National Military Appreciation Month: LCC Kare 9 Mary & Veteran Tyler Morehead

LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dog Mary and her veteran handler, Tyler Morehead, are from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Janesville, Wisconsin.

Tyler served in the United States Army Reserve as Specialist, Military Occupational Specialty – Military Police from 2016 to 2021. He served both in the United States and Saudi Arabia.

Tyler joined Mary’s ministry team at St. Paul’s in February 2019.

Tyler recalls special moments with Kare 9 Mary while serving with other Kare 9 handlers at Camp Hometown Heroes in Wisconsin, a week-long overnight summer camp for children and siblings of fallen U.S. Service Members. “Just being able to talk with people close to my age range who had those crazy events happen and provide comfort by talking and listening; I do think my age helped a little just because it’s usually easier to open up to someone close to your age.” With Kare 9 Mary serving as a bridge, Tyler connected with campers, provided comfort and friendship, and helped them process their sadness

During the challenging times of COVID-19, Tyler deployed overseas, serving for a year in Saudi Arabia, returning home in March 2021. He took with him a mini stuffed Mary as a reminder that the K-9 Ministry team at St. Paul’s was praying every day for his safety and the safety of those he served with. It also gave him an opportunity to share with his fellow Army reservists the ministry to veterans he does back home with Kare 9 Mary.

The LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry thanks Tyler for his dedication and compassionate ministry to those who have given so much, and for his service to our great nation – Hooah!