U.S. War Dogs Association

Bonds of Service
Wreath Laying & Reception
Military Women’s Memorial, Arlington VA
Erik Larson Photography

Bonds of Service
Wreath Laying & Reception
Military Women’s Memorial, Arlington VA
Sara Ann Imagery

About the National Service Animals Monument (NSAM)

The National Service Animals Monument (NSAM) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization leading the effort to build the first federally authorized national monument honoring service animals and their handlers.

• Congressional Authorization: In 2023, President Biden signed bipartisan legislation authorizing NSAM to construct this monument on federal land in Washington, DC.
• Vision: To honor the life-saving, life-changing work of service animals across history—military, law enforcement, search & rescue, guide, therapy, assistance, and beyond.
• Scope: Recognizing dogs, horses, mules, donkeys, pigeons, dolphins, sea lions, cats, and more who have stood by human partners in service, protection, and healing.
• Leadership: Founded and chaired by Susan Bahary, renowned sculptor of national monuments honoring military and service animals.

This monument will become a lasting national treasure, inspiring generations to recognize the enduring human-animal bond.

Event Overview

The Committee hosted the Inaugural Bonds of Service: A National Tribute is a cocktail reception and wreath-laying ceremony honoring the role of service animals throughout U.S. history.

• Date: March 10, 2026
• Venue: Military Women’s Memorial, Arlington, VA
• Masters of Ceremonies: John O’Hurley + David Frei,
  TV Co-hosts of NBC’s National Dog Show Presented by Purina
• Audience: 200+ distinguished guests, including government officials, military and law enforcement leaders, service dog organizations, corporate partners, philanthropists, and the broader community.
• Program Highlights:
  • Wreath-laying ceremony honoring fallen service animals and handlers
  • Cocktail reception with keynote remarks and special tributes
  • Recognition of our sponsors and partners in this historic effort
  • Art and historical displays about service animals in war, service, and healing
  • Featuring: Quantico Marine Corps Band

This event set the stage for the Monument’s capital campaign and raised national awareness for its mission.

Call to Action

Your donation will directly support Bonds of Service: A National Tribute and help advance the creation of the National Service Animals Monument in Washington, DC.

By joining us, you will:

• Honor the legacy of service animals and their handlers
• Support a Congressional-authorized national project
• Demonstrate your organization’s leadership in service, healing, and remembrance

Together, we will build a national treasure.