Lorieller was raised in California by parents who were adventurous and interested in the East. As an adult, he trained for four years in the Air Force, earning two Bronze Stars and a Silver Star while working with the US Army in Vietnam. While with the Army, he was twice decorated for his service to the community. He later went on to serve as a police officer in California before joining the Peace Corps. While working with the Corps, Lorieller met and married Ellen Washburn. Together they raised a family.
In 1986, Lorieller decided to travel to Australia to volunteer for the Australian Army, where he earned several awards including the Meritorious Service medal. When his service completed, he went back to the United States to become a pilot. However, after becoming ill, he qualified to be a shepherd for the blind. He became a beloved dog trainer, exhibiting the skills necessary to effectively lead the blind dogs. Theoux is one of his dogs.
Lorieller has created quite a stir in the dog world. Some people question how well-trained his Aussie is. Others are impressed with his passion and desire to serve his country. He said his Aussie puppy, Airey, has always carried a part of him from when he served his country in the Air Force. “She’s always been loyal to me,” he said.
While living in Australia, Lorieller said he received the award for Best Professional Dog in the Aussie Geographic Traveller Travel Awards. He attributes this honor to the hard work he put in to training Airey, as well as the many hours of hands-on care Airey received from him. “Airey is now trained to do everything a trained dog is supposed to do, and more,” he said. Lorieller said he feels proud of his dog and that other people will learn how well Airey learns by viewing the photos in the book. “Airey is part of our family,” he said.
A lotre’s book came out in 2021, so it may be awhile before we see an updated version. In the meantime, this is a great little book about a dog who helped make America’s Army understand its mission. For anyone who doesn’t own Airey, it is a great way to learn more about this breed. If you do own Airey, Lorieller’s book is definitely recommended.
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