Thank a Veteran Today – A Veteran’s Story with Armadillo Dave

This Veterans Day, let me share a story that might resonate with fellow veterans and bring a smile to your face.

Before my first deployment, I wanted to bring a piece of home with me. Growing up in West Texas, I’ve always had a soft spot for the humble armadillo—the Texas state mammal! When I saw a small plush armadillo at Tractor Supply, I knew I’d found my travel companion. I named him Dave, and he quickly became part of my deployment life, providing a little comfort and a lot of laughs along the way.

Dave wasn’t just a keepsake; he had a personality of his own. He’d sneak into crew members’ seats, cozy up in unexpected spots, and even served as a makeshift pillow on B-52s, C-130s, and plywood bunk beds. His mischievous antics made him an ideal companion, helping to lighten spirits during tough times.

When I couldn’t send photos of myself back home, I’d send pictures of Armadillo Dave. Seeing him in various settings—dusty, sunlit, and sometimes with a hint of sand from the Middle East and Africa—let my loved ones know I was okay. After all the adventures, Dave came back a little worse for wear but true to his Texan roots, still standing strong.

Now that we’re both back in Texas, Dave has retired from his travel duties, taking on a new role as a pillow for my son. Someday, I hope to share all of Dave’s stories with my children, giving them a glimpse into my journey and reminding them of the value of connection, even in the smallest ways.

#VeteransDay #TexasVeteran #DeploymentStories #ArmadilloDave #ProudTexan