Air Force Vet Turns PTSD Battle Into Hope For Veterans And Shelter Dogs

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.

Ernesto Hernandez, a U.S. Air Force veteran and current Fairfax County resident, is one of the many who’ve carried their sense of purpose beyond the badge. As reported by the Fairfax County Times, Hernandez served 21 years in the Air Force and earned a Purple Heart for injuries sustained in Iraq. Once he returned home, Hernandez faced daunting challenges with PTSD. But the bond he formed with Daisy, a shelter dog who became his first service dog, changed his life forever.

Daisy’s love and devotion inspired Hernandez to start the Wounded Paw Project in 2013. The local nonprofit rescues dogs from high-kill shelters and trains them to serve veterans and others in need of a loyal, life-changing companion. Hernandez shared that while he’s not a dog trainer by trade, he’s learned to “speak dog” and help transform abused or abandoned animals into trusted service dogs for those facing physical and emotional struggles.

Through his work with the Wounded Paw Project, Hernandez continues to embody the military creed of “Service Before Self” — and enables the shelter pets he works with to do the same.

Want to learn more or get involved? Visit Wounded Paw Project to see how you can help rescue, train or support service dogs for veterans in need.

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