Home Town Hero – Irwin Stovroff

By Dan Samaria
Publisher/YC
August 17,  2009

Here is today’s Hero Irwin Stovoff.

Irwin Stovroff is a WWII veteran who served in the 8th AF out of England. He flew 35 missions as a bombardier, was shot down, became a POW in Germany and at the wars end was liberated by the Russian army. He was awarded the Air Medal, Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, and the French Legion of Honor medal.

Upon retirement Irwin became a volunteer Service Officer for Ex-POWs at the V.A. center in Palm Beach Florida.

In January 2007 he learned that our government does a complete rehab for young veterans returning, but if they are blinded during combat or have other major injuries, they must rely on private donations to help them in their next phase of returning to a life of independence with a specially trained dog.

Irwin became affiliated with America’s Vet Dog Program in Smithtown, N.Y. and founded the group Vets Helping Heroes.

He began to raise funds — it cost $30,000 to train a dog for 2 years to help the blind or injured soldiers, airmen and Marines have a chance to live independently with dignity. Since inception he has raised $1,600,000 and 28 dogs were placed last year.

Irwin now has over 120 applicants and the list is growing.

This gift of life is at NO COST to the vet and if in 9 years his dog is retired, he will immediately have a replacement, which continues for the rest of his life. All professional training and learning with the dog is a part of the program.

Check out Phil Keating’s report and more importantly,  go to vetshelpingheroes.org to help Irwin repay these heroes who have sacrificed to much for our country.

Source: Fox News Hannity