U.S. Marine Corps Veteran Hannah joined the military to make a difference, protect others and find a new direction to challenge herself in life. She spent her military career as a strong and versatile Marine, starting as a Motor Transport Operator. She served as one of three instructors for the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle Master Driver Course, where she trained and certified nine HMMWV Operators.
In 2019, she was deployed to Kuwait and Iraq, and in 2020, she was awarded the Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal for her work with the Marine Corps Recruitment Department, having a direct impact on over 1,200 poolees during the Covid-19 lockdown. Her efforts in planning and leading multiple large-scale convoys while she was with the Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force were instrumental in reopening Al Asad Airfield.
When she returned home, Hannah felt the weight of her service and began searching for safety, stability and healing. She began looking for support through Service Dog programs for Veterans.
That’s when she found K9s for Warriors and applied, hopeful that a Service Dog could help her manage daily life and find peace again.
In October 2025, she found what she was looking for when she was paired with her Service Dog Nola, an adorable male Golden Retriever with a heart that matched his coat.
“I cried when the gate opened and I first saw Nola,” Hannah shared.
“I was completely overwhelmed in the best way and felt this immediate sense of joy and relief. My heart recognized him before my mind could catch up, and it was love at first sight.”
And just like that, a bond was formed between the two of them that would follow Hannah into one of the most important days of her life at her wedding in November 2025, just a month after being paired with Nola.
“Weddings are emotional and overwhelming, and Nola was my anchor throughout the entire day,” Hannah shared.
“This was one of the most important moments of my life, and he helped keep my anxiety grounded and reminded me to stay present. Knowing he was there by my side gave me a sense of calm and confidence that made the day even more meaningful.”
During the month of love this February, Hannah and Nola prove that Cupid isn’t the only one who can make a perfect pair,
