The 10-year-old Cena, a military dog in the U.S. Army, was given a well-deserved military send-off.
His farewell was indeed worthy of a king
The dog, who served three tours in Afghanistan, was sent off to his next life in a ceremony at the USS LST 933 Museum in Muskegon, Michigan.
In attendance were more than 100 people, 30 jeeps and 30 motorcycles decorated with about 35 U.S. flags in the dog’s honor.
Cena had been diagnosed with bone cancer.
Lance Corporal Jeff DeYoung, his faithful companion during his 9-month deployment in Afghanistan, wanted to give him as special a farewell as possible.
Dog saves soldier’s life
A deep friendship developed between the soldier and the bomb-sniffing dog. Jeff carried the dog across rivers while it warmed him at night.
Jeff even protected Cena from Taliban gunfire. When Jeff lost 7 of his best friends in just 3 weeks, it was Cena who stood by his side and comforted him.
Even four years after this mission, the two were inseparable.
In fact, Cena was Jeff’s therapy dog for many years, helping the former Marine overcome his post-traumatic stress.
„I’ve been with Cena my whole adult life. When I was 19, he taught me what it means to take responsibility.
Now I’m 27 and I have to say goodbye to one of the most important parts of my life.
This dog saved my life. I trusted him more than I trust most people.“
jeff told NBC’s Nightly News.
Sad fate leaves no one cold
Jeff wanted to give Cena one last ride in a Jean Wranger. But members of the Patriot Guard Riders refused to leave him and the dog alone.
So 30 jeeps and 30 motorcycles also bid farewell to Cena. Another dog also took part in this emotional moment – the K9 dog Rex.
A farewell that left no eye dry
Jeff wore his uniform for official occasions – and Cena was also dressed in a uniform specially tailored for him.
After his family had also said goodbye to him, Cena was put to sleep.
Jeff will never forget Cena – especially the little things like the silly look on his face when Jeff opened a bag of chips.
