Singer Gavin DeGraw Surprises US Soldiers with Rescue Pets
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Gavin DeGraw teams up with Paws of War to reunite soldiers with pets they've connected with while on deployment.
Reuniting Soldiers with Pets
The nonprofit organization Paws of War aims to reunite service members with the dogs and cats they've connected with while on deployment. The organization also matches service dogs with veterans. For many U.S. military members, the love of a pet is the best Christmas gift of all. Whether it's a furry friend they've found overseas or a service animal that helps them after their military duty has ended, the companionship provided by these animals is invaluable.
Paws of War recently surprised two soldiers at a special holiday event in New York City by gifting them their very own pups. Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Gavin DeGraw, who comes from a military family, partnered with Paws of War to emphasize the importance of serving our country and bonding with pets. Before his performance, DeGraw presented the soldiers with their special Christmas gifts.
A Heartwarming Reunion
U.S. Army Air Defense Officer First Lt. Alyse Schnurr was one of the soldiers who received a surprise pet. Schnurr found her dog, Kucik, while she was on deployment and sought the assistance of Paws of War to bring the pup home. The moment DeGraw carried Kucik on stage during the event was an emotional one for Schnurr. She expressed her joy at being reunited with her furry friend, recalling the fond memories they shared while she was away from friends and family.
Army Lt. Schnurr is based out of Kentucky's Fort Campbell and described her nine-month deployment as quite challenging. The limited amenities in the place she lived made her bond with Kucik even more special. She eagerly looks forward to going home to Kucik and having a few more comforts this time.
From Service to Companionship
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Matt Brustein was the other soldier surprised with a pet. Brustein, who served for over eight years with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, struggled with severe PTSD after leaving the military. He qualified to receive a service animal, and Paws of War made it possible for him to meet Sadie, his service dog. Brustein described the pairing as a match made in heaven and spoke excitedly about the activities they will enjoy together, such as hiking and running.
Both Schnurr and Brustein expressed their gratitude to Paws of War for the support and love they have shown. They credited the organization with improving their quality of life and expressed their appreciation for the unexpected gifts. Grammy-nominated singer Gavin DeGraw, who helped facilitate this heartwarming reunion, hoped that organizations like Paws of War can bridge the gap and bring Americans together by showcasing the gentleness and humanity of soldiers.
