Community Corner
From Combat To Compassion: One Veteran’s New Mission
Vince Ylitalo, a retired master sergeant and Iraq veteran, now helps fellow vets heal through service dogs with Operation Delta Dog.
Whether it’s serving as a military officer or stepping up as a first responder, it takes a rare combination of dedication, resilience and heart to take on these roles. And for many of these individuals, that same drive carries over into life beyond the badge.
Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to spotlight active-duty military members, veterans and first responders who continue to lead, inspire and give back in meaningful ways across their communities.
U.S. military veteran Vince Ylitalo of Concord is one of the many who’ve carried their sense of purpose beyond the badge. After retiring as a master sergeant following nearly four decades of service — including two tours in Iraq — Ylitalo found a new mission: helping fellow veterans heal alongside service dogs.
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As reported by the Concord Monitor, Ylitalo now works with Operation Delta Dog, a New Hampshire nonprofit that trains rescue dogs to support veterans with PTSD and other service-related challenges.
In his interview, Ylitalo shared that his own service dog, Tippy, has “helped [him] dramatically”—even motivating him to reengage with his community and try things he never thought possible. “It’s not about me anymore,” he said. “I need to help support the dog. It’s no longer looking inwards, you’re looking outwards.”
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Operation Delta Dog was founded in 2010 with a dual mission: to help veterans coping with PTSD, traumatic brain injury and military sexual trauma — and to give shelter dogs a second chance at life. By rescuing dogs and training them as specialized service companions, the organization creates powerful, lasting bonds that support both healing and independence. Based in Hollis, New Hampshire, Operation Delta Dog provides this life-changing program at no cost to veterans, recognizing that those who’ve served shouldn’t have to fight alone.
