Officer Mike Thompson stood tall and proud. Badge gleaming. Smile bright. His K9 partner Rex cradled in his arms like a baby.
It was a beautiful photo. But behind that smile lay a story that would break hearts across the nation.
This wasn’t just any photo shoot. This was their last day together. Rex’s last day on Earth.
After 8 years of service. After countless lives saved. After becoming more than just a partner – becoming family. Rex had been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Mike carried him everywhere those final days. To the park where they trained. To the beach where they played. To all Rex’s favorite spots.
“He carried me through the darkest times,” Mike said. “The least I can do is carry him through his.”
That morning, they took one last patrol. One last ride in the squad car. One last walk through the precinct. Where every officer stood at attention. Saluting not just a K9 officer. But a hero.
Then Mike carried Rex into the vet’s office. Still smiling. Still strong. For his partner.
“He was the best of us,” Mike would later say. “He taught me more about loyalty, courage, and love than any human ever could.”
Today, a plaque hangs in the precinct. With that final photo. And below it, these words: “Some angels have fur instead of wings.”
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