When 20-year-old Marine Corps Private First Class Colton W. Rusk served overseas in Afghanistan, his military working dog, Eli was always by his side. Eli had to sleep in Rusk’s cot every night and he was always part of the conversation when Rusk called home. During a fateful firefight on December 6, 2010 Rusk was killed in combat. Fellow Marines said that Eli heroically stayed by Rusk’s side and crawled on top of his body to shield him from harm.
Afterwards, Rusk’s family stayed in touch with Rusk’s fellow Marines and asked after Eli and the following year, the Marine Corps granted the adoption of Eli by the Rusk’s parents, Kathy and Darrell. The 4-year-old Labrador retriever retired and was presented to Rusk’s family during a special ceremony.
The video below is the first time Pfc Rusk’s mom, dad and brothers meet Eli and it’s an emotional moment.
“I know that Colton passed his love on to this dog, and that’s why he’s so loving,” Kathy said. “He’ll just be one of us, part of the family.” She promised they will share the love they have for their son with Eli.
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