JJ

JJ has become the perfect companion for Wayne Cline. Cline served in the Navy during Vietnam and then served in the Iowa Air Guard for 23 years. After several years of loss, he was needing the love and support of a special pup.

“I lost my wife in 2015 to cancer and then I lost my dog Buddy in 2021 to cancer. I was very lonely and depressed. Then I was fortunate to get JJ. She has filled a big hole in my life. I really love her very much, she is a real sweetheart.” -Wayne

JJ is named after John Joseph Krzyczkowski (1925-2002), an extraordinary man, husband, father, and grandfather. John was a member of the Air Force and served during WWII, and when his service was complete, he continued to serve his country as a firefighter, spending over 25 years with the Hamtramck Fire Department in Hamtramck, Michigan.

JJ (Buttercup) was donated by Hero Labradors.

MATTY

Matty was at home right away when she stepped into Kurt Steinke’s house for the very first time. Steinke has been with the City of Waukee Fire for nearly 30 years. He was looking to add to his small pack and Matty was just the perfect fit. Matty now enjoys her days with all the cuddles she can imagine from her human dad and siblings and throwing sticks to herself in the yard.

Matty is named after Matthew York. York served in the US Marines Corp 2005 to 2009, in the 3es Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion. After his time in the military, he studied Criminal Justice at Grand View College and graduated in 2005. He was hired on to the Polk County Sheriffs Department and promoted to Sargent in 2021. For over the last 10 years he has served as Commander for the American Legion Post #49. Matty is also in memory of Dennis York who served in the Army from 1969 to 1971, and Loren York who served in the Army during the WWII and Korean War.

Matty came from Wicked Wing Shed & Tracking Dogs

BLAZE

Blaze wormed his way into the hearts of Keith & Kay Acheson. He will get to enjoy his days being his goofy self and running around the many acres of land with his new friend, Sully, in West Des Moines. Keith was born and raised on a farm near Des Moines, Iowa. He attended a one-room country school (K-8). After college, he joined the Army and transferred to the Air Force after two years. He attended flight training and spent 25 years piloting jet fighter aircraft. Acheson is also a prideful member of Patriot Guard Riders of Iowa.

Blaze received his name in honor of Ralph J. Hickenbottom of Fairfield, Iowa. Ralph has shown his patriotism for this country both as a public servant and by supporting public and civil servants.

Ralph was a firefighter for the Fairfield Fire Department for 22 years. During that time, he served as a backup driver, a captain, the assistant fire chief, and the fire chief. In 2011, after being Fire Chief for eight years, his retirement was expedited by health issues.

Blaze (Yellow Male) is donated by Hero Labradors.