When Spc. Michael Steponovich left the US Army, one of the hardest things he had to do was say goodbye to his partner for 18 months. Popeye, a seven-year-old German Shepherd, was his constant companion when he was stationed in South Korea.
Being far from home, the bomb-sniffing dog was the closest thing he got to family. They developed a strong and special bond, one that is impossible to forget.
That is why when Popeye retired, having the dog come and live with him forever made Michael so happy. And the retired K9 certainly feels the same way.
Separated
Michael said that when he left the army, he didn’t know if he would ever see his partner ever again. He kept on thinking about the dog after that. He was always wondering whether he was doing fine and if he was being treated well. He brought the bond that they shared into his civilian life.
But their separation would not last long. Five months after Michael retired, Popeye followed suit. After his stint in South Korea, the dog went to several bases across the globe and ended his tour in Las Vegas. Incidentally, that is where Michael was residing.
An American company named American Humane, dedicated to the welfare of animals, learned about the relationship between the veteran and the army K9 and took the steps to reunite them. After doing a lot of paperwork, a rendezvous was set up.
Reunited
When the dog saw his former partner, he immediately got excited. he recognized his voice right away and rushed to the human’s arms and hugged him. It was evident that the dog missed the veteran as he nuzzled his head against Michael.
He became emotional as well. They have worked long hours before in service, having only each other. Now they are back together and Michael plans to give him a well-deserved relaxing life.
Photo source: American Humane
