Morgan Strain
Hear Us Bark
Photography by Lindsay Gifford
Pictured Pups: Darth (L), Gunny (R), Fabian (Bottom)
Hometown: Slidell, LA
Veteran: Marine Corps Dog Handler—narcotics (Rico) and explosive detection (Basco);
Police officer—10 years
Family: Wife—Kemi Strain, Daughter—Aubrie Strain (21), Daughter—Alexa Strain (15), Step daughters—Payton and Parker Ford
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Service Puppies in Training (featured): Fabian (10 mos.); Darth & Gunny (4 mos.)
Operation Patriot FOB (OPFOB) is a one-of-a-kind operation
and still fairly new in Ridgeland. Tell us what OPFOB is all about:
OPFOB is a community of veterans and first responders who do life together. We bond and open up with each other regularly through peer-guided outdoor recreation. We connect, and instead of going home to another part of the country and trying to live life alone, we plug into our established community here in the Lowcountry. We have a 268-acre facility with ranges, ponds, and miles of trails where we meet up weekly.
How did you come to know about OPFOB?
I learned of OPFOB through the founder, JR Brown, who served
with me in the United States Marine Corps.
What made you start the OPFOB service dog program?
I think JR says it best: “Dogs have saved our lives both on and off of the battlefield.” Our service dog program is for first responders and veterans who have seen too much, dealt with the worst of the worst. Many of them fight the demons daily. You can’t see and experience all that without some sort of support system. The dogs provide an unconditional support system that is absolutely amazing to witness.
What have you seen some of your “graduated” service dogs do for their person?
In some cases, these dogs help their “patient” get through the day. When you’re dealing with PTSD or drinking to cope with the misery, the dogs provide a sense of safety and comfort. They also give their person purpose. You can’t lay in the bed depressed all day when you have to get up and take care of your dog. The dog gives a reason to be devoted to something and brings joy, stability, and routine.
What are 3 things everyone should know about OPFOB and the work
the organization is providing?
1) OPFOB has had over 51,000 visits since 2020 and zero suicides. Evidence that what we are doing is working.
2) You don’t have to be broken to come out to the FOB. If you’re a veteran or a first responder, come find your tribe.
3) It is always 100% free for veterans and first responders—post traumatic growth retreats, fishing, golf, all of it. We don’t ever want anyone to say, “I would have gone, but I didn’t have the money.”
Can regular civilians get involved in OPFOB or help with the service dog program?
YES! We operate on donations, but more importantly, we operate on VOLUNTEERS! The only thing required is to have a servant’s heart.
Morgan, you have experienced PTSD yourself and worked hard to recover and cope. What’s your best advice for someone struggling with anxiety, PTSD, or depression?
Don’t give up! Keep fighting! Come plug into the FOB. We have programs and mentors, and we can help provide a sense of purpose.
You had a huge, unbelievable blessing happen for you and your wife,
and it was a total surprise! Tell us more.
JR and I had spoken about me moving to the Lowcountry for years. After giving my testimony regarding the FOB at the 2024 Dinner for Heroes, JR told me it was time to move here. We went back and forth because the cost of living in the Lowcountry is much different than where we were in rural Mississippi. In March of 2025, OPFOB partnered with Lennar Homes, and I was given a home. We are still in shock and cannot believe it!
How has OPFOB and the Service Dog Program affected your life?
From Tupelo, Mississippi to Ridgeland, South Carolina is just over eight hours, one way. I made that drive nearly every month before moving. The FOB means that much to me.
Working at the FOB is not a job, it is a lifestyle. There is no going in at 8:00 A.M. and getting off at 5:00. The work is more important than that. The Service Dog Program can be consuming, but it is so vital for so many in our community.
Have you had a favorite moment?
Selfishly, receiving the house is one of the most unbelievable things that ever happened to me. But just finding the FOB is a blessing that has saved lives.
Since you’re in charge of the dogs, instead of asking you what you’re currently “roaring” about, we want to know what you’re currently “Barking” about?
I try to tell everyone about Jesus Christ and Operation Patriot’s FOB.
Fun Questions for Fabian, Darth & Gunny:
How long do you train before you get assigned to your person?
Our person will start to get “buy-in” at about 6 months but will fully get us at about 2 years.
What do you do for fun?
We go to the FOB and train, run, sit around, and spend time getting petted and working on being good boys.
Are you always on duty?
Yes, but our duty is what we love best. We are very smart and don’t like being bored. It is our honor to be on duty 24/7.
Lee Brice had a concert at OPFOB.
Did you get to meet him?
Yes. He’s a great guy and great performer!
He liked petting us, too.
Are you surprised people actually like puppy breath?
We’re not surprised. Us dogs have been roping people in with that special breath for centuries.
What’s your favorite treat?
We would love a few Ribeyes cooked medium rare, just like Morgan, but we usually get good doggie treats.
What’s the best thing about being a service puppy?
Serving someone who would die for you—some of the best people in America.
Visit OPFOB.org to learn more about OPFOB, their programs, fundraisers and volunteer opportunities.