Together for Veterans: Team Foster & WCC in Action

At Warrior Canine Connection (WCC), we are fortunate to collaborate with incredible partners who share our mission of serving Veterans. One of those valued partners is Team Foster, a nonprofit that has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us to help more Veterans access the healing power of service dogs. Together, we’ve been able to make an extraordinary impact — and we couldn’t be more grateful. 

Team Foster was founded by Army Reservist and attorney Nick Liermann in memory and honor of his treasured friend, Captain Erick Foster, who was killed in action in Iraq. Nick wanted to ensure Erick’s legacy would live on by supporting other Veterans facing visible and invisible wounds of war. What began as a heartfelt tribute has grown into a thriving nonprofit with a powerful mission: “No Hero Left Behind.” Through events, fundraising and community outreach, Team Foster works tirelessly to educate, advocate, community-build and raise funds to help service dog organizations, including WCC, provide these highly skilled dogs to Veterans at no cost. 

In 2024, WCC honored Team Foster with a Wag of the Tail Award in recognition of their outstanding partnership. To date, Team Foster has contributed $500,000 in support of WCC, helping expand our programs in Pennsylvania that train and place highly skilled service dogs with Veterans living with physical and psychological wounds. Their generosity continues to make a real and lasting impact. 

In Philadelphia, Team Foster’s funding is supporting the training of Tugger, the second “Phillies Pup,” a WCC service dog in training named after U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and late Phillies great Tug McGraw. Earlier support helped train Major, who is now thriving with a military family. In Pittsburgh at Duquesne University, Team Foster’s financial support enables Veterans in the community to participate in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program, directly extending the reach and impact of these vital programs.

“Nick and Team Foster are dogged in their passion for serving Veterans,” said Rick Yount, founder and executive director, WCC. “Their continued support helps us train more dogs, reach more Veterans and deliver on our shared mission of healing. We’re proud to work side-by-side with Team Foster to serve those who served us.”

And from Team Foster’s side, Nick will tell you this partnership is about more than just financial support — it’s about shared values, community and honoring the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes. 

“Captain Foster didn’t just push himself, he inspired those around him to take care of each other,” shared Liermann. “The partnership between WCC and Team Fosters embodies Captain Foster’s legacy of showing up for our community, pushing one another and connecting through a shared sense of purpose to take care of our teammates.” 

At WCC, we know we cannot do this work alone. Partners like Team Foster remind us that when people come together in support of our Veterans, the possibilities are endless. To Nick, the Team Foster staff and Board, their volunteers and every supporter who makes this work possible — thank you. 

Together, we’re making sure no hero is left behind.
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Celebrating WCC’s Class of 2025

Warrior Canine Connection proudly celebrated the 2025 Graduation of its Veteran Service Dog Teams and assistance dogs on September 20 — and what a celebration it was! The virtual ceremony tugged at heartstrings with touching stories from Veterans and volunteers, this year’s Wag of the Tail Award winners and inspiring keynote remarks from U.S. Army Veteran and Maryland Governor Wes Moore.

The festivities didn’t stop online — more than 600 members of the WCC community gathered in person at the WCC Healing Quarters in Boyds, Maryland. Guests traveled from near and far to enjoy delicious food and pup-friendly treats, live music, photo booth, tours of our beautifully renovated barn, and most importantly, to connect and celebrate the incredible achievements of our Veterans and military families and the dogs who support them. This year’s event was made paw-sible thanks to the love and dedication of our volunteers and supporters.

Congratulations to all our graduates, and a huge thank-you to the volunteers and supporters who make this life-changing work possible!

Missed the live stream — or want to watch again? Watch the full WCC 2025 Graduation ceremony here.
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WCC in the News: NBC’s TODAY

WCC Puppy Raiser Extraordinaires Jane and Pat Hipsley were recently featured on NBC’s TODAY, highlighting the national shortage of Puppy Raiser volunteers and the incredible impact they have on programs, like our own. Their dedication — and the efforts of all our amazing Puppy Raisers — makes WCC’s work possible. This story celebrates the heart and reach of our volunteer community and shows what we can achieve when passionate people step up to help.

We’re actively seeking volunteers to join this amazing effort! Becoming a WCC Puppy Raiser gives you the chance to transform lives, and we’re making these opportunities more flexible so you can contribute in ways that fit your schedule and lifestyle.

Watch NBC’s TODAY story here and be inspired. Want to get involved? Learn more about being a WCC Puppy Raiser here.
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Honoring Veterans, One Name at a Time


Did you know every service dog and service dog-in-training at Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) is named in honor of a Veteran? While most know WCC for our unique animal-assisted therapy program Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) and placing service dogs with Veterans, we also celebrate Veterans through our namesake program.  

The namesake program, which began in 2013, is a way to honor and celebrate Veterans by saying their names and telling their stories. We receive name nominations from the public, though we are currently only accepting female name nominations due to the large number of male nominations we already have waiting.  

Naming a service dog in training after a Veteran means a lot to the namesake families, especially knowing that the dog named in their honor will be serving Veterans and the Veteran community. Here are just a few of the testimonials we have received from namesake families: 

“Oh, wow. That’s my father. So happy to see Chappy carrying on service to our country.” 

“Thank you SO much for this announcement and designation. We are all so touched at this honor for our father and know that William will be an inspiration for both he and his companion.  

“I am excited, and I’m sure Steve is too, that our dad is also going to have a puppy named after him. He was an animal lover, just like our mom.” 

“Omg! This was the last thing I expected to see this morning. I’m his big brother. We served together. Thank you so much. This means so much to our family.” 

“We served together in the Corps him, his brother, my best friend Casey, all holding it down for Hollywood Florida, like it was our own battalion. He was loud, wild, and had more energy than a six pack of rip it. We miss him.” 

“Thank you so very much. I am overwhelmed by your organization’s honoring me by naming one of your Warrior puppies after me. Coming at the holiday season this is especially meaningful as I spent Christmas 1970 in Da Nang 54 years ago. I appreciate the very nice write up on Facebook along with the picture of me and my namesake.  The picture was taken in Da Nang in 1971 and was a favorite of my parents.” 

“I feel it to be such an honor that my grandmother’s name is connected to such an important helpmate for a Veteran of today.” 

Not only is it impactful to the namesake family, but the Veterans who end up being placed with a WCC dog also find it powerful. They often reflect about how much it means that the dog they are placed with is also carrying the name and story of a fellow Veteran. 

If you have a female name nomination you would like to submit, please fill out this form: https://warriorcanineconnection.tfaforms.net/4899776 
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Meet Tugger, the Phillies’ Rookie with a Mission

Meet Tugger, the newest four-legged rookie to join the Philadelphia Phillies lineup with a mission that reaches far beyond the ballpark. Tugger is a service dog in training with Warrior Canine Connection (WCC), and his training is supported by the Phillies Charitable Foundation and nonprofit partner, Team Foster. 

All WCC’s dogs are named after Veterans past and present. Tugger is named in honor of beloved Phillies icon Tug McGraw, the legendary relief pitcher who helped lead the team to its first World Series title in 1980. Off the field, McGraw also served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. 

Tugger is the second pup sponsored by the Phillies and Team Foster, following WCC service-dog-in-training Major. Over the next 18–24 months, he’ll take part in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program, training alongside Philadelphia-area Veterans. This process not only prepares Tugger to become a future service dog for a Veteran with visible or invisible wounds but also provides therapeutic benefits to those helping train him—like reduced anxiety, improved communication, and a renewed sense of purpose. 

Tugger’s journey is just beginning, and he’s already captured hearts with his big-league energy and wagging tail. Backed by the Phillies, Team Foster, The Tug McGraw Foundation and Warrior Canine Connection, he’s more than a lovable pup—he’s training to become a life-changing service dog for a Veteran in need. As he embarks on this important mission, the city of Philadelphia is behind him, ready to cheer him on every step of the way. 

Watch Tugger’s national TV debut on Good Morning America here.
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WCC’s Jimmy Meets Namesake’s Daughter

Visitors to the Jimmy Stewart Museum’s recent 30th anniversary celebration in Indiana, Pennsylvania, came for the nostalgia, movie memories and a touch of Hollywood history—but it was a four-legged guest who stole the spotlight. The surprise star of the event? Warrior Canine Connection’s (WCC) Jimmy, a Labrador Retriever and service dog in training named in honor of the iconic Jimmy Stewart.

WCC’s Jimmy is one of the Service Dogs-in-Training at WCC’s program site located at Duquesne University—and the only dog with a name that honors a beloved local legend. The on-campus site offers WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) training program to Veteran students and community members. MBTR taps into the power of the human-animal bond by having Veterans train service dogs for fellow Warriors. Along the way, those participating in the program often experience their own therapeutic benefits, building connection and a renewed sense of purpose, while also improving sleep, emotional regulation and impulse control, and reducing stress, depression and hypervigilance. 

At the event, Kelly Stewart-Harcourt, daughter of the late U.S. Army Veteran and Hollywood star Jimmy Stewart, had the chance to meet WCC’s Jimmy in person. She shared how moved she was when she was first approached about naming a future service dog after her father.

“All I thought was dad would be so happy—dad would be so proud to be working with this organization,” shared Stewart-Harcourt. 

WCC’s namesake program was created to honor and celebrate our nation’s heroes. Each of its service dogs in training is named after a Service Member or Veteran, both past and present, who has served our country. Jimmy Stewart was not only a treasured actor but also a decorated World War II pilot—known for his strong sense of patriotism and his deep love of animals, something some fans may remember from his touching poem, Beau, written about his own dog.  

At the museum that bears her father’s name, Stewart-Harcourt said it felt especially fitting that his legacy now includes helping Veterans in such a meaningful way. 

As she patted WCC’s Jimmy’s head, she added, “It’s just a perfect match.” 

Perfect, indeed.
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PTSD Awareness Month: Honoring Veterans and advancing healing

June marks Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, a time to recognize the invisible wounds many Veterans carry—and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting them in their healing journeys.

At WCC, we know that healing doesn’t always happen in a hospital room or through words alone. Sometimes, it happens through a quiet moment shared with a service dog in training. Through our Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program, Veterans engage in a unique form of therapy—one that involves training future service dogs for fellow Warriors.

The efficacy of MBTR training is becoming increasingly recognized as a powerful tool for those managing PTSD. The benefits are well-documented: reduced anxiety, improved social engagement, strengthened sense of purpose and the development of meaningful, trust-based connections.

One Veteran who recently completed WCC’s 8-week MBTR program reflected on the impact it had on him.

“It was an awesome experience with WCC. The ladies are awesome, the dogs are awesome. What else can you say about my amazing experience. Training the dogs and learning how to train them in some of their tasks really helped me with concentration and slowing my mind down. I suffer from PSTD, TBI and anxiety amongst other things. My wife literally said the one day I was always in a good mood was the day I had an hour with the dogs. Before or after going.”

WCC’s MBTR program is grounded in science, empathy and connection (and adorable dogs). Veterans participating in the program often report improvements in mood, social functioning and overall well-being. While a service dog is not a quick fix for PTSD, the structured interaction, responsibility and emotional bond created during training can make a lasting difference.

“It can be extremely challenging for many who have served to ask for, or even accept, assistance for themselves,” said Mar Leifeld, assistant director of MBTR programs, WCC. “I think the power of WCC’s MBTR program is in the fact that we are not saying ‘you need this to improve your PTSD symptoms,’ but rather, ‘we need YOU to help us prepare these dogs for a fellow Vet.’ We want our Veterans to know that they are valued, and their service is still needed in this country—even if what that service looks like may change as they progress through life.”

This month serves as a reminder: PTSD is real, and help is available. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing, but for many, programs like MBTR are a critical step forward.

If you or someone you know could benefit from WCC’s MBTR training, please reach out to Mar Leifeld at mbtr@warriorcanineconnection.org. And if you or a loved one needs immediate support, the Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255) is available 24/7.

Let’s use PTSD Awareness Month not only to recognize the challenges Veterans face but also to advocate for compassionate, evidence-based solutions that support their recovery—one paw at a time.
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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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Heroes with Heart: Honoring WCC Volunteers

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, a time to celebrate the dedicated individuals who give their time and talents to Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). Our volunteers are the backbone of our mission, playing a vital role in training and supporting service dogs that will one day assist military Veterans and their families. From Puppy Raisers and Sitters to event supporters and behind-the-scenes helpers, their commitment ensures WCC can continue making a meaningful impact.

In 2024 alone, 885 volunteers generously gave 142,803 hours of their time—an estimated value of $4,782,472.47. Their dedication directly impacts every aspect of WCC’s mission, from raising and training future service dogs to supporting events, administrative efforts, and community outreach. Their time, talents, and passion ensure that Veterans and their families receive the life-changing support of expertly trained service dogs, making a lasting difference in countless lives.

But what truly drives them to give so much of themselves? We asked, “What is your WHY?” and here’s what our amazing volunteers had to say.

“The change that happens after just a few visits in every Veteran we encounter. The smiles, conversations, hugs. I work with two very open and fun trainers, who don’t take themselves too seriously but always put the Veterans we serve first.”
– Robin Martin, WCC Asheville

“It brings me so much joy to see these dogs grow and learn, and to know how much they will help their veteran one day. The men and women of our Armed Forces give so much to all of us and deserve more given back to them than we provide. WCC helps bridge this gap but helps give people their lives back while creating an amazing community for all who volunteer in any capacity. These dogs touch every life they are a part of, and I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of this fantastic organization.”
– Hailey Swisher, WCC UMD/College Park

“Working with dogs is my dream job. Working with dogs that help other people is my dream fantasy. I’ve always wanted to help people, but I’m not much of a people person. Working with dogs that will eventually make the difference in someone’s life is the best way I can think of to contribute and to help repay those veterans who have sacrificed so much for us.”
– Anne Pickle, WCC NoVA

“I do because I can. This is how I give back to those who served our country. And puppies. Whose why isn’t puppies, right?”
– Jessica Rabin, WCC Baltimore

“I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact WCC dogs have—not only on the Veterans who are matched with and receive a service dog, but also on those who participate in their training through the Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) program. These dogs possess a special ability to connect with humans in ways that often transcend human-to-human interaction.”
– Karen Chiu, WCC Menlo Park

“Each of my todays = snuggles and puppy kisses for me. Each of my tomorrows = snuggles and puppy kisses for a Veteran.”
– Karen O’Malley, WCC NoVA

“I love the fact that the abundance of love I have in my heart for the dogs is translated to major impact on an individual’s quality of life or an organization’s quality of work.”
– Renee French, WCC Healing Quarters

“We come from a family of Veterans and have close friends who are Veterans. We joined WCC to give back to the community of heroes who have helped our country.”
– Stephanie and Fred Short, WCC Philadelphia

“I just love being a part of an organization that gives back. The WCC volunteers and staff have been so welcoming. I love going there and seeing the dogs and people. The setting is so peaceful.”
– Diane Fox, WCC Healing Quarters

At WCC, our volunteers aren’t just helping out—they’re making a real, lasting impact every single day. Their dedication brings comfort, healing, and hope to the Veterans we serve, and we simply couldn’t do this work without them. While National Volunteer Month is a great time to say thank you, we’re grateful for their commitment all year long. To every volunteer who plays a role in our mission—thank you for your time, passion, and unwavering support!

 

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Cuddles, Cookies and a Great Human

Dear Friends,

Hi there! Mike here—your friendly neighborhood Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) Ambassador Dog and, if I may say so myself, a rather distinguished gentleman. At nearly 11 years old, I’ve been around the block a few times, met incredible humans and learned a thing or two about life. But today, I want to tell you about someone truly special — Dennis O’Rourke.

Now, I know what you’re thinking — dogs can’t write. And you’re mostly correct. This is actually a bark-to-text situation (shoutout to technology). But trust me, if I could type, this story would still be worth telling.

Enter Dennis O’Rourke. Dennis showed up at WCC a little over two years ago, and let’s just say, he wasn’t in the best shape when we first met. He had recently lost Sandy, his wife of 35 years, and on top of that, he was navigating the long-term effects of a stroke. You could see the weight of the world on his shoulders. But here’s the thing about Dennis — he’s an Army Veteran, and if there’s anything I’ve learned from my time with Warriors, it’s that they never quit.

Dennis served 14 years in the U.S. Army, traveling all over the world — Frankfurt, Germany; Korea; California. The Army even trained him at IBM, where he became a whiz with electronics and mechanics (which, unfortunately, does not include dog treat dispensers — missed opportunity, Dennis). After the Army, his career took him to all over the world, including Australia, Sweden and Denmark. Pretty impressive for a guy who now spends his Thursdays happily covered in dog hair.

When Dennis first started visiting, he was quiet, seemed a little unsure of himself and —between you and me — he didn’t smell like dog treats. But week after week, he kept showing up. And then one Thursday, something magical happened …

Dennis brought cookies.

Not just any cookies — the best cookies. The kind that make a dog sit a little straighter, wag a little harder and momentarily forget any shred of “professional training.” My fellow canines and I may or may not lose our collective minds when Dennis walks in. Katie Hearne calls us “slightly unprofessional,” but let’s be honest — when a man brings treats AND pets you just right, how are you supposed to keep your composure?

But Dennis isn’t just the treat guy. Nope. He’s so much more.

Dennis has this thing he does — it’s quiet, simple, but pure magic. He grooms me. And let me tell you, not all humans have the patience for my golden locks. He sits down, takes his time, and brushes me with the gentleness of a best friend who just gets you. It’s not just about looking good (though, let’s face it, I’m a handsome fella). It’s about feeling safe, loved and cared for.

And Dennis? He’s got this way about him. He doesn’t rush. He doesn’t expect anything in return. He just shows up — week after week, brush in hand, kindness in his heart.

Dennis may have come to WCC looking for healing, but somewhere along the way, he started helping us heal, too. He may not play favorites (or so he says), but between you and me, I know I’ve got a special place in his heart. And on Thursdays? He’s got a special place in mine.

So, this Valentine’s Day, I want to say something important:

Dennis, thank you.

Thank you for the cookies.
Thank you for the cuddles.
Thank you for the grooming sessions.
Thank you for showing up — for us, for yourself and for everyone who needs a little love.

I’ll be waiting by the gate this Thursday, Dennis — tail wagging, ready for treats and looking forward to our weekly cuddle session.

With love (and a little extra dog hair),
Mike 🐾

Contact Us

14934 Schaeffer Road
Boyds, MD 20841

(T) 301.260.1111
info@warriorcanineconnection.org


Warrior Canine Connection
is a 501(c)(3)
Nonprofit Organization
# 45-2981579