On July 4 at 10 a.m., the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System held its Independence Day Salute to the Flag at the New Orleans Veterans Medical Center at 2400 Canal Street.
The ceremony included a flag raising by U.S. Army Veteran Andy Anderson.
Anderson walked to the flag with assistance from Dante, the physical therapy dog at the New Orleans VA.
Veterans led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance and national anthem with the American Legion Post 377 band providing music.
After leaving the Army, Anderson suffered a traumatic brain injury last year when a car hit him when he was walking from a store. While receiving therapy at the New Orleans Veterans Medical Center, Anderson was referred to the polytrauma program where he met Dante and formed a bond that has been instrumental in his recovery.
Dante has been fully trained by United States Veterans Service Dogs in Covington. Natalie Pilie, physical therapist and neurologic clinical specialist is his primary handler. Dante is used in therapy to improve patients’ gait, balance, range of motion, strength, coordination, cognition and participation.
