Where did you serve and what did you do?

I served in the Marine Corps form 99-11 and was in Iraq in 2004. I was apart of the initial push into Fallujah in April called Operation Vigilant Resolve. My MOS was 1833 Amphibious Assault Vehicle Crewman. I served as a Crew Chief, Asst. Section Leader in Iraq and later as a Section Leader after returning home.

Tell us how your dog is helping you continue Still Serving in your community.

I got Malkin in 2019 from an organization called Helping Paws. They have a veterans and first responder program so I applied in early 2019. Malkin goes with me most places and helps me with grounding techniques to calm me down, he creates space between me and other people, he enters rooms in front of me, and picks up items if I drop them. He is ADI certified which means he has gone through very rigorous training and testing prior to be placed as service dog.

Why do you do it?

I serve in the VFW because I enjoy the Community Service aspect of giving back. Our post participates in the Day of Service and last year we were recognized as an All American Post. The VFW is a way for me to stay connected with other veterans and hear their stories and point them in the right direction because for so many years I struggled to find my way.