Sergeant Jesse Knott has served bravely in the United States Army for over eight years. During his deployment to Afghanistan in 2010, he encountered Koshka, a wild cat that frequented the army base and helped control the mouse population.
Knott quickly formed a bond with Koshka and was disheartened by the poor treatment the cat received from others.
“He was showing some signs that people weren’t really taking good care of him,” Knott told CNN. “I found paint in his fur a couple of times, and then, people took a pair of clippers and shaved his back.” Although soldiers were prohibited from keeping pets, Knott decided to take action and sheltered Koshka in his office.
Knott enjoyed Koshka’s company, but the cat’s importance became especially clear after a tragic event in December 2011. Two of Knott’s friends were killed by a suicide bomber. Overwhelmed with grief, Knott retreated to his office to cry, and Koshka crawled into his lap to offer comfort.
“I’d lost hope in myself, I’d lost faith,” Knott said. “And all of a sudden, this cat comes over and just reminds me that, hey, you’re you.”
Recognizing that Koshka needed a better and safer life, Knott decided to send him to the United States.
“He pulled me out of one of my darkest times, so I had to pull him out of one of his darkest places,” Knott explained.
Knott couldn’t secure Koshka a spot on an American convoy, raising concerns about the cat’s fate.
Fortunately, an Afghan interpreter bravely volunteered to take Koshka to Kabul, from where he could be flown to America. This act of bravery was risky, as aiding an American could have led to severe repercussions from the Taliban.
Knott bid farewell to Koshka, and the interpreter successfully transported him to Kabul without any issues. Knott’s parents financed Koshka’s flight, allowing him to travel to Islamabad, Pakistan, and then to New York. Finally, Koshka reached Portland, Oregon, where Knott’s parents eagerly awaited him.
Koshka stayed with Knott’s parents until Knott’s return from Afghanistan. Their reunion was filled with joy, as both were thrilled to see each other again.
This act highlights critical gaps in our support systems for people in crisis and animal welfare. Urge authorities to provide those in crisis with the help they need to prevent animal abuse!
Today, Koshka is an eight-year-old playful and friendly cat who enjoys spending time with Knott and embarking on various adventures. The duo loves exploring the outdoors together and relaxing at home. Knott often shares their adventures on his Facebook page.
Knott’s efforts to rescue Koshka and the comfort the cat provided during Knott’s darkest times highlight their incredible bond. To learn more about their story, watch the video below.