From Presidential Pal to Veteran Pal: Sully’s New Mission at Walter Reed
WALL‑STREET & WALKWAY UPDATE: On February 27th, a half‑thick paw lift and an earnest bellow marked a milestone for George H.W. Bush’s faithful Labrador, “Sully.” The beloved companion of the 41st U.S. president now swears to protect, comfort, and cheer aboard the Walter Reed National Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.
Why “Sully” is ‘Sully‑worthy’
- Legacy doggo: After President Bush passed in 2018, Sully stayed by the casket, the modern-day equivalent of a loyal butler.
- He’s a “foreman” now: Not the site‑engineer type but a “hospital foreman” – tasked with easing the stress of wounded vets and their families.
- Veteran “veteran” benefit: The facility reports that the dog squad does roughly 2,500 contacts and over 200 hours of positive vibes every month.
- Aged 2½ years: A remarkably young U.S. veteran in pup-years thanks to VetDogs training.
The Oath Ceremony
The event, caught on Facebook, was a heart‑warming comic show. Sully opened the proceedings by stretching his belly—like a pup‑yoga session—then solemnly pledged that his service would come “without any promise of treats or tummy rubs.” Afterwards, a shiny “military uniform” vest was secured onto his chest, turning him from pet to “Patrol Pup.”
Why the name “Sully”?
It’s a nod to Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, the pilot who famously landed a US Airways jet in the Hudson after a goose‑hunger mishap. The name fits both the courageous and the calm nature of the Labrador.
Family Acknowledgment
Jenna Bush Hager, the President’s granddaughter, praised Sully’s transition: “Sully will spread his love at Walter Reed Hospital. He was a loving companion when my Gampy needed him most,” she tweeted, reminding us that even dogs have a place in his legacy.
