Airman Kyle Smith fell in love with Bodza the German shepherd as soon as they were paired up together for a deployment in Kyrgyzstan. Bodza was incredibly good at his job as a military dog, and he bonded with Kyle immediately.

After they finished their tour of duty, Kyle could not bare the thought of saying goodbye to Bodza, so he adopted him and brought him home with him.

The two had amazing adventures during their many years together, but when Bodza turned 11, Kyle immediately noticed that something was very wrong. Bodza was clearly in constant pain, so Kyle brought him to the veterinarian to find out what was wrong. There, Kyle was given the heartbreaking news that Bodza was suffering from an incurable spinal cord condition.

Kyle then made the agonizing decision to have Bodza be put down so that he would no longer be in pain. When they arrived to the veterinarian to have the procedure done, Kyle could not stop crying as he cradled Bodza in his arms. His Air Force brothers and loved ones had come with him that day to show their support, and they watched as Kyle said his final goodbyes to his beloved friend.

Kyle tried his best to hide his emotions, as he did not want his military superiors to see him cry. When his boss realized what was happening, he took action and made a request that had the entire room breaking down in tears as well.

In the video below, you’ll see the emotional moment Bodza is paid his final military respects. We suggest you have some tissues handy before you watch it!

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