The story revolves around Justin Lansford, a brave US Army veteran hailing from Silver Spring, Maryland, and his beloved service dog. Their connection surpasses the typical bounds of friendship, as they are each other's ultimate support system. So, when the day of Justin's wedding arrived, it was only fitting that his loyal canine companion played a special role.

Justin's journey began in 2012 when he served as a paratrooper in Afghanistan, only to be met with a life-altering accident caused by an IED explosion. His truck was completely overturned, resulting in the amputation of his left leg due to bilaterally severed femurs.

During his hospital recovery, a life-changing opportunity presented itself. A remarkable organization called Warrior Canine Connections specializes in pairing wounded servicemen with support dogs. It was through this program that Justin's path intersected with that of a golden retriever named Gabe, forever altering the course of their lives.

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Gabe was invaluable in helping Justin readjust after losing his leg.

“The less I use my wheelchair, the more I need his help in smaller tasks and the more he is there,” Justin said. “It has been very comforting to know that.”

“He helps me with one thing to the next. I can use him as a stable surface to lean on, as I get to and from the ground. If I fall, he’ll come up running next to me and I can use him to push off of to get up off the ground.”

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But Gabe did more than just help him around. He quickly proved to be a source of emotional support and friendship.

“Since day one, we’ve been joined to the hip,” Justin told the New York Daily News. “He’s there for me all day, every day.”

The dog made a big impact not only on Justin, but on his longtime girlfriend Carol, who worked for Warrior Canine Connections and knew the deep connection they shared.

“You have to make sure a support dog is always happy and that they’ll love the person they’re with forever,” Carol told Buzzfeed. “The second Justin walked into the room when they met, Gabe was wiggling, crying, and rolling on the floor.”

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So when Justin & Carol got married in 2015, it felt only right to have Gabe be part of the ceremony.

But while some people have their dogs act as ring bearers or just as guests, Justin wanted his beloved dog by his side on his big day and gave him a position of honor: his best man.

“He goes everywhere I go,” Justin told the Daily News. “He’s certainly there to pick me up emotionally when I need it. Why would the wedding be any different?”

The bride certainly had no objections to Justin’s unique choice.

“Justin and Gabe go everywhere together and our wedding did not seem like it should be any different of an occasion,” Carol said. “He is a huge part of our life and deserves to share in the moment with us.”

“It was really cool to have him right by me,” Justin said.

“I don’t think there was a dry eye at that point. It was a pretty steady ‘aww’ throughout the entire wedding.”

Your wedding is a very special day, a time when you want to be surrounded by the friends and family who have supported you the most.

It seems only natural that Gabe be at the heart of their big day.

This touching tale beautifully illustrates the profound connections we forge with animals. They transcend mere companionship and evolve into cherished bonds, making them our ultimate confidantes and most loyal allies.

Spread the warmth of this heartfelt narrative!