Matthew Kropp of Shenandoah is an Iraq War veteran who has been serving the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad since 2014. He was assisted in his duties by a trained military working dog – a German Shepherd named Tina. Together, they would prevent explosives and other harmful materials from entering the embassy.

In 2017, Tina was retired and sent back to the US. That’s when Matthew realized how much he missed the special bond he had with her. So, when he returned back to his family, the first thing on his mind was to go looking for Tina.

His search attempts led him to an organization called K9 Hero Haven, based out of Herndon, PA, that adopts and places retired military dogs. Run by Anne Gibbs, they have reached out to over 200 working dogs since 2015. Matthew’s efforts paid off, and soon, a grand reunion was arranged. Amidst all the camera and flashing lights, Matthew’s nervousness was evident. “I’m hoping that she remembers me. That’s what I’m really hoping for,” Kropp told WNEP.

But Tina remembered him! And how! She charged up to him and laid lots of face licks and got lots of belly rubs. Matthew has formally adopted Tina as a family pet and his wife and two kids are over the moon!

Matthew must go back to Iraq in a few weeks, so this was the perfect Christmas present for him! Tina is transitioning to retirement life smoothly. Matthew and his family remain grateful to K9 Hero Haven and wish them well for their noble efforts.