Iditarod finisher Rick Casillo, Chairman/Founder of Battle Dawgs, and his wife, Jennifer, Lieutenant Colonel Alaska Air National Guard, Combat Veteran, own and operate Battle Dawgs. An incredible team (Board of Directors and staff) strives to help our combat veterans.
Battle Dawgs provides year round outdoor rehabilitative and therapeutic retreats for combat veterans. These camps are at no charge for warriors attending. Camps include Fly fishing, dog mushing, flight seeing, whitewater rafting, ocean fishing charters, hiking, jet boat tours, hiking, and Iditarod. On average the camps last 7 days.
The home base is located at ‘Camp Battle Dawgs’ in Talkeetna Ak. which sits on 640 acres. There is no paid staff and 90% of all donations goes to the warrior programs. They provide camps to warriors in Alaska and all across the U.S.
Rick says, “I have found that the best therapy for these warriors is bringing them back together again with their brother and sisters in a common place and theme. We like to call it ‘brotherhood therapy’. Blessed’ is the first word that comes to mind when I think about the lifestyle I am able to live. Working with veterans was something I have always wanted to do. So in 2012, my wife Jennifer and myself started Battle Dawgs and never looked back. After I met with our very first group of warriors, I knew right there my mission in life had changed. With this platform I intend to raise awareness for this worthy and much needed cause. Again, I can honestly say that working with these great Warriors has changed my focus on life. In return, I hope to share the great state of Alaska and all it has to offer with as many Warriors possible.”
Rick adds, “Thank you to all our sponsors, friends, and the entire Battle Dawgs family for your continued support. Without all of your generous support and contributions, none of this would be possible.”
The goal at Battle Dawgs is to use “Camp Battle Dawgs”, the Alaska-based lodge, and outpost camps to help our nation’s warriors reintegrate back into everyday life. Currently, 20% of our veterans suffer from PTSD and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Thats’s about 600,000 combat veterans in need of our help.
The Vision of Battle Dawgs: To empower our nation’s heroes through therapeutic and exciting experiences by harnessing the natural splendor of Alaska’s landscape and the majestic healing power of sled dogs.
The Purpose: provide unique, direct programs and services to honor and empower our nation’s heroes while raising awareness to the community.
The Motto: Helping our warriors one step at a time.
Please visit the Battle Dawgs website to learn more. Click here.
https://www.facebook.com/battledawg/
