George HW Bush's Former Service Dog Shares Touching Tribute to Late President on Memorial Day
George H.W. Bush’s former service dog, Sully, posed at the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., as a way to pay tribute to the late president on Memorial Day.
“Always thinking of my best friend & the bravest military in the world ?? who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending our country for our freedoms,” the photo’s caption on Instagram read, along with a quote from the late president:
“Each of the patriots whom we remember on this day was first a beloved son or daughter, a brother or sister, or a spouse, friend, and neighbor.”
Sully, a yellow Labrador retriever, gained national attention when he was assigned to H.W. Bush during the last few months of the president’s life.
When the young service dog joined the Bush family, he came fully trained and ready to serve, thanks to the non-profit organization, America’s VetDogs.
Sully remained faithfully by the side of the 41st President of the United States until H.W. Bush‘s death on Nov. 30, 2018.
The dog’s service to the president was cemented in a powerful photo of Sully lying solemnly in front of H.W. Bush’s casket along with the caption, “Mission Complete.”
In the months following H.W. Bush’s death, Sully said goodbye to the Bush family and prepared for the next chapter of his life.
The pup now serves with a team of rehabilitation dogs at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, bringing comfort and joy to veterans.
Former President George W. Bush put his stamp of approval on the decision to relocate Sully, telling NBC News that the parting was bittersweet.
“As much as our family is going to miss this dog, we’re comforted to know he’ll bring the same joy to his new home, Walter Reed (National Military Medical Center), that he brought to 41,” he said.
You can follow Sully’s current work with veterans on his Instagram account, @sullyhwbush.
Truth and Accuracy
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.
