While leading a patrol in Helmand Province in Afghanistan on June 14, Herrera was shot in the left side of his lower back. The bullet lodged in his spine. The 28-year-old Annapolis Naval Academy 2006 graduate, now in a wheelchair, hopes to continue his military career in California.
Shaggy, a 50-pound black and white border collie/terrier mix, was rescued eight months ago from the Palm Beach County Animal Shelter, sparing it from being euthanized. The dog was trained specially for Herrera by Mike Lorraine, owner of suburban Palm Beach Gardens-based South Florida Working Dogs, a company that trains service dogs.
Shaggy was given to Herrera Thursday by the Jupiter-based Renewal Coalition, a non-profit group that assists Gulf War veterans. Herrera and his wife Maura plan to take Shaggy with them after Christmas when they return to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton north of San Diego, where Herrera plans to resume his military career.
“He’s going to be my partner,” said Herrera, patting Shaggy at a recent training session. “He’ll help me with the everyday tasks. He’ll be great company.”
Herrera uses a laser pointer to direct Shaggy. At a recent training session, Herrera pointed to a doorbell, and Shaggy used his paw to make it ring. Shaggy picked up a quarter, a wallet and a screwdriver between his teeth and gently dropped them in Herrera’s lap. Shaggy even dragged a leaf blower — while it was running — to Herrera.
“It’s going to give me peace of mind. I will feel more comfortable knowing someone will be with him,” said Maura. The couple, who met in high school in Dover, Del., have been married for six years.
“Slim to somewhat bleak” is how the 6-foot-2-inch, muscular Herrera describes his chances to walk again. He has full use of his arms and hands, and no feeling below his chest. But there is no regret in his voice.
“It could have been much worse. I had some buddies that will never come back,” he said.
The Renewal Coalition has paid expenses for about 16 wounded veterans and their families for weeklong retreats in north county. The group sets the families up in a donated home and provides free activities such as fishing trips and limousine services.
The couple are staying at a home provided by the coalition while Shaggy is being trained.
Shaggy, who is about 2 years old and wears a “Do Not Pet” collar, likely will serve Herrera for about a decade.
“Derek is a real go-getter,” Lorraine said. “He wants to get out there. Getting Shaggy has really raised his spirits.”
(Palm Beach Post - Dec. 13, 2012)
