15 years ago this August you were brought into my home, this tinny little brown ball of flees and dirt. we gave you a bath washed your white fur and named you duchess. you were always there for me, though broken hearts you consoled me, when i was getting in shape for the Marine Core you motivated me by keeping just ahead of me, when i returned from service on leave and ultimately to civilian life you were there to greet me with a wagging tail, and as we got older your energy waned until ultimately you were just a sleepy old dog. and when you fell this last time I knew you would never get up. I failed you by having to audacity to wish you would get better so we could keep you a little while longer, all the while your pain got worse and worse. I think you feared being alone the most, and I failed you in that because I fared what had to come sooner rather than later. so after we dug your grave I sat with you to let you know how much I and the rest of your family love you. and as you looked at me that one last time I knew you were ready. I pet you and waited till you looked away before placing my pistol to the back of your head. My tears fell with the hammer and you were gone, and now I need your ability to make my sorrow go away more than ever... We buried you under those pine trees you liked so much so you can watch the sunset.

I will forever miss you..
my dog..
my friend.