Craig & Fred: A Marine, A Stray Dog, and How They Rescued Each Other

Craig Grossi served as a Marine intelligence collector in a remote district of Afghanistan when he encountered a stray dog in the midst of a combat zone. Despite regulations prohibiting pets, Craig formed a connection with the dog he named Fred, who displayed an unusual friendliness in an environment marked by hostility. The memoir chronicles Craig's efforts to bring Fred back to the United States and the complex logistics involved in transporting a dog from a war zone. Their journey together continues as Craig returns to civilian life and faces the challenges of reintegration while building a new life with his canine companion. Fred and Craig travel across America in a van, meeting people and navigating their evolving relationship as companions. Their road trip becomes an exploration of belonging, trust, and finding direction after military service. The book stands as a testament to the healing power of the human-animal bond and illustrates how unexpected connections can emerge from the harshest circumstances. It examines the universal theme of finding purpose through caring for another being.

Readers praise the genuine friendship between Craig and Fred, with many noting how their bond helped both cope with trauma and PTSD. The straightforward writing style and dual perspectives - both during wartime and afterward - resonate with veterans and dog lovers alike. Positive reviews highlight: - The authenticity of Craig's voice and experiences - Fred's personality and impact on those around him - Balance of serious war content with lighter moments - Educational value for young readers about military life Critical reviews mention: - Repetitive passages - Some military jargon confusion for civilian readers - Desire for more details about Fred's adjustment Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.8/5 (1,400+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.8/5 (150+ ratings) One reader noted: "The story shows how rescue goes both ways - sometimes the ones we think we're saving end up saving us."

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🎖️ Craig Grossi served as a Marine Corps Intelligence Collector in Afghanistan, where he first encountered Fred amid active combat operations in Sangin District. 🐕 Despite military rules prohibiting the adoption of strays, Craig's fellow Marines helped him hide Fred and eventually smuggle him back to the United States. 🏆 The book became a New York Times bestseller and has been adapted into a young readers' edition to share this story of friendship with a younger audience. 🌟 Fred's unique personality trait of "no-fleas-given" (his remarkably laid-back attitude) helped him survive as a stray in a war zone and later adjust to life in America. 🎓 Craig and Fred now travel across America speaking at schools, veterans' organizations, and other venues about resilience, friendship, and the power of positive thinking.