David Hughes, a Georgetown American Legion member, started Mission K9 Warrior to unite Veterans with service dogs.

Karl is a Vietnam Veteran, or as he calls himself, a Vietnam Survivor. When he was discharged in 1967, the memories of life on the front lines and the carnage he saw continued to haunt him. Still, 50 years later, Karl has nightly nightmares remembering some of his brothers that didn’t return home.

Life was a struggle for Karl until last April, when he was gifted a service dog from Mission K9 Warrior. His dog is named Sargent Major Bigfoot. When Karl is in the middle of a nightmare, Bigfoot wakes him. When Karl is daydreaming, Bigfoot paws at his legs. When Karl is having a tough time emotionally, Bigfoot snaps him out of it.
Since April, Karl has spent a lot less time in Vietnam and a lot more time with his family.

Every Veteran struggling with PTSD deserves the chance to have a service animal. Unfortunately, they cost around $20,000. Luckily, Tony Piatt of Tilton is a Veteran and animal trainer and helps Mission K9 Warrior acquire and train the dogs for much less.

Donate now to Honor Fund. ALL donations will go directly to the Georgetown American Legion so they can continue their mission.

Are you a Veteran with PTSD? Do you think a service dog may be right for you? Here’s how to get on the list.