Marriage is a celebration of love and the unification of a perfect pair. And when it comes to planning a wedding, the details make it a day to remember. But the ceremony is about more than just the bride and groom-to-be—it also honors the most important and influential individuals who supported the couple all along.
So when it was time for US Army veteran Justin Landford to pick his best man, he didn’t think twice. His best friend Gabe would do the honors. Sure, most men choose their best friend to be the best man, so there’s no surprise there.
But then again, most men don’t have a dog for a best friend.
But this dynamic duo has a special connection and a story that can compete with any human friendship. After Justin had lost his leg in an IED explosion while serving as a paratrooper in Afghanistan, the veteran needed a helping hand (or paw). According to ABC News, that’s when he met his service dog Gabe through a program called the Warrior Canine Connection.
They became instant friends. Gabe was exactly the support that the veteran needed to keep pushing past the struggle.The service dog helps out with tasks like opening doors, grabbing objects, and helping Justin to stand up. But it’s not just the physical help that this veteran needed, Gabe also provides emotional comfort—by being a friend who’s there for him through thick and thin.
Gabe also shares a special story with the bride-to-be, Carol. The pup helped Justin propose to his fiancé by carrying a ring box in his mouth.
The dog has played a special part in their relationship ever since.
So it only made sense for the Gabe to be honored on their wedding day.
Gabe wore a tailored suit made from the veteran’s uniform as he stood at the head of the bridal party.
The wedding was beautiful–and Gabe was the perfect best man.
Justin explained, “It meant the world to have him next to me. He’s there for me all day, every day.”
The three now live as a happy family–loving and inseparable.
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