Assistance Dogs International (ADI) is delighted to announce that one of its member programs in the US has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Community Service Citizens Award from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society.

The award recognizes America's VetDogs' “exceptional impact or mission in supporting our nation’s military service members and families.”

The Congressional Medal of Honor Society is made up of the 63 living recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor - the nation’s highest military award for valor. Each year it honors just five US citizens and only one non-profit organization for “demonstrating Medal of Honor Values” - courage, sacrifice, citizenship, integrity, commitment, and patriotism.

"We are honored to receive the 2024 Community Service Citizens Award from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society," said John Miller, President and CEO of America's VetDogs. "This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and supporters who work tirelessly to fulfill our mission of enhancing the lives of veterans and first responders with disabilities. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve those who have sacrificed so much for our country.”

America’s VetDogs Board Chair Don Dea, veteran Joe Worley together with his Service Dog Galaxie, and John Miller were presented with the Congressional Medal of Honor award during the ceremony in Fort Belvoir, Virginia.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone in our community for your hard work, time, dedication, and passion,” added Miller. “It is because of your efforts that America's VetDogs continues to lead the way and make a difference in the lives of so many. Together, we continue to make a profound and lasting impact on the lives of our nation's heroes.”

“On behalf of the whole ADI community, I want to congratulate America’s VetDogs for this honor and their tireless dedication to improving the lives of military veterans,” commented ADI Executive Director Chris Diefenthaler. “This prestigious award highlights the vital role of assistance dogs in aiding individuals with disabilities through the deep bond between humans and canines.”

For more information see America’s VetDogs press release and watch a video of the awards ceremony here.