A three-year-old chocolate Labrador named Captain Fathom has completed an extraordinary deployment aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, providing comfort and companionship to U.S. Navy sailors.

Fathom spent 265 days at sea with the aircraft carrier before returning to San Diego. Provided by nonprofit organization Mutts With A Mission, he was trained from eight weeks old to navigate shipboard challenges, including steep ladders, loud noises and unfamiliar surroundings.

During the deployment, Fathom helped boost morale among sailors separated from their families. His primary handler, Lieutenant Charlene Wright, worked alongside six other handlers to care for the dog throughout the mission.

Fathom’s service highlights the important role specially trained dogs can play in supporting military personnel’s emotional well-being, offering comfort and companionship during long and demanding deployments.

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