After his human is killed in combat, this military dog gets an adoption surprise that will leave you in tears

It always gives me chills to think of how amazingly dogs and humans work together in various law enforcement and military capacities, combining forces to keep their communities safe while developing unbreakable bonds with one another.

Still, with bravery sometimes comes sadness and sacrifice. That’s the case with US Marine Corps Colton W. Rusk’s story. Private First Class Rusk was an experienced military dog handler who died in combat in 2010 while serving in Afghanistan. As you can imagine, Rusk and his infantry explosives detector dog Eli were very close. Rusk’s death left his family and friends reeling, and that included his four-legged best friend Eli, who had been with him through everything.

The video below shows the incredible moment Private Rusk’s parents, Darrell and Kathy Rusk of Orange Grove, Texas, officially take on their son’s fur baby as their own. The Marine Corps officially approved the Rusks’ adoption of Eli, and Kathy Rusk tearfully smiles at how familiar the pup already seems with his new family. Such a beautiful story of a shared love that lives on even after one brave man is gone.

Not gonna lie…I definitely teared up during that one. It’s so beautiful to see this family, still clearly grieving, channel the love they have for their son into welcoming Eli into their family. And adorable Eli, who has also lost a family member, being comforted by people who knew his human best. So heartwarming. Let us know your thoughts!

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