NTC honors a special decorated Marine soldier and his Southeastern Guide Dog Treasure along with NTC veterans for Veterans Day.
On this very special day, the 240th birthday of the United States Marine Corps, NTC is proud to announce we made a contribution to an organization that helps save lives. Southeastern Guide Dogs trains and provides animals which help soldiers readjust back to civilian life. Purple Heart Award and Combat Action Ribbon Recipient Michael Jernigan credits the organization for saving his life.
In a room full of NTC Veterans, Michael reflected on his military career and the roadside bomb that almost ended his life and took his eyesight.
He said his life was "going nowhere" before he decided to join the military, and upon returning, realized more than anything that his return to civilian life was lonely. After he was partnered with his first guide dog Brittani, he saw his life change dramatically. He was able to graduate from college and become someone he is proud of. He also helped create Paws for Patriots, the part of the organization which serves military vets in need. Michael now travels the United States with his new buddy Treasure, a yellow lab who stands stoically next to her owner's side when her harness is on. Together, they help inspire and motivate veterans and speak about the charity's mission and how it could help a vet in need. As soon as Michael took her harness off, Treasure became just like any other puppy, full of affection, love and energy.
NTC was honored to receive these special guests in time for Veterans Day. After all, we owe all vets our freedom.
So happy Veterans Day to all those who have served!
About Southeastern Guide Dogs
Founded in 1982, we employ the latest in canine development and behavior research to create and nurture partnerships between visually impaired individuals and extraordinary guide dogs. We serve more than 400 graduates across the U.S. and continue to place more than 100 dogs each year into careers benefitting people with visual impairments, and veterans.
We provide all of our services free of charge and receive no government funding.
Visit http://www.guidedogs.org/ for more information.
