Dayton Resident Recognized in National VFW Still Serving Campaign

Dayton resident Kenny Bass is being recognized in the national VFW Still Serving campaign, which celebrates veterans who continue to strengthen their communities after military service. A US Marine who served in Iraq, Bass founded The Battle Buddy Foundation to connect veterans with service dogs.

In 2012, after receiving his service dog, Atlas the Wonderdog, Bass’s life changed forever. More than a companion, Atlas was a lifeline as Bass faced the invisible wounds of war, from traumatic brain injury and PTSD to the challenges of reintegration. Atlas’ steady presence inspired Bass to co-found The Battle Buddy Foundation (TBBF), a nonprofit dedicated to helping other veterans experience the same life-changing support through trained service dogs.

For years, Atlas served by Bass’s side, traveling the country to advocate for veterans and demonstrate the healing bond between humans and service dogs. Named the 2017 American Humane Hero Dog of the Year, his impact continues to shine through The Battle Buddy Foundation and now the Atlas and Friends children’s book series—stories that teach kids about service, loyalty and the extraordinary ways animals help people.

Through TBBF, Bass has remained engaged in veteran and community service by advocating for service dogs and educating the public about the different types of working dogs.