Supporting US War Dogs Association
NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Platinum country music recording artist, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Miranda Lambert and her nonprofit, MuttNation Foundation, are showing support for the brave military service dogs that have risked their lives alongside our heroic soldiers.
Miranda said, “I’ve always known that service dogs – especially military dogs – are extraordinary animals. When I heard Lucca’s story, I knew MuttNation should be involved.” Lucca, a highly decorated, trained military service dog served six years with tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. When a leg amputation was required after she was severely injured by an IED, Lucca was reunited with her original handler, Retired Master Sergeant Chris Willingham, where she lived the rest of her life in a caring, loving home. Lucca was posthumously honored at the 2021 Cowgirl Hall of Fame just a few weeks ago, when Miranda and four other outstanding and accomplished women were inducted. Miranda continued, “I met Master Sergeant Chris Willingham, who is now President of US War Dogs Association, and the whole experience was something I couldn’t – and didn’t want to forget. More importantly, I knew MuttNation could help.” See Lucca’s story here: 2021 St. Reckless Award Recipient Lucca K458 – YouTube
US War Dogs was founded over 20 years ago. The organization honors and supports more than 1,100 retired military service dogs across the country with a number of programs, including a free prescription medication program for the dogs — MuttNation is donating $20,000 in support of this program.
When told of MuttNation’s gift to the organization, President of US War Dogs, Master Sergeant Chris Willingham said, “When I met Miranda, she showed a genuine interest and compassion for the military working dog community” adding, “MuttNation’s generous donation is providing more than support for our retired dogs – because if you take care of the dog, you are taking care of the Veteran on the other end of the leash.”
Every day, and especially on Veterans Day, MuttNation asks that you take the time to remember, thank and show support for our heroic soldiers – and the amazing military service dogs that have served with them, side by side.