‘I Wouldn’t Be Able to Keep Serving Without Mary Lee’
Florida veteran and VFW 7909 Gold Legacy Life member Robert Hernandez is Still Serving with help from his service dog, Mary Lee.
Hernandez developed Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) from his time in the military. When Mary Lee senses Hernandez is in distress, she has different ways to help calm him. Mary Lee’s steady support and attention helps Hernandez stay active in his community and live a fuller life.
The two can often be found at their local Rotary Club. As a Veteran Affairs (VA) liaison, Hernandez helps veterans access free dental and mental health care or connect with Operation Barnabas, an organization that offers veteran housing, employment and mentorship.
Hernandez also serves as a mentor with the Veterans Treatment Court of Duval County which helps veterans break criminal cycles. He volunteers with the Knights of Columbus to assist veterans facing food insecurity and homelessness.
Hernandez also serves on the North Florida/South Georgia Advisory Board and the St. Augustine/Duval County VA Board. He lends his time to several other organizations, including the Jax Vets Affordable Animal Hospital and Operation New Uniform.
“Giving back to veterans and my community is very important to me,” Hernandez said. “I wouldn’t be able to keep serving without Mary Lee.”
