Four Paws: One Big Mission

Hi, I’m TJ.

You may have seen me on television, at media day or posing for my first official Washington Commanders photo shoot. Humans keep telling me Aug. 7, Military Appreciation Day at the Commanders Training Camp, is a big one. My raiser even added a little paw print to her calendar, so it must be true! Not bad for a puppy.

But while I may be the Washington Commanders’ newest Team Dog, football isn’t my only mission.

I get to learn new things every day because I’m on my way to becoming a Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) service dog for a Veteran. That means learning good manners, building confidence and practicing the skills I’ll one day use to help someone who has served our country.

Barney was WCC’s first Team Dog with the Commanders, so I know I have some pretty big pawprints to fill—and I’ll do my best to follow in them.

My name has a special story, too. I’m named after Army Veteran and Redwire employee Jeremy White, whose military call sign was “TJ1.” Jeremy spent more than two decades serving our country, including as a Green Beret, before continuing his commitment to service as a civilian. I hope to honor that legacy in my own way.

At home, my puppy raisers, Heidi and Stu, describe me in one word: exuberant. They might also tell you I’m curious, brave, energetic, snuggly, smart and very food motivated. (Treats make learning fun.) They’d also tell you I love football.

Training has been going really well. I don’t mean to wag my own tail, but while some pups get rattled by loud noises, I snoozed through an entire night of Fourth of July fireworks like a champ. Storms? No big deal. Every new experience helps me grow into the service dog I’m meant to become.

Heidi and Stu tell me they know their hearts will ache when it’s time for me to leave. But they’ve been on this journey before, and they’ve seen the incredible difference a service dog can make in a Veteran’s life. That’s what keeps them saying “yes,” because they know a little heartbreak now can help bring healing to someone else. Until then, we’re making the most of every day together. Between you and me, I couldn’t have asked for better paw-rents.

I’m already three times bigger than when I arrived, and I’m growing every day, not just in size, but in confidence and purpose. (My paws seem to be growing even faster!)

This season, you’ll see me cheering on the Burgundy & Gold, making appearances and soaking up new experiences. Every game, every crowd and every new adventure is helping prepare me for the most important role of all: becoming a future service dog for a Veteran.

Now that’s a season worth cheering for.
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