While doing intelligence work for the Marine Corps in Afghanistan during 2010, Craig Grossi came across a dog that changed his life. They sparked an immediate connection when Craig fed the dog and the dog wagged his tail in response. Deciding to keep him while he continued his service, and eventually giving him a new home in America, it’s safe to say Craig also changed that dog’s life. The story is the catalyst for the critically acclaimed book “Craig & Fred: A Marine, A Stray Dog, and How They Rescued Each Other.” Craig joins me this episode to go into detail on rescuing Fred, and the philosophy of “stubborn positivity” as Grossi puts it, that Fred taught him. We also get into the subjects of Guantanamo Bay (where Craig spent his first four years in the Corps working as a prison guard), and why veterans should be encouraged to write and share what they’ve gone through, good or bad. Grossi has such a feel good story in a world where there’s a lot of bad news out there, and I’m happy to have him on to tell our audience all about it. If you’re a dog lover, you’ll be moved. If you have a child in your life that loves dogs and the military, there’s also a young readers’ edition available. Tell us what you think on our Instagram and Twitter @SOFREPRadio, or shoot us an email at [email protected]. You can follow Craig & Fred as well @FredTheAfghan. Be sure to also leave us a review on Apple Podcasts.