A stray dog who comforted soldiers overseas has been taken in as part of the family and given a forever home with one of the troops.
The three-legged mixed breed named Duke began rooting around the US Army base in Kosovo in 2021, in search of food and drink.
His regular visits and wagging tail soon became the highlight of the soldiers' days, bringing them comfort far from home.
Sergeant Kelsey formed an especially strong bond with the homeless pup and was determined to get Duke a better life, out of danger.
Staff at New York-based organisation, Paws of War, committed to help bring Duke to America, so he and the sergeant could be together once more.
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But before Duke could be safely transported to his new adoptive home in the US, disaster struck.
He stopped appearing at the base and soldiers searched for him for several days.
They feared the worst, before they finally spotting him cowered under a table with a bullet wound.
Duke had been shot and was bleeding badly.
Paws of War sent out an emergency veterinary team to save his life.
Vets discovered the bullet had shattered a bone in his leg and he was suffering from a painful skin condition.
Paws of War's long-time overseas rescue partner, The Alamal Foundation, provided a medical placement for Duke while he healed.
For six months, Duke recovered and soldiers wished for his well-being.
Finally, after extensive surgery, Duke rebuilt his muscle strength and was able to stand again.
Soon he was playing with other dogs and taking walks.
Duke is now ready for the next part of his journey and will be travelling to America in the next month, where Sgt. Kelsey will greet him with open arms.
Sgt. Kelsey said: "The entire Army unit is so excited that Duke is coming home. This is the moment we've prayed for."
Staff at The Alamal Foundation threw Duke a farewell party to say goodbye, attended by everyone who assisted in his rehabilitation.
Duke enjoyed dog-friendly celebration cake with party hats and oodles of well wishes.
Paws of War has now launched a campaign to help cover the cost of Duke’s flight to the U.S, as well as his lifetime medical care.
Dereck Cartright, a disabled veteran who works for Paws of War, said: "Everyone is thinking of our troops serving overseas right now and they want to help in some way.
"We absolutely want to put a smile on their faces and ensure they don’t have to worry about Duke surviving.
"We are happy to help them with this mission and hope that many people in the community will want to support it as well. We can’t do it without their support."
You can donate to Duke's campaign by visiting the Paws of War website.
Do you have a dog story to tell? Contact nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
