In fact , McConnell had actually helped with Murphy 's medical evacuation , just hours before suffering his own injuries . Sarah Shirk , a 2008 American Hero , finds rescue dogs for people in need . She had a dog ready for disabled war veteran Derek McConnell , but he died in March . The dog ended up with another veteran , Jake Murphy . Unbeknownst to Sarah , the two veterans knew each other and served together .
Sarah Shirk , a 2008 American Hero , finds rescue dogs for people in need . She had a dog ready for disabled war veteran Derek McConnell , but he died in March . The dog ended up with another veteran , Jake Murphy . Unbeknownst to Sarah , the two veterans knew each other and served together .