Remembering Vera

Patricia Polacco tells the true story of Vera, a heroic little dog who became an honorary member of the U.S. Coast Guard, in this poignant picture-book. Found as a stray by Coast Guard serviceman Davie Bunch in 1962, Vera was adopted by the entire barracks, and kept a secret from the "Ol' Man." Then a disabled boat called for help, and only Vera could get the rope across to the endangered sailors, swimming her way through rough seas, and winning a place in the officer's heart. Soon becoming the beloved mascot of the base on Government Island, in San Francisco Bay, Vera went on to perform other heroic actions, and to have many litters of puppies. When she grew old and infirm, and had to be euthanized in 1967, she was given an honor guard show more at her funeral and internment...

I found Remembering Vera immensely moving, and (as per usual with a Patricia Polacco title) was tearing up at more than one point. Dogs are often so loyal and true to the humans in their lives, and do so many wonderful and important things for us, and Vera is a shining example of that! I appreciated both the brief author's note at the beginning, and the one at the rear, giving more information about Vera. How amazing, that Patricia Polacco got to meet Vera, when she toured the Coast Guard base with a relative living there, and how poignant that she was also there for Vera's final moments, when the poor pup was brought into the Oakland SPCA where she was working. Highly recommended, both to fellow Patricia Polacco fans, as well as to anyone looking for picture-books about brave helper dogs, although parents and adults should be aware that Vera does die in the end, which might upset sensitive younger children. show less

This is a very heartwarming, true story of a puppy found by a coast guard serviceman who tried to keep the news away from the Commander. Taught to jump high to retrieve objects, Vera, named after the serviceman's favorite Aunt, is loved by all. When an emergency call was received requiring the coast guard unit to get a lifeline to the capsized boat, it was Vera who saved the lives of those on the boat.

By using the feats she was taught, she recused those in need. This particular day, the Commander watched as Vera saved lives. He too became smitten with Vera, and soon she had a bed beside his desk. When a ferry capsized and got caught in a rip tide in the area off Alcatraz, CA, it was Vera who saved those who were trapped below deck. show more Fearlessly, she dove time and time again to save the lives of many. As a result, she was compromised. The Commander made sure she had the best veterinary care possible.
She received a medal for valor and was made an honorary member of the coast guard.

Each year Vera had two litters of puppies. Everyone wanted one of Vera's puppies. She came into the life of the author who was volunteering at the Oakland, CA SPCA when it was time to help Vera transition to a better life. After treating Vera all those years, she became special to the vet staff as well. After putting her to sleep, a complete military honor guard entered. Vera's small casket was saluted and had a special burial site under her favorite tree.

Patricia Polacco has a unique way of writing about relationships, and many of her books bring tears. This one was no exception.
Years later, when the author wanted to find Vera's burial site, she learned that that particular area was not in the area they searched. She was able to find Vera's burial site and she brought her young grandson to Vera's location.

This is a very special book especially to be read and understood by those of us who had the experience of a wonderful relationship with a beloved animal.

Highly Recommended. show less

The story of a brave dog that assists the Coast Guard in their work. It also shows the dangers coast guard members regularly face, without being too intense for younger kids.

Discovered as a puppy, Vera quickly becomes the new mascot on the US Coast Guard base in Alameda, California. This heart-warming tale shows the courage, devotion, and friendship shared between a very special dog and everyone who comes in contact with her. Includes A Note about This Story, Author’s Note.