The year was 2016 when former Army Specialist Ken Wyrsch encountered an unexpected companion at his military installation in Iraq. During a routine workday, his attention was captured by a scruffy canine lingering in the vicinity.
This wasn’t just any dog — it was a homeless wanderer with remarkable audacity. Without hesitation, the creature strolled directly through the military checkpoint as if it owned the place.
From that first encounter, Ken was smitten. The young pup quickly captured not only Ken’s affection but also the hearts of every service member on base.
The soldiers christened him Ollie — and Ken became his devoted caretaker.
Something clicked the instant Ollie wandered onto the compound. Ken experienced an immediate connection, an unshakeable conviction that he couldn’t stand by and watch this vulnerable animal struggle to survive in the unforgiving streets.
Ken became Ollie’s guardian. He provided proper nourishment and constant care, naturally stepping into the role of Ollie’s protector. For Ollie, stumbling upon this group of soldiers was like winning the lottery — he’d finally found someone who truly cared.
An Unwavering Companion
Each time Ken departed for operations, Ollie would faithfully wait for his return, his tail wagging furiously the second he spotted his favorite human approaching.
“He lifted everyone’s spirits,” Ken recalled.
“He’d be right there watching us head out on patrol, and he’d be waiting when we rolled back in,” Ken shared with CBS SF.
As the weeks and months passed, the connection between Ken and Ollie deepened. Ken seized every available moment to be with his four-legged companion.
A Heartbreaking Goodbye
Then came the inevitable — Ken received orders to leave. The military facility was closing permanently, which meant Ollie would lose his newfound family and face life on the streets once more. Ken’s heart shattered at the thought.
He worried constantly that Ollie wouldn’t make it out there, particularly in a place where stray animals faced harsh treatment — and Ollie was such a trusting, affectionate soul.
The Decision Was Clear
Ken refused to accept that fate.
“You don’t abandon your friends,” Ken stated firmly to KPIX. “It’s not an option.”
Upon returning stateside, he wasted no time contacting SPCA International, hoping they could help raise the necessary funds to transport Ollie to California.
And the plan succeeded! By May 2016, thanks to the kindness of countless donors, Ollie touched down on American soil.
The video below captures the incredible moment when Ollie and Ken come face to face again. You’ll want tissues nearby — this reunion is guaranteed to melt your heart…

If you believe this soldier’s compassion is truly extraordinary and want to send good wishes to Ollie as he begins his new American adventure, please share this touching story!