Day: July 4, 2024

The Story of Lucca, the Retired Military DogLucca, a brave U.S. Marine Corps dog, served her country with distinction and saved countless lives during her military career. Her story is one of loyalty, courage, and the special bond between a military dog and her handler. Background: Lucca was a German Shepherd/Belgian Malinois mix, trained as a specialized search dog. She began her service in the Marine Corps at the age of two and quickly proved herself to be an invaluable asset in combat zones. Military Service: Lucca served two deployments to Iraq and one to Afghanistan over a six-year career…. CONTINUE READING…

The Story of Army Specialist Vanessa GuillénOne of the most heart-wrenching stories in recent memory is that of U.S. Army Specialist Vanessa Guillén, whose tragic death brought national attention to issues of sexual harassment and violence within the military. Background: Vanessa Guillén was a 20-year-old soldier stationed at Fort Hood, Texas. She was a dedicated and passionate service member who had dreams of advancing her career in the Army. Vanessa was known for her bright spirit and commitment to her duties. The Disappearance: On April 22, 2020, Vanessa was reported missing. Her disappearance raised alarm among her family and fellow… CONTINUE READING…

St Conan’s Kirk is an extraordinary early 20th-century church on the shore of Loch Awe, built by Walter Douglas Campbell, brother of the 1st Lord Blythswood, and incorporating fragments of carving from Iona. In the 1870s a new railway line was built along the north shore of Loch Awe, linking Dalmally and Taynuilt. Douglas Campbell took advantage of easy access to the loch to purchase the island of Innischonan and build a mansion for himself, his mother, and his sister Helen. Tradition suggests that Campbell’s mother found the carriage ride to Dalmally church too taxing, so Campbell decided to build… CONTINUE READING…