Decorated Marine Corp. Veteran Michael Jernigan and his guide dog Treasure to visit NTC on behalf of Southeastern Guide Dogs to accept donation for Veterans Day.
Michael Jernigan enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on his 24th birthday, sworn in by his father and fulfilling a lifetime dream of becoming a third generation Marine. Deployed in Iraq, a roadside bomb threw his body, mangled his hand and knee, crushed his forehead, destroyed his eyes, and injured his brain. He is the first service member to lose both eyes in the Global War on Terror. Michael went through 30 major surgeries in 12 months and spent 16 months in hospitals and rehab facilities. He medically retired in 2005 and was awarded the Purple Heart and Combat Action Ribbon for his service.
Michael thought his life was over—until he met his first guide dog, Brittani. Michael co-founded Paws for Patriots™, the arm of Southeastern Guide Dogs serving veterans, and was the first Paws for Patriots™ recipient. Brittani helped Michael regain his independence and she also helped him manage the anxiety he felt because of combat-related PTSD. With Brittani at his side, Michael finished his degree from the University of South Florida and began a civilian career. Brittani retired in February 2015, and Michael received his new superhero, a spirited yellow Lab named Treasure, in August.
Today Michael serves as Community Outreach Specialist at Southeastern Guide Dogs. As a keynote speaker, he inspires audiences with stories of intercepting challenges and overcoming adversity. He also provides peer-to-peer counseling for other veterans and has remained active in veterans’ affairs.
Michael will be at NTC next week to accept a donation check of $500 for Southeastern Guide Dogs and to meet with NTC's veterans. It is our way of saying "Thank You" to those who have served and helped gain us our freedom!
