A Hero’s Legacy: Wilbur Meets WCC’s Wilbur

There are moments that remind us why we do what we do—and for the team at Warrior Canine Connection (WCC), one of them came recently when Wilbur “Jack” Myers, a 101-year-old World War II Veteran, met his namesake: Wilbur, a WCC service dog in training. 

The adorable yellow Labrador Retriever puppy was named after Wilbur “Jack” Myers through WCC’s Namesake Program, which honors the legacies of Veterans past and present by naming each service dog in training after a Veteran. It’s a gesture of remembrance and respect, but more than that, it’s a way of weaving each Veteran’s story into the next generation of healing and service. The meeting between the two Wilburs was a powerful reminder of the deep connections and impact behind each name. 

Jack Myers is one of the last surviving members of the Battle of the Bulge, one of the most significant and harrowing campaigns of World War II. Drafted in 1943, Myers served as an anti-tank gunner with the 692nd Tank Destroyer Battalion, supporting the 104th Infantry Division and later joining Patton’s Army. His battalion played a critical role in defending along the Ruhr River and advancing through Europe. For his valor, Myers was awarded the Bronze Star. Like many Veterans of his generation, he carried the emotional toll of the war silently for decades, only later sharing the full weight of his experience. 

“Meeting a World War II Veteran is an incredible honor—humbling, really,” said Rick Yount, founder and executive director, Warrior Canine Connection. “These heroes are living links to history, to stories we may never fully know but should never forget. With each handshake, you’re reminded why they’re called the Greatest Generation. It’s a privilege to share even a moment in their presence.”

Now, more than 80 years later, his name will continue to serve—through four paws and a wagging tail. WCC’s Wilbur is being raised to become a service dog for a fellow Veteran, carrying with him not just a name, but a legacy of courage, resilience and dedication.  

WCC’s Namesake Program ensures that stories like Myers’ are never forgotten—they live on through every command learned, every Veteran comforted, and every life changed. 

As WCC continues to expand its reach and impact, the heart of its mission remains the same: honoring those who have served by training future service dogs who will support and heal their fellow Veterans. It’s a mission that begins with a name—and continues with a lifetime of service. 

Jack Myers is set to return to Normandy for the 81st D-Day Remembrance later this year—his 20th visit to the historic site.
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