Operation Warrior Shield

Throughout September, the Merkouris family is honored to partner with Operation Warrior Shield's Canine Companion Program in honor of our husband and father, George Merkouris.

George's life was tragically taken on September 11, 2001, in one of our history's most devastating attacks. While our family and entire nation were grieving this fatal day, there were those who took action to defend, protect, and provide help to those affected by this event. These Veterans and First Responders stood strong in the face of tragedy and continued fighting to protect us.

For those who had the honor of knowing George, you know his zest for life, unconditional love and a sense humor. He exuded love for his family and friends and 22 years after his passing, there is still not a day that goes by that we don’t miss him. We were all lucky to love and be loved by George. There was nothing he loved more than disco dancing, being the first to dive into the cold ocean or pranking his friends and co-workers. He made the world a better place and we plan to keep his memory alive by always trying to live life as he did. That is why this this September, in partnership with Operation Warrior Shield and Hope for Heroes, we have chosen to support a Veteran or First Responder in need by covering the cost of training a service dog. 100% of the proceeds fundraised will benefit Operation Warrior Shield and will be used to train our service dog.

Operation Warrior Shield's Canine Companion Program aims to provide uniquely trained, loving, and supportive canine companions to our Veterans, First Responders, and their families who live with physical and emotional injuries incurred in the line of duty. The Canine Training Program is designed to assess the individual recipient's needs and wants in a canine companion. Trainers then tailor the instructional program to ensure the canine is proficient in providing the emotional and physical support needed. Training through the Canine Training Program provides the most individualized and custom support we can offer to our Heroes.

Their companion dogs unconditionally bring a sense of safety, camaraderie, and, most importantly, a special emotional support that helps reduce the stresses and challenges our Heroes face daily.

Service dogs receive hours of training to be ready to support our Veterans and First Responders. In partnership with Hope for Heroes and their training staff (comprised of numerous police K9 instructors who will provide training for each Canine Companion), our dog will begin instruction as an eight-week-old puppy and complete all aspects of training straight through to the finish: with the final step being placement of this now trained puppy with her new family. Hope for Heroes will continue this training with the Hero and their new companion until all parties are comfortable and have bonded.

We want to raise $15,000 throughout September to train our chosen service dog. The dog will serve as an honor to the memory of George while providing love, companionship, and support to her new family.

While we are still identifying this family who will receive the dog, training with Hope for Heroes has begun.

We salute and honor our Heroes for their service. Operation Canine Companion and Operation Warrior Shield are just some of the ways we sincerely show our appreciation. With your help, we can provide our heroes with an arsenal of tools to help heal their hidden wounds.

Thank you again for helping us honor the memory of our father and husband, George Merkouris.

We thank you all for your support.

Love,

Koula, Jack, Elizabeth, and Steve Merkouris

100% of donations to this fundraiser will go directly to Operation Warrior Shield, a registered 501 © 3. Their EIN is: 81-1268470. For tax purposes, after you make your donation, you will receive an email with your information.

George with his wife, Koula, and three kids, Jack, Elizabeth, and Steve.

George with his three kids, Jack, Elizabeth, and Steve.

George cliff diving in Greece.