Megan Leavey didn't plan on becoming a Marine hero. After the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the young college dropout from New York needed a profound change. She enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in August 2003, setting off a chain of events that led her to a German Shepherd named Rex. Their unbreakable bond defined her service, shaped her recovery from severe combat wounds, and fueled a relentless multi-year campaign to bring her partner home.
Life after active duty brought severe physical challenges, emotional hurdles, and bureaucratic red tape. Yet her post-military journey stands as a testament to fierce loyalty, animal advocacy, and quiet resilience.
Deployment, Injury, and Separation
Assigned as a military police K-9 handler at Camp Pendleton, California, Leavey met Rex (E168) in 2004. Rex had a reputation as a difficult, aggressive dog, but Leavey earned his trust. Together, they completed over 100 missions across two hazardous deployments to Iraq—first to Fallujah in 2005 and then to Ramadi in 2006.
Their service came to a sudden halt in September 2006. While leading a U.S. Army foot patrol in Ramadi, an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated beneath them. Leavey was thrown roughly ten feet, suffering a traumatic brain injury, hearing loss, and shrapnel wounds. Rex sustained severe shoulder trauma. Both survived because the explosive device was buried deep in the ground, but the blast left physical and psychological scars that changed their lives forever.
Leavey was honorably discharged as a corporal in December 2007, receiving the Purple Heart and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a "V" device. When she left Camp Pendleton, military regulations prevented her from adopting Rex, separating the partners while Rex continued working or remained in military kennels.
The Fight to Adopt Sgt. Rex
Transitioning back to civilian life in New York proved difficult. Leavey dealt with lingering symptoms of traumatic brain injury and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), while carrying heavy guilt over leaving her canine partner behind.
By 2012, Rex was roughly eleven years old and developed facial palsy, which ended his explosive-detection career. Because of his classification as an aggressive military working dog, the military considered him unadoptable and slated him to be euthanized. Determined to save him, Leavey launched a public petition and advocacy campaign.
Her efforts gained traction with the help of U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, local veterans groups, and Randy and Mindy Levine of the New York Yankees. Public pressure mounted quickly. In April 2012, the Marine Corps relented, and Leavey was finally permitted to adopt Rex and bring him home to New York.
A Short But Healing Retirement
The reunion gave Rex a brief, peaceful final chapter. For eight months, the German Shepherd lived with Leavey, enjoying long walks, plush stuffed animal toys, and swimming in a pool.
"I am so grateful for the last eight months I got to spend with my partner and my best friend," Leavey shared at the time. Rex passed away from cancer in December 2012. Though brief, that final year provided Leavey with the closure she needed to move forward with her civilian life.
Post-Military Career and Advocacy
With her partner at peace, Leavey dedicated her professional life to working with animals and security operations. She secured a role with MSA Security as a handler for another bomb-detection dog named Patriot. In this capacity, she helped sweep venues like Yankee Stadium and the United Nations prior to major events, continuing her mission of public safety.
Beyond her security work, Leavey became a prominent advocate for veterans and military working dogs. Her story reached a global audience with the release of the 2017 biographical film Megan Leavey, starring Kate Mara as Leavey and featuring a cameo appearance by Leavey herself. She has used her platform to speak at national veterinary conventions, support organizations like the Foundation for Women Warriors, and raise awareness about the complex physical and psychological needs of combat veterans and retired K-9s.
Her journey reflects a profound transformation from a lost teenager to a decorated Marine and an enduring voice for animal welfare.
Frequently Asked Questions
What medals did Megan Leavey earn during her service?
Leavey received the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during the IED blast in Ramadi and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with a "V" device denoting valor in combat.
How long did Megan Leavey and Rex serve together?
The pair served together for approximately three years, completing over 100 missions across two combat deployments to Iraq between 2005 and 2006.
Why was it difficult for Megan Leavey to adopt Rex?
Military working dogs were historically classified as government property and working equipment. Because Rex was trained extensively in bite work and executive protection, the military initially deemed him too aggressive for civilian life, requiring a massive political and public advocacy campaign to secure his release.
What is Megan Leavey doing today?
Leavey continues to advocate for military veterans and working dogs. She has worked in private security as a canine handler and frequently speaks at national events regarding veteran support and animal-human bonds in the armed forces.
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