In life, we make friends as we go. Those friends rarely stick with us forever. When you reunite with your best friends, however, it always seems like you were never away to begin with. That’s how you know the mark of a true friend.
Matthew Kropp served in the U.S. Army during the Iraq War in 2011.
After his tour, Matthew decided he would take a job at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad a few years later in 2014. During his time on tour and at the embassy, Matthew made a friend that he would never forget – Tina!
Tina wasn’t a love interest for Matthew; she was a German Shepherd!
During her service, Tina helped Matthew find and disarm explosives and kept them from entering the embassy. Since their life was tougher than most, their bond was especially unique. Difficult situations make the best friends.
Matthew knew that he wouldn’t be able to make it if it wasn’t for Tina.
Through their years, it was clear to Matthew that Tina’s help was more than just a service, they had become friends.
“Without her, I wouldn’t be able to live,” said Matthew.
In 2017, however, it was time for a change.
Wanting to keep the sharpest dogs and men in the line of duty, Tina was sent home in 2017. She was getting older, and it was time for her to retire. Matthew stayed in Iraq for a while longer but without his friend.
On a visit back to the U.S., Matthew traveled to Pennsylvania and knew what he needed to do.
His family lived in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, and while he was visiting, he reached out to a nearby organization for help. K9 Hero Haven is based out of Herndon, PA, and adopts and finds families for retired veteran dogs. If anyone was going to be able to help, it was them.
Anne Gibbs, the director of Hero Haven, finally found Tina.
After some time looking, Anne was able to locate Tina and let Matthew know. Incredibly, they were able to plan a reunion a year later when Matthew came back.
Fast forward, and Matthew is standing at the Country Cupboard restaurant in Lewisburg, PA, waiting with news teams for the reunion.
There was a definitive air of nervousness in the atmosphere as they waited. Matthew wasn’t certain if Tina would remember him or even care!
“I’m hoping that she’s excited and that she remembers me. That’s what I’m really hoping for,” said Kropp
When she finally came through the door, it was everything he hoped it would be.
Running up to him and jumping under his chin, Tina was just as happy to see Matthew as he was to see her! Squirming around and getting all the belly rubs the could, Tina was as happy as could be.
Matthew had the moment he always dreamed of.
It was a picture-perfect moment that might even bring a tear to your eye! Tina has doubtlessly saved Matthew’s life, and he is honored to have served with her.
Check out the video below!
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