Military canines have played an important role in the United States Armed Forces since the dawn of time.

They’ve been trained to carry out essential tasks that have saved the lives of military and civilian personnel. Because of the crucial service they provide to the country, they are regarded as heroes in their own right.

Joe confesses, “She still likes to nibble on my thumbs.” Just as before, the dog jumps on his chest to kiss him. Tess’ muzzle had grayed, but she remained the same dog Joe had grown to know and love in Afghanistan.

The process of bringing Tess home, however, was far from simple, requiring enormous amounts of paperwork and assistance from family, friends, NGOs, and U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski’s office.

Stephanie, Joe’s wife, has been instrumental in procuring Tess for adoption. She claims she’s been hearing stories about the dog since she and Joe began dating years ago. That’s when she realized how essential Tess was in Joe’s life, and it motivated her to start the years-long process of reuniting the two veterans.

The couple’s and everyone else’s efforts were all worthwhile because they were able to bring Tess back home with them.

“Looking at her right now, it feels like it’s been a lifetime, but it also feels like it was just yesterday that I said goodbye to her,” Joe said of his reunion with Tess. “I know she’ll be in a wonderful home with people who adore her from now until the end of time.” I’m just happy to see her again.”

Joe has post-traumatic stress disorder, and Stephanie has already seen Tess’ influence on her family. She adds that her husband has been sleeping much better since Tess moved in with them. Joe agrees.

“Just having her around, being able to say, ‘Hey come here, Mama,’ and then hear her collar jingle all the way towards me, and how she still gets happy when she sees me, and everything like that,” he stated.

Tess has settled in nicely, according to the Steenbekes. The pair said they are looking forward to providing her with the greatest retirement possible. She certainly deserves it! Tess, a dog that served in the military, has been working hard since she was a puppy. She may now relax and enjoy life like an ordinary dog.

The pair’s reunion story is very touching. Tess and Joe make each other happy, and they are definitely better together, as evidenced by their expressions.