Canine Volunteer of the Year

An 8-year-old therapy dog named Sapper is being celebrated after being named the USO Canine Volunteer of the Year for his work supporting military families and service members at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. Sapper, an Alaskan husky known for wearing sunglasses and a maroon beret, regularly visits the USO center alongside his handler, Army veteran Mike D’Arcy, where he offers hugs, cuddles, and stress relief to troops preparing for deployment or returning home. Beyond the base, Sapper also visits schools, hospitals, libraries, and hospice patients, bringing comfort to people facing difficult moments. Those who know him say he has an instinct for sensing when someone needs emotional support, often helping lift spirits simply by sitting beside them. After receiving thousands of public votes in the national competition, Sapper’s recognition is shining a light on the important role therapy dogs play in supporting mental health, morale, and connection within military communities.

Image via USO

Read other stories from the 5/25/26 newsletter:

UK’s Fostering Innovation Fund

Mountaineers Break Everest Records

94-Year-Old Bell Toller