‘I Want to Help Other Veterans’

Veteran Charles Hoisington is #StillServing with the VFW alongside his service dog, Dodger, who was gifted to him by the nonprofit organization Northwest Battle Buddies.

"Dodger gave me a sense of purpose," Hoisington said.

Before the pair met, Hoisington described himself as a recluse who was filled with anger, fear and loneliness. After they united, Hoisington rejoined the VFW and gained the courage to venture into public.

Hoisington is a VFW Gold Legacy Life member who also helped sign the charter for the new VFW Post 12228 in Stanwood, Washington, and attended the VFW Department Convention with Dodger this summer.

Hoisington gives Dodger all the credit for enabling him to continue serving and give back to the community.

"I now have something meaningful in my life, and it makes me want to help other veterans," he said.