Remembering Lieutenant Florence B. Choe
On this day five years ago, Lieutenant Florence B. Choe and her shipmate Lieutenant (junior grade) Francis Toner, were out for a Friday afternoon run. They were jogging on a frequently used path around the perimeter of Forward Operating Base Shaheen in Afghanistan, an area guarded by Afghan Army soldiers who had been trained by U.S. Forces. Suddenly, one of these Afghan soldiers raised his military issued weapon and fired a hail of bullets, bullets which hit and killed LT Choe. LTJG Toner rushed toward the shooter to stop him (a sobering reminder that our military runs toward the sound of gunfire). Francis was unarmed, though, and the Afghan “soldier” quickly shot and killed him.
LT Florence B. Choe, described by family and friends as “All Navy,” joined the Navy shortly after September 11, 2001, feeling it was her patriotic duty to do more. As a Medical Service Corps officer, she (along with many other Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen, and Marines) was there to mentor the Afghan troops of the Afghan National Army. The gunman was not a random bad guy who slithered on to the base, but rather an Afghan National Army soldier, who was vetted and trained to Afghan Army standards. In other words, someone they should have been able to trust. Someone Florence and Francis trained. Someone who should have been watching over and keeping the Sailors and Soldiers, Airmen, and Marines out for a Friday afternoon jog safe. Instead, he murdered them in cold blood. Florence left behind her husband and daughter.
On this day, we honor the memory of LT Florence B. Choe and LTJG Francis Toner (who was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for his valor during the incident) and take pride in who they were and what they did for the Afghani people. Through the sadness of their passing, we look to Warrior Canine Connection’s Florence with pride and encouragement as she honors her namesake’s memory as she becomes a highly trained service dog who will go on to serve one of the many veterans who so desperately need the special love and assistance only she can offer.
Did you know LT Florence B. Choe? Perhaps you know her family? If so, we would love to hear from you!
Until next time, have joy in your heart, a smile on your face, and a dog by your side!
Bonnie
Thanks for this story, Bonnie. What makes it doubly sad, as you said, she was killed by someone she should have been able to trust! I love your photos and all you do for our dogs & veterans.
Thanks Bonnie for reminding us of Florence’s dedication and sacrifice. WCC’s Florence will do her namesake proud by serving and loving other veterans.