TOKA'S FRIENDS
Service dogs for military veterans
Memorial Day 2026
Today we remember and honor all of the heroes who gave up their lives to protect our freedoms. We are thinking of all the families who have lost loved ones in service to their country, and we are thinking of all of the veterans who have lost partners and friends on the battlefield. Also, we remember veterans who could no longer bear the invisible wounds of war.
Our Service Dogs Named for Fallen Heroes
Ensign Jesse Leroy Brown
Jesse Brown was the first African-American aviator to complete the U.S. Navy's basic flight training program. The first naval officer to die in the Korean War, Ensign Brown was posthumously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and a Purple Heart.
Service Dog - Jesse. To learn more about Jesse Brown and service dog Jesse, click here.
Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna
Andrew McKenna died while defending his base camp in Afghanistan. As First Sergeant for the Special Operations Joint Task Forces - Afghanistan, Sgt. McKenna's heroic actions ensured the safety of over 300 people, for which he was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and the Silver Star.
Service Dog - Drew. To learn more about Andrew McKenna and service dog Drew, click here.
Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy
As a member of Navy Seal Vehicle Delivery Team One, Lt. Murphy lost his life during a reconnaissance mission in Afghanistan. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during a battle in which he and his other 3 team members were outnumbered by more than 50 enemy fighters.
Service Dog - Murphy. To learn more about Michael P. Murphy, click here.
Captain Jennifer Moreno
As part of the Army Special Operations Command in Afghanistan during the Gulf War, Capt. Moreno lost her life trying to save a fellow soldier in the midst of an ambush of the Army compound. Moreno was posthumously promoted to captain and awarded the Combat Action Badge, Bronze Star Medal, and the Purple Heart.
Service Dog In Training - Jenny.
Army Master Sgt. Shawn E. Simmons
Team Sergeant in 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, Sgt. Simmons lost his life during a training operation in Afghanistan. Sgt. Simmons was a highly decorated soldier whose awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (second award), two Army Commendation Medals and numerous other recognitions.
Service Dog In Training - ShawnE.
Congratulations to our newest Veteran-Dog Teams
In September of 2025, Drew began his service with Jeremiah, a 20+ year Army veteran.
In December of 2025, after many months of team training, Chester and Shauna passed all of the service dog certification tests. An army veteran, Shauna is thrilled to have Chester by her side.
Save the Date!
Toka's Friends 5th Annual Golf Tournament
Monday, June 8, 2026
Allendale Country Club
11 am Shotgun Start
Sponsorship Opportunities
As our primary fundraising event, we rely on the generosity of companies, organizations or individuals who sponsor our golf tournament to help make the event a big success. Please consider being a sponsor. Click on the link to review our sponsorship options.
2026 Toka's Friends Golf Tournament Sponsorship Opportunities