[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 181 (Thursday, November 2, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1049]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        DOGS OF HONOR GRADUATION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. JEFFERSON VAN DREW

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 2, 2023

  Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this month, I had the honor of attending 
the New Jersey Dogs of Honor Graduation ceremony. The New Jersey Dogs 
of Honor is a nonprofit program founded in 2018 with a noble mission: 
to provide rescue service dogs, who faced the prospect of euthanasia, 
to military veterans diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress. This 
initiative is a collaborative effort involving Maurice River Township 
Firefighters, Ted's Pet Country Club, Veterans Affairs, local 
businesses, and individuals who hold a deep appreciation for the 
courageous men and women who have served our nation. During the recent 
graduation ceremony on October 14th, we had the honor of witnessing the 
bond between these veterans and their loyal canine companions. On this 
day, we celebrated Roger Asher with his dog Gunny, Diana Pitman with 
Finn, Thomas Huck with Sasha, David Clemenko with Milo, William Hannum 
with Bailey, and Mario Bellasci with Tucker. These veterans and their 
dogs represent the spirit of resilience, hope, and companionship. As we 
commemorate this occasion, let us recognize the significance of such 
initiatives in supporting our veterans as they navigate the challenges 
of Post-Traumatic Stress. God Bless the Dogs of Honor and God Bless the 
United States of America.

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