Craig & Fred

A Marine, a Stray Dog, and How They Rescued Each Other

By: Craig Grossi

Narrated by: Craig Grossi

The uplifting and unforgettable true story of a US marine, the stray dog he met on an Afghan battlefield, and how they saved each other and now travel America together, "spreading the message of stubborn positivity".

In 2010, Sergeant Craig Grossi was doing intelligence work for Marine RECON - the most elite fighters in the corps - in a remote part of Afghanistan. While on patrol, he spotted a young dog "with a big goofy head and little legs" who didn't seem vicious or to run in a pack like most strays they'd encountered. After eating a piece of beef jerky Craig offered - against military regulations - the dog began to follow him. "Looks like you made a friend," another marine yelled. Grossi heard, "Looks like a Fred." The name stuck, and a beautiful, life-changing friendship was forged.

Fred not only stole Craig's heart; he won over the RECON fighters, who helped Craig smuggle the dog into heavily fortified Camp Leatherneck in a duffel bag - risking jail and Fred's life. With the help of a crew of DHL workers, a sympathetic vet, and a military dog handler, Fred eventually made it to Craig's family in Virginia.

Months later, when Craig returned to the US, it was Fred's turn to save the wounded marine from post-traumatic stress. Today, Craig and Fred are touching lives nationwide, from a swampy campground in a Louisiana State Park to the streets of Portland, Oregon, and everywhere in between.

A poignant and inspiring tale of hope, resilience, and optimism, with a timeless message at its heart - "it is not what happens to us that matters but how we respond to it" - Craig & Fred is a shining example of the power of love to transform our hearts and our lives.

©2017 Craig and Fred INC. (P)2017 HarperCollins Publishers

Absolutely heart warming!!

A great story for any service member who had a similar experience with a canine companion while deployed. Craig and Fred makes you laugh, cry, smile, and jump for joy every step of the way. A great read and an even better listen when it comes from the two themselves!!! A must for service members or dog lovers!!

Great book

The book was nice to listen to and hear a beautiful story which shares the best qualities life has to offer. I love how Craig and Fred were able to find each other in a place where most people can’t imagine. Loved this book!!!

Make you feel good about life

This book makes you feel good about life and people. I myself rescued a dog (not in Afghanistan) but either way I could relate to Craig in someways. After reading this you have more hope for humanity.

Heartwarming!

Love the story. If you love dogs it’s a must read . The story captivates and I couldn’t stop listening

I was intrigued from the start!!!

What a great book and I strongly recommend listening to it!!!I was intrigued right from the stsrt!!!

Nice story

the story he had to tell was enjoyable and well written. i found the most interesting parts were when he talked about fred. Im not sure the author was the best person to read the story.

Heart Puller

Craig has a way of telling the story and make you feel like you're there. The going from past to present has a great affect on how you follow the action. Loved every moment of this story.

Highly recommend.

This was a great story about a vet and the challenges he faced coming home. I would. Recommend this to anyone who wants a small look into some of the many issues vets deal with on a daily basis.

Love Fred

Love Fred and you too Craig. Was waiting to hear from Fred with a bark. That would have been so totally cool.
Keep up with your writing. So inspirational. More, more, please.

Semper Fi

As an old Marine and law enforcement K9 handler it was a pleasure to have listened to your story. Thank you Marine.