Garden State Times

On Saturday, Commissioner Melinda Kane joined the community to honor Sarge, a veteran service dog. Sarge’s owner, John Brouse, a veteran and Commander of American Legion FW Grigg Post 68, accepted the award on behalf of his service dog. The presentation took place before the annual “22” Challenge/Veteran Suicide Awareness Walk, aimed at raising awareness about veteran suicide and supporting those who have served.

“I’ve known John for years and I know the positive impact Sarge has had on him as a veteran and what Sarge means to John as a service dog,” Kane said. “I want to thank John for his service, and commend him and Sarge for everything they do for our veterans’ community here in Merchantville and throughout the county.”

John Brouse served in Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm in 1990 and was deployed to Southwest Asia in 1991. Upon returning home, he joined the American Legion FW Grigg Post #68 where he served as Post Commander. Through his involvement with the post, he has raised awareness about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicide prevention, and service dog protocols for veterans.

During June, the Merchantville American Legion Post hosts their annual Sarge’s “22” Challenge/Veteran Suicide Awareness Walk. Created by Brouse to raise funds for America’s VetDogs—a nonprofit providing service dogs to wounded veterans—the event honors his service companion Sarge. As a puppy, Sarge completed two years of training through America’s VetDogs and has been supporting Brouse ever since. Now eight years old, Sarge plays a vital role in Brouse's daily life by providing comfort during distressing times, retrieving items, and assisting with physical tasks.

To see photos from the event, click here.