In many parts of the world, stray dogs, sadly, run rampant. Many travelers do what they can and what the laws allow. Often, it’s an uphill battle and the strays are left behind. This story is different. It tells the story of a dog who refused to be left behind by a man he loved so much, inspired by the Latin phrase of the Army Rangers: no man left behind.
When Marine Major Brian Dennis was stationed in Iraq, he met a stray dog who immediately stole his heart. The dog was named “Nubs” because his ears had been cut off. Rumor has it that an Iraqi soldier cut them off so he would look tougher— a cruel act that infuriated the American soldiers. Major Dennis and Nubs became best friends. They spent time together developing a truly special bond but then, sadly, Major Dennis received new orders and he had to leave.
Major Dennis was re-stationed over 70 miles away near the border. He said goodbye to his friend Nubs and his heart ached. As he drove off in the Humvee, Nubs could be seen trailing behind, chasing the vehicle. The sight was heartbreaking.
But Major Dennis knew that Nubs would grow tired and go back to his stray dog friends. Likely never seeing the dog again.
Then a fellow marine came to Major Dennis with a huge smile on his face. He said that Dennis had a special visitor. And wouldn’t you know that it was NUBS! He made the entire 70-mile journey on foot to be with his best friend.
That is when Major Dennis decided he would do everything in his power to adopt the dog so they would never be apart again. Their story is beautiful, poignant and touching. It has since been made into a best selling book that chronicles their incredible journey together.
