VFW Launches #StillServing Dogs Campaign

PRESS RELEASE

The VFW #StillServing Campaign Issues Call for Stories of Veterans and their Canine Friends

Campaign launch coincides with National Service Dog Awareness Month in September.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Sept. 1, 2021) — The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) launched the #StillServing campaign in February 2020 to bring attention to and honor the continued commitment and sacrifice of America’s veterans. For some of those men and women, dogs have played – or continue to play – an important role. The VFW wants to share their stories.

The VFW urges all veterans who have experiences with service dogs, working dogs, therapy dogs and emotional support dogs to submit a brief story through the #StillServing website at todaysvfw.org.

“Dogs often have a special bond with humans, and are even called ‘man’s best friend’ because they mean so much to us. Often, that’s a result of how much they do for us and alongside us,” stated Fritz Mihelcic, VFW National Commander. “Veterans value the experiences they have with dogs whether that’s as a service member or in the workplace or their personal lives after transitioning out of the military.”

This new initiative is seeking a wide range of stories including, but not limited to:

• Service dogs or therapy dogs aiding veterans with physical or mental injuries.
• Veterans who benefit from emotional support dogs.
• Veterans involved in training service dogs, working dogs or therapy dogs.
• Dogs who assisted service members during a military operation.
• Veterans employed with a police department K-9 unit.

“We value the outstanding service these wonderful animals are able to provide and want to recognize dogs who have been or currently are a great help to us,” Mihelcic said. “There are many veterans continuing to answer the call of duty or overcoming challenges in their lives, and we know that some of them can’t imagine doing that without a special dog by their side.”

ABOUT #STILLSERVING: The #StillServing campaign is raising awareness about the different ways veterans continue a life of service beyond their military career and how their ongoing contributions make a positive difference for communities and the country. For more than a year, it has showcased inspiring stories of veterans who exemplify the best of America. Visit todaysvfw.org for more information or to submit a story.

ABOUT THE VFW: The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is the nation's largest and oldest major war veterans organization. Founded in 1899, the congressionally-chartered VFW is comprised entirely of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. With more than 1.6 million VFW and Auxiliary members located in over 6,000 Posts worldwide, the nonprofit veterans service organization is proud to proclaim “NO ONE DOES MORE FOR VETERANS” than the VFW, which is dedicated to veterans’ service, legislative advocacy, and military and community service programs. For more information or to join, visit our website at vfw.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Randi K. Law, Communications Manager, rlaw@vfw.org, 816.968.1104.