In Michigan, a large crowd came together to bid an emotional farewell to a brave dog named Cena, who had bravely served alongside the US Marines in Afghanistan on three separate occasions. Cena, a 10-year-old black lab, received a touching hero’s send-off before being peacefully put to sleep and carried away in a casket draped in a flag at the USS LST 393, a historic museum ship in Muskegon.
Recently diagnosed with terminal bone cancer, Cena, a former Marine bomb-sniffer, retired in 2014 after serving his country. His owner, Jeff Young, who was paired with Cena during their time in Afghanistan in 2009 and 2010, organized a special celebration for the loyal dog. Young adopted Cena in 2014 and trained him to be his service dog to help with his own post-traumatic stress disorder.
DeYoung expressed, “Cena has been by my side ever since I became an adult.” He further added, “I got Cena when I was 19 and was still figuring out how to navigate life in a foreign land.” At 27, DeYoung is now facing the heartbreaking reality of saying farewell to his beloved companion who has been a significant part of his life for years. DeYoung recounted moments where he had to carry Cena across rivers and shield him from Taliban gunfire. He also mentioned how Cena provided warmth on cold desert nights and offered comfort when DeYoung mourned the loss of seven comrades in just three weeks.
To mark the occasion, DeYoung decided to take his pup on a final journey in a convertible Jeep emblazoned with the words “Cancer Response Team.” He originally just wanted to borrow a Jeep for a day, but it turned into a touching tribute from the community to show their love and support for his furry friend. DeYoung expressed his gratitude for all the love and support they have received, which his dog can both see and feel.
The ceremony was attended by a mix of organizations including the US Marine Corps League, Michigan State Police, Muskegon County Sheriff’s Office, Muskegon City Police, Muskegon Fire Department, and officers from other departments. Even a canine officer named Rex paid his respects. The attendees paid tribute to Cena with a final three-volley salute as he wore a special blue Marine vest, while the mournful tune of “Taps” echoed in the background. “We say goodbye to another Marine with heavy hearts, Lord,” said chaplain Wesley Spyke in a prayer to the gathered crowd.
A fundraising initiative on GoFundMe has been set up to raise funds for a headstone in honor of Cena. The individual behind the campaign expressed the belief that every military dog that has served abroad deserves the same recognition, if not even more.
