I adopted Blackie at the Long Beach area shelter in El Dorado park when they had a Veterans event many years ago. Free adoptions for Veterans and everything was taken care of. He was staring at me while waiting outside for them to open. Locked to the bars of that cage like, “get me outta here!”. I got to meet him and we were instantly bonded. He got his shots and he was neutered. We were the best of friends ever since. He was my boy.

We spent every day together. We played around and watched football together. We were inseparable. He was my best friend and a really good buddy. He defended me and genuinely cared for and about me, and I him. We celebrated Veterans Day together every year, except this one. He passed away on December 22, 2025. This is my first Veterans Day without him. It really sucks. He was taken too early. He didn’t deserve to be taken this early.

I will always remember Blackie. I carry my little Veterans Day miracles’ ashes in an empty round around my neck. I will always keep him close to my heart. He will never, ever be forgotten. He will live forever….

Eric