Dogs are often known as “man’s best friend,” but sometimes, they become something even more special. For one veteran, his service dog was not just his companion; he became the best man at his wedding! This touching story shows the strong bond between a soldier who was hurt in war and his loyal service dog.
A Life-Changing Accident and a New Friend
Justin Lansford, a veteran from Silver Spring, Maryland, served as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army in Afghanistan in 2012. His life changed dramatically when his vehicle hit an improvised explosive device (IED).
“We struck an IED, and it flipped my truck completely,” Justin recalled in an interview. Because of the explosion, Justin had serious injuries, and doctors had to amputate (remove) his left leg.
While recovering from this difficult event, Justin found hope and comfort through an organization called Warrior Canine Connections. This group helps wounded soldiers by matching them with service dogs, providing support and friendship. Justin was paired with Gabe, a golden retriever who became more than just a helper—he became Justin’s closest friend.
Gabe: A Lifesaver in More Ways Than One
Gabe quickly showed how important he was to Justin as he learned to live with his injury. Gabe wasn’t just trained to help with physical tasks; he was also there for emotional support.
“The less I use my wheelchair, the more I need his help with smaller tasks, and the more he is there,” Justin explained. “He helps me move from one thing to the next. I can lean on him to get up if I fall. If I’m on the ground, he comes running, and I can use him to push off and stand up.”
Gabe was more than just a helper. He became a true friend and provided emotional support, which was just as important for Justin’s recovery. “Since day one, we’ve been joined at the hip,” Justin shared. “He’s there for me all day, every day.”
A Bond Everyone Could See
Gabe’s impact wasn’t just noticed by Justin; his girlfriend Carol also saw it. Carol worked for Warrior Canine Connections and witnessed the special connection between Justin and Gabe.
She remembered how Gabe immediately bonded with Justin when they first met: “The second Justin walked into the room, Gabe was wiggling, crying, and rolling on the floor,” she told Buzzfeed. “You have to make sure a support dog is always happy and will love the person they’re with forever.”
Their bond was so strong that when Justin and Carol started planning their wedding, they knew Gabe had to be part of it.
The Wedding: A Best Man Like No Other
In 2015, Justin and Carol got married, and Gabe was not just going to be a guest—he was going to be the best man. “He goes everywhere I go,” Justin told the Daily News. “He’s always there to support me emotionally, so why would the wedding be any different?”
Carol agreed completely. “Justin and Gabe go everywhere together, and our wedding didn’t seem like it should be any different,” Carol said. “He is a huge part of our life and deserves to share the moment with us.”
Gabe stood by Justin’s side during the wedding ceremony, fulfilling his role as best man with calmness and grace. “It was really cool to have him right by me,” Justin said. “I don’t think there was a dry eye at that point. It was a steady ‘aww’ throughout the whole wedding.”
More Than Just a Pet
Weddings are usually times to be with people who have been important in our lives. For Justin, it made perfect sense for Gabe, who had been by his side through all the tough times, to stand beside him on his happiest day.
Gabe’s presence was more than just a sweet gesture; it showed the deep bond between a man and his service dog.
The story of Justin and Gabe is a powerful reminder of the strong relationships we can form with animals. Dogs can be more than pets; they can be true companions who stay with us through thick and thin. For Justin, Gabe was not just a friend—he was family.
Conclusion: The Unbreakable Bond
Justin Lansford’s story shows how a service dog can become much more than a helper. Gabe wasn’t just there for Justin in difficult moments; he became his constant source of strength and happiness. Their story is one of resilience, healing, and the amazing power of friendship.
In the end, Gabe was not just Justin’s best friend—he was his best man in every sense of the word. This heartwarming tale shows that sometimes, the love and loyalty of a dog can be one of the greatest gifts life can offer.
If you were getting married, would you consider having your pet as your best man or maid of honor? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this heartwarming story with your family and friends.
