Vigil for USMC Sgt. Nicole Gee

On Wednesday, September 1, LCC Kare 9 Military Ministry Dogs Micah (Light of the Valley - Elk Grove, California), Rahab (St. Andrews - Stockton, California), and Reuben (First Lutheran - Yuba City, California) and their veteran handlers Susan Mason, Michael Rehbein, and James Casner, attended the vigil held by the community of Roseville, California, for one of their own. USMC Sgt Nicole Gee was one of the brave service members tragically killed last weekend in Kabul, Afghanistan.

The city of Roseville, Combat Veterans Association, American Legion, VFW, and many people from surrounding communities joined together at this public vigil to honor USMC Sgt Nicole Gee.

Over a thousand people, many of them veterans, joined together to share their pain, anger, and tears. Many of those who attended were marines and combat veterans who felt drawn to be there to honor one of their own.

The Kare 9s were present to bring comfort to those who were hurting this terrible loss. James Casner shared how he saw the change as some of the people petted the Comfort Dogs. Their bodies would become more relaxed as they slumped over to take comfort from petting Micah, Rahab, and Reuben. The sadness and anger etched in their faces softened just by the nearness and touch of the dogs. The handlers listened to them share their pain, anger, and confusion with warm smiles and listening hearts.

Marilyn Hunter shared that a woman's face was weighed down with grief and tears when they first saw her, but after being surrounded by Comfort Dogs Micah, Rahab, and Reuben, her face was dramatically different. A smile of joy softened her face as she was surrounded by love and comfort.

 "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Revelations 21:4

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