Have you ever wanted something so bad, you were willing to do anything to get it? That was the case for Lieutenant Colonel Jay Kopelman. In his touching book From Baghdad with Love: A Marine, the War, and a Dog Named Lava, Kopelman vividly tells his story of saving a stray pup, and eventually get him from Baghdad to the United States.

Kopelman found the stray mutt in an abandoned building during a patrol mission on the streets of Fallujah. The dog was dirty, small and probably starving. Against military law Kopelman and his battalion – named the “Lava Dogs” – took the puppy back to camp, cleaned him up, and fed him some MREs (Meals Ready to Eat).

The Lava Dogs named the pup “Lava” and treated him as one of their own.  Lava brought happiness to the men during frightening and lonely times. He cuddled and played with them all, but Lava made a special attachment to Kopelman – and likewise.

Kopelman made it his own personal mission to get Lava home on U.S. soil. The journey would not be easy and would require that he put himself, friends, and Lava in danger. But he was determined; this dog meant too much to be left on the streets, which would mean certain death.

The journey to get Lava home is a long and stressful one. More than just a great story about a bond between a man and his dog, this tale gives a glimpse into Marine life during times of war. Kopelman’s story will have you laughing, crying and quite possibly stressed out. Being right along side during this true story of Lava’s adventure makes this a wonderful read.

Get the book at Amazon.com.