Help Bring Marines' Dog To U.S.
Donations Can Help Bring Marines' Dog To U.S.
Local Unit Befriends Dog Named Beans
UPDATED: 12:55 pm EDT August 11, 2005
AKRON, Ohio -- Across northeast Ohio, families are looking to the day when they welcome the troops back home to the U.S.
But Cleveland television station WEWS reported that Marines from the unit that has already sacrificed so much this past week are hoping to bring back something else with them -- a very special dog.
Covering the fence at the Marine Reserve Headquarters are dozens of intimate messages of support, encouragement and grief, testament to the strength of the military community.
There is a tremendous support mechanism for the families that have lost someone and for the family that is grieving.
But for those who are still in Iraq, a different support mechanism has been chosen in the form of a mixed breed pup named Beans.
Beans, who is so named because he was purchased for the price of three jelly beans, has become the unit mascot and has become important to the Marines who are trying to cope with their losses.
"He's their constant companion. A lot of these guys aren't talking about anything right now since they've lost so many out of their unit, and this dog is their confidant. They can talk to him and he's not talking to anyone else," said Rachel Salzer.
Salzer's family is leading an effort to bring Beans back to the U.S. They have permission, but it's an expensive proposition.
"The dog has to be quarantined in Iraq before it's allowed to be sent home, and then he'll have to be quarantined once he reaches the States to make sure he's disease-free, and then he'll be able to live over here," said Salzer.
Families are looking forward to the day when their sons and daughters will come home, but for the Marines themselves, bringing Beans along with them means a lot.
Right now, the dog is a tangible link to home.
"They've left family and friends behind, and their pets. So, they finally have something to hold onto," said Salzer.
If you'd like to help in the effort to bring Beans to the United States, call Jennifer Salzer at (330) 358-1739.
An fund has also been set up with Key Bank. Donations can be made to the Beans Foundation at any branch.
To find out more about how you can help assist other animals like Beans, visit Militarymascots.org.
