Ninja

This is the initial posting that went out on our unit chat list:

SUBJECT: RIP - Ninja

I guess the thread title pretty much sums it up. For those weren't aware Ninja has been sick lately and over the last few weeks the symptoms have been steadily growing worse and we hadn't been able to find a cause. Today, we had additional testing done and it turned out he had a form of lymphatic cancer. As weak as he was, and for a couple of other reasons, Jobie and I decided not to try any aggressive treatments and would let him go peacefully. We took him to our regular vet and there he died with his head on my lap and Jobie petting him.

Les

Few animals can touch the hearts of so many, and Ninja was one of those types. He was a gentle giant who enjoyed the company of everyone. He allowed all - young and old - to pet him without concern. He was a staunch conservationist, always making sure there was never any unnecessary food thrown out. He was Les's constant companion, and always made sure the ladies in his life, Jobie and Alyssa, were safe. He trudged out to reenactments of various sorts spanning over 500 years, and was always welcome in every camp. He kept up in good weather and bad, and rarely complained, even when the temperatures got too cold. He was immediately dubbed the official mascot of the 11th Pennsylvania Regiment before the ink on their family application was dry; a title he enjoyed tremendously, especially if the evening's leftovers made its way to his eating bowl. Although our camp will be a little lonelier from now on, we take solace in that he will never again be hungry or cold, or in pain. He will always be in our hearts and thoughts.

WOOF - BARK - WOOF - WOOF !

( Akita for HUZZAH ... and pass the vittles )

Introducing ... NINJA, making his debut with family at Hope Lodge 2004

In the only known picture of Ninja and John Posch, now both departed

Keeping the floor warm at the 2005 unit meeting

His trademark look

Even with the cold weather at Bound Brook, he was a trooper

Although you can't see him, he was always at Les's feet

Okay, so maybe this Whit-rain wasn't such a good idea after all

Warmer weather at Monmouth brought an increased appetite

"Are you going to eat that?

I can help."

"Who's sneaking up on me?"

Joining the crowd to usher in the new unit flag

His last event ... Siege 2006, already feeling under the weather.

Tributes to Ninja

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We are very saddened by your, and partly our, loss.

- John & the girls

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So sorry to learn of Ninja's passing, Les & Jobie. I know he was really part of the family, more than just a pet. We all loved him.

- Charles

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The gentlest of giants will surely be missed in camp.

- Chuck

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OMG - that breaks my heart. My family and I are very saddened by this. You are in our thoughts. Ninja was a great companion and friend.

- Tim

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Sorry to hear about Ninja. He was a great dog and added flavor to the camp. I will miss him.

- Mitch

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Oh, this is such sad news! We will all miss Ninja, a prince of dogs.

- Kathy O.

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I'm glad we got to see him Christmas Eve. We'll miss him terribly. Fighting over carrot cake just won't be the same.

- James

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Sad, very sad. First Lionel from the Jeffersons is gone, then the Godfather of Soul, James Brown - gone. President Ford - passed away...

Now Ninja?? It goes to show all the great ones leave us in December. Here is a 21 bark salute to you Ninja ... where ever you may be.

- Jerry

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So very sorry to hear about Ninja. He truly was part of the regiment. He will be missed.

- Tony & Chris

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We extend our sincere condolences on the loss of Ninja. He was a magnificent member of our group and will be deeply missed.

- Wayne & Marge

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I am very sorry to hear of his passing. Losing a pet is always very hard. My thoughts are with you all in this time.

- Justin

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Very sorry to hear that Ninja is gone. He was a nice dog and we will miss him.

- Sean

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Oh my goodness, I'm truly so sorry to hear that. He will be sorely missed. Mikey, Stefan and myself send
our condolences, as a dog lover myself I can attest to the fact that is very much synonymous with losing a
member of the family.

- Matt

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I am REALLY sorry to hear about your loss. I really liked
Ninja and I will miss him.

- Jeff

24th CMR