Service Dog “Jimmy” Named in Honor of Iconic Actor Jimmy Stewart

BOYDS, Maryland — As the holiday season approaches, Warrior Canine Connection (WCC) announces a heartwarming tribute to the legendary actor Jimmy Stewart (1908-1997). A WCC service dog in training has been named after the iconic star, to recognize his distinguished service as a Brigadier General in the U.S. Army.

Jimmy Stewart, renowned for his roles in classic holiday films such as “It’s a Wonderful Life,” is often remembered for his cinematic legacy. However, many may not be aware of his heroic military service. Stewart served from 1941-1947 during World War II. During that time, he was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses and four Air Medals, as well as the French Croix de Guerre. The newly named service dog in training aims to pay homage to Stewart’s patriotic and impactful life.

“During this holiday season, so many watch the iconic Christmas movie “It’s a Wonderful Life” starring Jimmy Stewart,” said Rick Yount. “While they recognize his Hollywood achievements, our hope is to build awareness of his incredible patriotic service and sacrifice throughout his military career.”

The WCC namesake nomination was put forth by the Jimmy Stewart Museum. The museum, which was founded in 1995, is based in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Stewart’s hometown.

Stewart’s daughter, Kelly Stewart Harcourt, who granted WCC permission to use her father’s name, shared, “I assure you that NOTHING would have made my father or mother prouder than to have one of these marvelous animals bearing Dad’s name. They would have considered it a high honor as does our family.”

WCC’s namesake program not only reflects the organization’s commitment to providing service dogs for Service Members and Veterans but also to recognizing the remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation. All WCC’s dogs are named after Veterans both past and present.

For more information about WCC and its namesake program, visit warriorcanineconnection.org.

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About Warrior Canine Connection
Warrior Canine Connection is a pioneering organization that utilizes a Mission Based Trauma Recovery model to empower returning combat Veterans who have sustained physical and psychological wounds while in service to our country. Based on the concept of Warriors helping Warriors, WCC’s therapeutic service dog training program is designed to mitigate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and other challenges, while giving injured combat Veterans a sense of purpose, and help in reintegrating back into their families and communities. For more information, visit www.warriorcanineconnection.org.