This Veteran Service Dog From Canada Has Just Been Awarded An Honorary Lifetime Membership In Local Legion - And We're Living For It

Nov 28, 2018

Branch 13 of the Royal Canadian Legion in Corner Brook, Newfoundland got a little bit bigger earlier this year when it bestowed an honorary lifetime membership on a dog.

The dog, Spark, is not your typical furry friend, however, she’s a service dog. Spark’s owner, Mike Rude, is a veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, more typically known as PTSD.

Spark and Rude were the focus of a public outcry when the duo was told to leave the Valley Mall after employees doubted Spark’s status as a service dog.

While a difficult experience for Rude, it nevertheless resulted in calls for more awareness for those who suffer from PTSD and greater understanding for the role of service animals in treatment programs.

Rude and Spark's experience caught the attention of Branch 13-member Greg Schroh. Schroh previously served with Lord Strathcona’s horse regiment as a mechanic in Edmonton. Although having never served overseas, Schroh says he has seen the toll PTSD takes on his friends and family. Schroh thought long and hard about Rude’s experience at the Valley Mall and determined that a great wrong was done to the veteran and his canine companion.

Schroh determined that Spark’s number one mission is to protect Rude and, as Rude’s right hand, she deserved a place in the Canadian Legion. Before the incident, Spark had been a welcomed guest at the Legion, joining Rude and other veterans in bingo games. Despite being a regular guest of the Legion, Schroh felt that Spark deserved a special recognition for the role she plays in Rude’s life.

Schroh believes that one of the biggest challenges those who fight for our freedom endure is the silence they face from the world. Schroh feels that it is the duty of the world to acknowledge and recognize the sacrifice these men and women have made to preserve our way of life, telling reporters, “The actual world has to take recognition to what these men and women are doing for our freedom.”

Schroh made his feelings known to the Legion executive and an honorary lifetime membership was quickly bestowed upon Spark. As part of her membership, Spark will always be welcome at the Legion branch. In a special ceremony, Rude accepted Spark’s membership certificate.

Prior to the ceremony, Rude had conflicting feelings as he had just learned that the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary would not be charging anyone in connection with the incident. With his loyal companion by his side, an emotional Rude told onlookers that he couldn’t bear to go through another bad experience with Spark.

Thanking his fellow members, Rude said that he and Spark have always felt at home with the Legion. Rude also thanked his wife, Elaine Kearney, for continuing to fight for him even when the struggle was too great. Schroh, who also took part in the ceremony, embraced Rude, saying that he was honored to be part of the event.

What do you think of Rude and Spark's experience? Do service animals play a part in your life or the lives of your friends and family members? Let us know in the comments - and don't forget to share!