Soldiers are not alone in their foxhole during war. They are surrounded by fellow soldiers who provide support, company, and care for each other.

Jason Manley, President of Veteran Companion Animal Services, did not grow up with what many consider a traditional family. When he graduated high school in 2002 he decided to join the army to fill the gaps he felt were present in his life. He became good at war and was used to being away, so when it came time for Jason to go home after serving 8 years in Iraq and Afghanistan he found his foxhole empty. Jason had lost his friends, his rank, and his purpose. Struggling with chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) he began to visit dark places in his mind.

Searching for a way out, Jason went to the shelter to rescue a dog that could be his companion. A 1-year old boxer named Abraham Lincoln (“Abe”) ran straight for Jason when he walked through the doors and they had an immediate connection. Jason knew at that moment that Abe was his dog and his new purpose. Little did Jason know that Abe also had a purpose of his own. Abe climbed down in the foxhole with Jason and they developed an incredible bond. Abe always greeted Jason with enthusiasm. They would take daily walks and on days when Jason didn’t feel like walking, Abe would convince him otherwise. Jason realized that on these days Abe was taking care of him.