Broadband Communications Association of Pennsylvania president Todd Eachus presents the BCAP President’s Community Service Award to Armstrong president Jeff Ross for his company’s partnership with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, an organization that trains medical service dogs for veterans. Pictured with them is Gary Falconer of Butler with his service dog, Russell. Submitted Photo

Butler resident Gary Falconer was recognized during the Pennsylvania Broadband Summit on April 11, along with Armstrong Utilities, for their partnership with the Healing Heroes program.

Falconer is the recipient of a medical service dog, named Russell, which was trained by Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs.

Armstrong entered a partnership with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs on Veterans Day in 2016 and raised more than $350,000 to help train medical service dogs to aid veterans with special needs.

During the summit Falconer, a U.S. Air Force veteran, told the crowd he had been captured overseas and struggled with depression after returning home.

When Falconer learned about the Healing Heroes program, he hoped that a four-legged friend would help him get through his days.

“Armstrong saved my life,” Falconer said, “because Armstrong gave me Russell.”