A dog is truly man’s best friend, and sometimes in combat, a dog is also man’s best protector. When members of the military work closely with a dog, they develop a close bond with the animal and saying goodbye is always hard. One military member recently experienced what it’s like to bid an animal farewell.

The military dog was suffering from bone cancer and had to be put down because its illness was quite advanced. The soldier was heartbroken and got to say one last goodbye to his beloved dog and protector. The tears flowed and the soldier begged the doctors to let the dog live.

Watch the video to learn more about this truly heartbreaking story.

Saying goodbye is never easy, no mater the circumstances.