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Published: April 28th 2023
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Figured it was about time that we shared a few words. We have been on the convoy trail for 12 days now and I have something to say. I know, Frenchy probably wouldn’t sanction this conversation, but the backstory needs to start with a bit of history.
My name is Scout, and I am the lucky dog who was chosen to serve as the Emotional Support Animal (ESA) for my travel buddy. We are in this together, through thick and thin, through sunshine and rain and mostly just hanging every day doing normal things.
How did we ever end up driving across the country? The simple answer is that a single idea grew with ultra-planning, imagination, and a mission to talk about TAPS. Months ago, we started to plan the nationwide route. In each state we will connect with the State Veterans Affairs, and one of the branches of the military at a minimum.
So, between the both of us, we focused on packing, planning, and learning how to drive. Eventually I had to retire from the new driving gig. I could see over the steering wheel, but my legs couldn’t reach the pedals. I was so very
disappointed; until I wasn’t. Now, I can sleep during the ride and be all fresh and ready to play whenever we are done traveling for the day. Then I get to chase the ball and I gotta tell ya; I love that nerf ball shooter and have gotten decent about bringing the ball back, especially for treats!
Overall, I think Frenchy needed to talk about TAPS so much because she is so grateful for the people, programs and promised comfort and care for the Families of America's Fallen Heroes. I heard her mention that she so intensely wants the surviving families, friends, and battle buddies to always be supported and their loved ones to be remembered. I think being a Soldier can be rewarding, fun and always bordering on an adventure. But I have watched as my Soldier absolutely can’t forget. So many laughs with old military friends, the many stories that justify their existence and missions during the wars have brought daily struggle with mini demon creatures that mess with bits and pieces of the day.
Frenchy is my buddy, my friend and of course, my responsibility. We were matched mostly because of our energy and willingness
to live out loud. She really tries to be very protective of me as well. She seems to think that I need a helmet and goggles when we ride on the scooter. An absolute disaster when she first showed me how to wear the goggle contraption. I could not move, I was frozen, and all because everything was so lopsided. This entire “dress your puppy” up game really isn't for me. Even before our first scooter ride, the goggles somehow got teeth marks and were not usable anymore! Oh darn!
I often wonder what she thinks about during our rides. As her buddy, I try to connect with her deep thoughts and many times she is just wondering where our next selfie will be. For goodness sakes. Enough with the pictures. Only because it makes her laugh and laugh and laugh. So many people say how cute I am while we are doing these ridiculous stunts. Ugh. While I was sitting on the back of the train, she was begging me to bark “choo-choo”. I did not, as I am a much more dignified pup. However, our dear friend Frenchy made many attempts at “choo-choo” with her foreign voice
accent combined with one of those noises from the kids pull the string farm animal games. She does live out loud and it can be a hoot to watch her act out what actions I should be taking.
I believe that after she retired from the Army National Guard, she just added energy and a deep seeded calling to “Never Forget”. I have heard her mention that knowing the surviving families has been a complete blessing in her life. She definitely carries the responsibility that comes along with always remembering. The story never changes. The outcome stays the same. But I really believe that when she speaks about, “maybe if we can connect with just one more,” she believes that everybody cares, and you just have to continuously look for the good. Eyes wide open about the enormous size of this mission, she might keep driving until the message stops calling. Gonna need more treats!
Her position as the military liaison for TAPS provides an outlet to tell a story and find connections in the world of military casualty and veteran service organizations. This motivates the extrovert and calms the inside of that busy head. We will continue
to share and give hugs and puppy licks every once in a while!
I am Scout. I will stay next to my best buddy for this journey. We will laugh, play, and talk about whatever comes up. We will live out loud, telling the message that military loss survivors are precious and are your neighbors, your friends, your family and should have a very special place in our everyday. When we remember the Fallen, we show respect to the family and honor for their loved one’s service to our country.
God Speed and hang on for the ride!
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