U.S. Lance Corporal Tommie Johnson was in Krtsanisi, Georgia when the pandemic hit. He was supposed to go home after serving his duty but his departure was delayed due to travel constraints. He and the rest of the U.S. servicemen couldn’t do anything about it.
For the next few weeks they have dreamt of their families and homes and the monotonous routine made them even more homesick. Because of this, the morale in their base dropped significantly.
According to Tommie, everyone was getting tired of doing the same thing over and over again. They couldn’t even leave the base for entertainment.
New purpose
Things changed when Tommie and some of his fellow Marines found six homeless puppies by a road near their base. They were barely six months old and they were not in good condition. The weather was freezing and they had barely anything to eat. One of them was also injured.
They think that she has been hit by a car as she had a broken leg and fractured hip. At that time though, it was healing already. According to a vet, they had to watch over her constantly to make sure that the injury was healing properly.
Aside from that, the pups were suffering from heartworm and needed treatment.
Having to constantly care for the dogs gave the marines a new purpose. These helped lift their mood and have something new to focus on.
Each of the pups found their owners and formed a bond with them. Tommie was attached to the injured dog. He named her Blessing after someone said that it was a blessing that the puppy survived.
Going home
Tommy and the rest of the marines knew that they wouldn’t be able to take the pups with them when they go home. Regulations prohibited dogs inside official transportation. Thankfully, an organization specializing in these types of situations was there to help them.
They took care of all the papers and requirements. And in time, the six pups traveled to the U.S. where their dads were waiting for them.
When she got off the plane, Blessing instantly recognized Tommie. She was still inside the crate when she started to become excited.
When she was finally let out, she instantly jumped on his dad. The two hugged and shared a very heartfelt moment. Blessing is now living happily in Hapeville, Georgia, where Tommie and his family reside.
Photo source: @spca_international