“A Heartbreaking Farewell: A Courageous Military Dog’s Final Goodbye Battling Cancer”
In a somber moment that brought tears to the eyes of many, a cancer-stricken hero, who valiantly served three tours in Afghanistan alongside the US Marines, was bid a heart-wrenching farewell in Michigan before being euthanized.
Cena, a 10-year-old black lab, received a hero’s send-off on Wednesday, just days after his owner, Lance Cpl. Jeff DeYoung, fulfilled a bucket list for his beloved companion, who was battling a terminal illness.
Hundreds of people gathered to pay their respects to Cena, who wore a decorated blue Marine vest, in Muskegon before he was euthanized at the USS LST 393 museum ship.
Amidst tears, DeYoung cradled Cena’s lifeless body, draped in a US flag, after the faithful canine was peacefully put to rest.
Cena, diagnosed with bone cancer just two weeks ago, had a remarkable history of service as a bomb-sniffing dog for the Marines until his retirement in 2014.
DeYoung, 27, had been paired with Cena during a combat tour in Afghanistan in 2009 and 2010. Following their military service, DeYoung adopted Cena, who became his loyal service dog, providing invaluable support for DeYoung’s battle with post-traumatic stress disorder.
“My whole adult life, I’ve had Cena,” DeYoung shared, his voice quivering with emotion. “When I was 19, overseas learning how to be responsible, I had Cena. And now I’m 27, and I’m having to say goodbye to one of the biggest pieces of my life.”
DeYoung recounted how Cena had been by his side through thick and thin, from carrying him across rivers to shielding him under heavy fire during combat with the Taliban. Cena not only kept DeYoung warm during cold desert nights but also provided solace when he lost several friends within three weeks. Their bond was unbreakable, forged in the crucible of war and unwavering loyalty.
Cena’s courageous service and unwavering devotion touched the lives of many, and his poignant farewell left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to witness it.
