In 2012, Kyle Smith, a member of the United States Air Force, formed a deep and enduring bond with Bodza, his military working dog, during their deployment in Kyrgyzstan. Their close collaboration led to an unbreakable friendship, and when Bodza retired, Kyle didn’t hesitate to adopt his faithful compani on and provide him with a well-deserved retirement.

Over the years, Kyle and Bodza shared numerous cherished moments. However, at the age of 11, Bodza developed a degenerative condition that affected his spinal cord. When the time came to bid a tearful farewell to his beloved canine friend, Kyle was surprised to find his superiors at the veterinarian’s office, unexpectedly bearing an American flag. In a heartfelt gesture, Kyle draped the flag over Bodza, honoring the former military dog.

Reflecting on the emotional day, Kyle expressed his gratitude, saying, “For these guys to do this for a dog they’ve never even met… That day, he had a beautiful send-off.”

Describing his special bond with Bodza, Kyle shared, “My favorite thing about him was he didn’t care what you were doing; he just wanted to be there doing it with you. We all have that one dog who is exceptionally dear to us.”

Recalling the significant moments they shared, Kyle explained, “I got married with this dog, I got divorced with this dog. I’m expecting a son, and the most heartbreaking part is that I wish he was younger so my son could play with him. He was the sweetest dog in the world.”