At Warrior Canine Connection, dogs hold a special place in our hearts—and in the world. They’re the stars of countless movies, the subjects of beloved books, and the inspiration behind many iconic songs. We asked our team to share their favorite dog-themed tunes or those tied to a cherished memory with a furry friend. Check out their picks and add some canine-inspired joy to your summer “paw-tify” playlist!
Song Title: Like My Dog by Billy Currington
“This song is about a dog’s unconditional love. It doesn’t matter what you do for work, how ‘lazy’ you are, or what you look like, your dog will always love you.”
– Samantha, development officer, WCC
Song Title: Home by Phillip Phillips
“This song holds a special place for me … It started playing on the car radio the day I brought my adopted dog, Witten, home from the shelter. He ended up in the shelter at around 4 yrs. of age when his owner passed away, and the gentleman’s family turned him over. Witten passed March of last year at 14, and I will always continue to think of him whenever this song plays.”
– Kevin, director of service dog training
Song title: Who Let the Dogs Out by Baha Men
“This song used to make my sisters and me crack up that they were actually barking in the song.”
– Cheyenna, service dog training instructor
Song Title: What I Am by Edie Brickell & New Bohemians
“Because religion is a smile on a dog!”
– Rick, founder and executive director
Song Title: Good Ol’ Dogs and God by Pryor & Lee
“The reason I love it is that I’ve always felt the pureness of a dog’s heart and soul is so deep that it feels like there is a link they create between us and what comes next. Also, I always think of when my little boy (now 35), Casey, came running to me one day and was sooooo excited to tell me that Dog was God spelled backward. He thought he was the first on earth to figure that out 😉. The joy in his face I will always remember.”
– Cheryl, puppy parent program manager
Song Title: This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race by Fall Out Boy
“As a teenager, I had a job walking a neighbor’s dog every afternoon after school. India was the sweetest chocolate labrador and we enjoyed our mile long daily walk, rain or shine, while jamming to this song on my iPod. (Does that age me? LOL)”
– Sarah, Veteran and Military Family Services Manager
Song Title: Black-Eye Dog by Colin James
“Colin James’ cover/rendition of the song is my favorite. It’s kind of like a song about depression … but I feel good about it, like that the dog sees me.”
– Brady, external relations manager
Song Title: Touch of Grey by the Grateful Dead
“I like it because you can’t keep from smiling when you’re singing along to this song in the car with the windows down and a dog in the back.”
– Mar, veteran training program manager
Song Title: The Black Dog by Taylor Swift
“Just an absolute banger! A little heart wrenching but worth the listen!”
– Riley, puppy development assistant
Song Title: Radio/Video by System of a Down
Lyrics:
“They take me away from
The strangest places
Sweet Danny and Lisa”
“This song refers to childhood memories helping take the singer out of the stress and pressure of life. Danny and Lisa are childhood friends that bring the good memories! It is similar to what our service dogs do for Veterans. They bring back those comforting memories during times of stress, though their bond and relationship. To me this is a good summer song, as it is upbeat, and summertime always brings back great memories for me!”
– Ketcher, service dog training instructor
Song Title: 40 Dogs by Bob Schneider
“The tempo and fun energy in this song actually reminds me of my dog’s personality; he’s always smiling with his tongue out and ready for fun. I can’t not be happy around him, kind of like when this song is playing.”
– Beth, media relations officer
Have a favorite song to add to the list? Let us know!
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LEAD spotlights first DOD firefighter and service animal team at the depot
Story by Taylor Mayberry
Letterkenny Army Depot
CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – For the first time in history, the Letterkenny Army Depot’s Fire and Emergency Services onboarded a firefighter and service animal team when Buddy Niner and his dog, Bea, joined LEAD on June 17.
Niner enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 2007 and deployed to Afghanistan for over nine months from 2009 to 2010. “I specifically chose the U.S. Marines because my dad was a Marine, and he was someone I always looked up to my entire life,” he said. Read the full story from DVIDS here.
Canine training and ‘the thing under the thing’ presented as PTSD, suicide prevention therapies
By Steven B. Brooks
Two different approaches to dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide prevention were shared on Aug. 23 with The American Legion TBI/PTSD Suicide Prevention Committee in New Orleans during the organization’s national convention. Read the full article from the American Legion.
Meet Barney: A Special Addition to WCC and the Washington Commanders
Warrior Canine Connection’s (WCC) Barney isn’t just another adorable pup—he’s a vital part of a transformative program helping Veterans in Frederick. At the Platoon Veteran Services Center (VSC), Barney is actively involved in WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) training, which supports Veterans dealing with a range of challenges, including PTSD. Since joining the program two months ago, Barney has logged more than 26 hours of training and quickly won over the hearts of participants.
In addition to basic obedience and loose leash walking, Barney’s training involves important socialization and behavioral skills. He’s learning alongside other service dogs in training, including WCC’s Pete, who is further along in his training journey. Over the next two years, Barney will continue his preparation, aiming to become a life-changing companion for a Veteran, thanks to the MBTR program’s comprehensive approach.
In June, Barney was named as the official team dog for the Washington Commanders. This unique role allows him to participate in community events and meet fans, further extending the impact of his training. The Washington Commanders Foundation is generously covering Barney’s training expenses, helping him along his path to becoming a service dog.
Barney was named in honor of Colonel Harvey Curtiss “Barney” Barnum Jr., a retired Marine Corps officer and Medal of Honor recipient for his actions during the Vietnam War. A meeting between the two namesakes may be on the horizon, further highlighting the special connection and honor associated with this remarkable dog.
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WCC Paw-tify Playlist: Tail-Wagging Tunes for Dog Lovers
Song Title: Like My Dog by Billy Currington
“This song is about a dog’s unconditional love. It doesn’t matter what you do for work, how ‘lazy’ you are, or what you look like, your dog will always love you.”
– Samantha, development officer, WCC
Song Title: Home by Phillip Phillips
“This song holds a special place for me … It started playing on the car radio the day I brought my adopted dog, Witten, home from the shelter. He ended up in the shelter at around 4 yrs. of age when his owner passed away, and the gentleman’s family turned him over. Witten passed March of last year at 14, and I will always continue to think of him whenever this song plays.”
– Kevin, director of service dog training
Song title: Who Let the Dogs Out by Baha Men
“This song used to make my sisters and me crack up that they were actually barking in the song.”
– Cheyenna, service dog training instructor
Song Title: What I Am by Edie Brickell & New Bohemians
“Because religion is a smile on a dog!”
– Rick, founder and executive director
Song Title: Good Ol’ Dogs and God by Pryor & Lee
“The reason I love it is that I’ve always felt the pureness of a dog’s heart and soul is so deep that it feels like there is a link they create between us and what comes next. Also, I always think of when my little boy (now 35), Casey, came running to me one day and was sooooo excited to tell me that Dog was God spelled backward. He thought he was the first on earth to figure that out 😉. The joy in his face I will always remember.”
– Cheryl, puppy parent program manager
Song Title: This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race by Fall Out Boy
“As a teenager, I had a job walking a neighbor’s dog every afternoon after school. India was the sweetest chocolate labrador and we enjoyed our mile long daily walk, rain or shine, while jamming to this song on my iPod. (Does that age me? LOL)”
– Sarah, Veteran and Military Family Services Manager
Song Title: Black-Eye Dog by Colin James
“Colin James’ cover/rendition of the song is my favorite. It’s kind of like a song about depression … but I feel good about it, like that the dog sees me.”
– Brady, external relations manager
Song Title: Touch of Grey by the Grateful Dead
“I like it because you can’t keep from smiling when you’re singing along to this song in the car with the windows down and a dog in the back.”
– Mar, veteran training program manager
Song Title: The Black Dog by Taylor Swift
“Just an absolute banger! A little heart wrenching but worth the listen!”
– Riley, puppy development assistant
Song Title: Radio/Video by System of a Down
Lyrics:
“They take me away from
The strangest places
Sweet Danny and Lisa”
“This song refers to childhood memories helping take the singer out of the stress and pressure of life. Danny and Lisa are childhood friends that bring the good memories! It is similar to what our service dogs do for Veterans. They bring back those comforting memories during times of stress, though their bond and relationship. To me this is a good summer song, as it is upbeat, and summertime always brings back great memories for me!”
– Ketcher, service dog training instructor
Song Title: 40 Dogs by Bob Schneider
“The tempo and fun energy in this song actually reminds me of my dog’s personality; he’s always smiling with his tongue out and ready for fun. I can’t not be happy around him, kind of like when this song is playing.”
– Beth, media relations officer
Have a favorite song to add to the list? Let us know!
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Honoring Allen Whitwell: A Legacy of Devotion to WCC
A Navy Veteran who served from 1957 to 1961, Allen worked in aviation while on active duty. He was stationed on the aircraft carrier Franklin Roosevelt in the Mediterranean, during the early years of the Vietnam War. His military experience fostered a deep empathy for fellow Veterans, particularly those struggling to reintegrate into civilian life after enduring the hardships of service. This empathy translated into a passionate commitment to WCC.
Allen’s generosity was evident in his active participation in WCC’s social media fundraising campaigns and his readiness to contribute to the organization’s wish list needs. Whether it was a fundraising competition on CrowdRise or an urgent need for supplies, Allen’s contributions always helped WCC surpass its goals.
When asked about his support, Allen simply said, “I feel so bad for some of the Veterans coming back and I want to do what we can to help them.” And like so many others, Allen said “Well at first, I came for the puppies, but I stayed for the mission. I had no idea what these puppies could do!”
In 2020, he received WCC’s Wag of the Tail Award, which recognized his significant contributions to the organization. However, Allen’s commitment to WCC extended beyond his lifetime. Upon his passing, Allen left an estate gift to support WCC, ensuring that his legacy of generosity would continue to benefit Veterans and their service dogs.
Allen’s gift has left a legacy at WCC and will be a huge support for many years to come. His bequest will not only fund current program needs, but also will be invested in the WCC Endowment Fund established earlier this year. The Endowment Fund was created to ensure that, far into the foreseeable future, Veterans will be able to heal from their visible and invisible wounds through WCC’s No-Fail Mission.
As we grieve Allen’s passing and reflect on his past steadfast support of WCC, we find comfort in knowing that his legacy of caring for fellow Veterans will continue in perpetuity. For all who have witnessed Allen’s kindness and generosity over the years, you know that his generous spirit will live on as he is among the first to join WCC’s Legacy Giving Society. For those inspired by Allen’s legacy, considering an estate gift or other planned giving options can be a powerful way to support WCC and leave a lasting impact on the lives of Veterans.
To learn more about how you can support Warrior Canine Connection and leave a legacy like Allen’s, please email giving@warriorcanineconnection.org. Your contribution can make a world of difference for Veterans in need and help continue the invaluable work that Allen so passionately supported.
WCC 2024 Graduation: Veterans and Service Dogs to Celebrate Paw-some Achievements
For those who wish to continue the celebration from online to in-person, WCC will also host a post-graduation ceremony reception later that afternoon. Our graduating teams and extended pack will enjoy good food, live music, barn tours, WCC store items for sale, a photo booth, fun activities and plenty of dogs!
The virtual graduation ceremony will take place online Saturday, Sept. 21 at 11 a.m. Eastern Time. The post-graduation reception, including a special barn dedication ceremony, will follow at WCC’s Healing Quarters in Boyds, Maryland at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Registration for the reception is required and will open Aug. 21 on the WCC website—stay tuned for the link and more details! This promises to be a fantastic celebration, we hope to see you there!
New Faces at WCC: Deborah Logan, Service Dog Training Apprentice
Deborah’s journey with WCC began when she met one of the original service dogs, WCC’s Cadence. As a volunteer puppy parent during her college years, she demonstrated her dedication to our mission. Recently, she graduated from the University of Maryland with a bachelor’s degree in animal science and even helped establish a new WCC training club at UMD. Deborah is passionate about continuing Cadence’s legacy and is eager to start her new role, using her love for dogs to positively impact Veterans’ lives.
“I’ve seen firsthand the impact service dogs can have on a Veteran, as well as their entire family,” said Deborah. “I’m excited to work for an organization I’ve been supporting for years and to learn and grow as a trainer.”
Outside of work, Deborah enjoys hiking with her black Lab, Oasis, and Sherri, the third WCC service dog in training she’s raising. We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the great work she will do with WCC!
Who let the dogs out and into the podcast studio?
Rick Yount has been involved in animal-assisted therapy for the past 22 years. He combined his social work knowledge and service dog training background to develop a novel intervention to help servicemembers who have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Learn more in this week’s episode of The American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast here.
Washington Commanders announce team dog, Barney
During the off season, the Commanders have made the most of free agency with the addition of Barney as Wide Retriever.
WASHINGTON — The draft might be over, but the new additions have not stopped for the Washington Commanders as they add a new addition to their 2024 roster — and this one will paws-itively have a ball. Check out the full story from WUSA 9 here.
Washington Commanders announce team dog, Barney, in partnership with Warrior Canine Connection
LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. – Today, the Washington Commanders announced the newest addition to the 2024 roster, Team Dog Barney, an 11-week-old black Labrador Retriever from Warrior Canine Connection (WCC). A nonprofit based in Boyds, Maryland, WCC breeds, trains and places highly skilled service dogs with Veterans who have sustained physical and psychological wounds while in service to our country. Barney’s arrival marks the beginning of the Commanders’ partnership with WCC.
“The Commanders are proud to support the country’s largest community of active-duty military personnel, veterans, retirees, and their families.” said Commanders President Jason Wright. “We are honored to partner with the Warrior Canine Connection in our efforts to give back to those in the DMV who have bravely served our nation.”
All WCC’s service dogs in training are named in honor of veterans, both past and present. The Washington Commanders named Barney in honor of Colonel Harvey Curtiss “Barney” Barnum Jr., a retired United States Marine Corps officer who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Vietnam War.
“Colonel Barnum exhibited true dedication to service throughout his career and into his retirement.” said veteran and Washington Salute Lead, Chris Bailey. “We’re proud to have the opportunity to honor him for his heroic actions and continued commitment to the community.”
Barney will spend approximately two years in training, where he will learn to support the veteran he is paired with after his training is complete. This includes WCC’s Mission Based Trauma Recovery (MBTR) training program, which helps veterans with increased impulse control, sleep and emotional regulation, as well as decreased levels of stress, depression and hypervigilance. During his training, Barney will impact the lives of up to 60 Veterans.
The team has made the most of free agency this off season and the addition of Barney as Wide Retriever is no exception. As Barney goes through training, he will make various guest appearances at Commanders’ games, where he will meet fans and participate in various community events. Throughout the season, the Washington Commanders Foundation will help cover Barney’s training expenses to ensure he fulfills his dream of becoming a life-changing companion for a worthy veteran.
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