March 28th – Blinded Veterans Day
Blinded Veterans Day was established by Congress in 2010 to honor the efforts of the Blinded Veterans Association (BVA) to promote the establishment and improvement of rehabilitation services and benefits for America’s blinded veterans. Please join all of us at Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation as we recognize and support the BVA’s dedication to helping veterans and their families meet the challenges associated with blindness and achieve increased independence through services, support, and community.
On this Blinded Veterans Day, we recognize veterans including Retired U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant and Fidelco client Gary Traynor. Gary joined the Air Force in 1982 as an aircraft welder machinist. He developed cone-rod dystrophy while serving and was medically retired in 1999. Since that time, Gary has continued to dedicate much of his life to helping other blinded veterans.
Gary was partnered with Fidelco Guide Dog, “Reuben,” in 2014. Gary describes Reuben as “second to none,” helping Gary move independently and confidently through his BVA activities, as well as his remodeling projects, a vacation and pontoon rental business, and fishing.
Gary actively serves as a member of several Veteran Service Organizations. Among his leadership roles, he is currently Vice President of the Midwest North Regional Group of BVA. With Reuben by his side, Gary continues to help other veterans who are blind learn about services and benefits available to them, including training, adaptive devices, and guide dogs.
Throughout its history, Fidelco has demonstrated a continued commitment to supporting America’s blinded veterans. With your support, Fidelco is moving forward to provide increased independence for people who are blind through trusted guide dog partnerships.
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