Where did you serve and what did you do?
2008-2009 Iraq. I was an MP assigned to various Iraqi Police Stations to help install facial recognition Systems (BAT) inventory, dismounted and mounted patrols, Counter IDF Patrols and Convoy Security
Tell us how your dog is helping you continue #StillServing in your community.
Bella, who was 14 and passed away this past March, two weeks shy of her 15th birthday but, she continues to comfort me with her memories. I bought Bella as a puppy before being deployed, to keep my wife company but, Bella was attached to me. I continue to help my community by serving as the commander of Virginia Post 2216 as well as helping my neighbors by mowing lawns, doing errands and various other chores. I ride a motorcycle and participate in many benefit rides
Why do you do it?
Before being deployed I was an outgoing and friendly person who enjoyed people and anything outdoors, but after returning from deployment, I suffered with Agoraphobia, depression and anxiety. I locked myself away for almost two years. Bella would come and wake me from my nightmares and comfort me, always wanting me to take her outside as a way for me to get outdoors. Up until this point she was just a companion dog. After returning home we had her trained as my Service Dog. At 13 we retired her but, she continued to work until her last breath. I do what I do as a thank you to Bella who without, I may not be here today. She pushed me to go outside, she was a people dog so, she also had me meeting other dog walkers. Today I am again outgoing and love people and the outdoors. All because of her. That’s why I do it.