Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) team members, along with WCC Veteran Service Dog Teams Ryan Boyles and Tommy II, and Jim Hancock and Izzy, were guests at a recent Blue Angels Foundation’s (BAF) reception. During the event, Dr. Mark Mykityshyn, Vice President of the BAF Board of Directors, introduced WCC as one of its operational partners and the recipient of a $50,000 gift to help expand the nonprofit’s programming.

“I know I speak for our entire team at the Blue Angels Foundation when I say we are proud to support Warrior Canine Connection because it provides life-changing programming for Veterans and their families,” said Dr. Mykityshyn. “We know service dogs are a crucial tool to combating PTSD, and the unique Mission Based Trauma Recovery training that Warrior Canine Connection provides offers a real therapeutic benefit and is a valuable resource to helping Veterans in their recovery.”

The Blue Angels Foundation is the charitable arm of the Blue Angels Association and is led by former members of the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron. The BAF’s mission is to have a positive impact on resolving post-traumatic stress among wounded Veterans by saving lives and promoting positive transitions for wounded Veterans and their families. With research and evidence pointing to the positive impact service dogs have on Service Members and Veterans, the BAF chose to support WCC.

Each year, the BAF aims to expand its footprint and impact in critical areas facing wounded Veterans and their families. Key areas of support include transitional housing, counseling, PTSD resolution, life skills, and providing employment opportunities for transitioning wounded Veterans.