Where did you serve and what did you do?
I have served in the US Navy since 2004. I am currently a reservist and am the XO of the Navy Reserve CNE-CNA N2/N39 unit out of Fort Gillem, GA, which supports US Sixth Fleet.
Tell us how your dog is helping you continue #StillServing in your community.
My Bernese Mountain Dog, Ruby, and I serve on a therapy dog team with Pets on Wheels of Maryland. We visit libraries, universities, and senior centers—including Charlotte Hall Veterans Home in Maryland. Ruby has a wonderful way with seniors and is a favorite at many of our local assisted living centers. She has helped me to find new ways to support our veteran community.
Why do you do it?
Working as part of a therapy dog team gives me a great opportunity to serve my community, especially veterans who are not able to have dogs of their own, but who light up when Ruby walks in for a visit. I enjoy talking with and learning from the veterans who have served before me. It is a wonderful way to give back to my community.