Anthony has always lived a life of service. So it was fitting that compassion inspired the Navy veteran to adopt an overlooked shelter dog.
On land and sea
In 1985 Anthony enlisted in the Navy. He served for a decade as a computer systems specialist and data systems technician. These highly skilled professionals are responsible to ensure a range of secure communications aboard ships, submarines, and onshore facilities.
During his military career Anthony served both on land and sea.
“I served aboard USS Independence (CV-62) and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), where I was responsible for maintaining shipboard computer systems, local area networks, and Honeywell DPS/6 mainframe systems supporting mission-critical operations,” he shares. “This work required precision, reliability, and calm under pressure in demanding operational environments.”
When not at sea, the Navy veteran devoted his energies to encouraging others to serve. He is proud of the many commendations he received for this work, all of which led to being awarded the Navy Achievement Medal.
Multiple deployments to the Gulf region led to other medals, including the Southwest Asia Service Medal with Bronze Star, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.
But while medals punctuate jobs well done, they represent mission-critical responsibilities that can shape a person for a lifetime.
“Some of my most formative experiences came from shipboard life aboard aircraft carriers, where thousands of people must operate as a single, coordinated team,” Anthony says. “In those environments, accountability is immediate and real. When systems fail, people are counting on you to restore them quickly and correctly.”
The Navy veteran reflects on how his military career continues to influence his daily actions.
“That experience taught me responsibility, patience, and trust in others,” he says. “The lessons I learned at sea—staying steady under pressure and taking care of what’s entrusted to you—have stayed with me throughout my life.”
In time that focus would lead Anthony to throw a lifeline to a dog in need.
A life of service
In 1995 Anthony separated from the Navy to begin his life anew. Military service gave way to serving the public good.
“I spent many years in higher education and academic libraries, where I supported teaching, research, and community access to knowledge,” he says. “That work eventually led me to federal service, where I helped oversee national programs and funding that strengthen libraries, archives, and cultural institutions across the country.”
Compassion remains the common denominator in all of Anthony’s professional and personal pursuits.
“Throughout each phase of my life—military, academic, and federal—my focus has remained the same: stewardship, access, and service to others. In this current chapter, I’m continuing that commitment in quieter, but no less meaningful ways, emphasizing well-being, connection, and care within my home and community.”
Need not breed
In the fall of 2025 Anthony felt a familiar tug to his heart. Three years earlier his family dog passed away. The Navy veteran and his 14 year-old daughter decided it was time to welcome another four-legged soul into their family.
“My home has been pet-friendly for over 25 years, and animals have always been part of my sense of home and routine,” Anthony says.
But this time things were different. Whereas in the past the Navy veteran was drawn to specific dog breeds, this time he felt drawn to adopt a dog who—regardless of pedigree—was most in need of a loving home.
“Rather than focusing on breed, I chose to focus on need. I wanted to provide stability and care to a pet who might otherwise be overlooked,” he explains.
“That decision led me to the Prince George’s County Animal Shelter, where I intentionally sought out a pet with higher needs.”
Many prospective adopters shy away from pets who are no less deserving of their compassion and rescue. They overlook animals who are older, have special needs, or are long-term homeless. Not Anthony.
“Providing patience, structure, and a safe environment felt like a natural extension of my values and life experience.”
The dignity of adoption
At the time Kingsley was a six year-old mixed-breed dog in the care of Prince George’s County Animal Services. Since 2013 the municipal shelter has made more than 230 adoptions through our partnership and waives adoption fees for our members.
Little was known about Kingsley’s prior life, but that mattered little to Anthony.
The Navy veteran learned about our program from shelter staff and adopted Kingsley on the very same day we approved his application. He chose to adopt through our nationwide nonprofit because our values align with his compassionate vision on life.
“Pets for Patriots stood out to me because of its thoughtful, respectful approach to both veterans and animals. The organization understands that service doesn’t end when military service does, and that companionship can play an important role in long-term well-being,” he says.
“Their mission aligned closely with my own values—dignity, mutual benefit, and intentional care.”
Mellow fellow
While Kingsley is not yet a senior, he is a mature adult dog who brings a soft, quiet presence to Anthony’s home. Having a pet after a three-year hiatus brought back familiar, comforting routines.
The Navy veteran did not realize how much he missed having a dog in his family—and marvels at how saving Kingsley has enhanced his life in unexpected ways.
“My pet has brought steadiness, structure, and warmth into my daily life,” he says. “The companionship has been grounding in ways I didn’t fully anticipate. Daily routines, quiet moments, and shared progress have added purpose and connection to my days.”
Anthony describes Kingsley as a gentle friend, quietly attentive of his surroundings, offering his companionship and asking nothing in return.
“His calm presence brings steadiness and comfort to everyday moments,” he says.
And it is this zen-like disposition that Anthony loves most about his new charge. Kingsley has an outsized presence for his mere 27 pounds. He seeks affection, but does not demand it.
“What has made Kingsley especially beloved is his deep affection for quiet companionship,” Anthony says.
“His presence has brought a soothing rhythm to the household.”
“…he is home”
Anthony appreciates our mission’s dual focus helping people save pets and pets save people. He encourages other veterans considering adoption to follow in his wake and apply to our companion pet adoption program.
Since 2025 all of our programs are open to spouses of the fallen as well.
“I would tell other veterans that Pets for Patriots truly understands both service and transition. This program isn’t just about adoption. It’s about connection, dignity, and creating stability for both veterans and animals.”
Anthony put his trademark compassion first and foremost in his adoption decision. He made a conscious choice to seek out and save a dog who most would-be adopters would simply pass by, solely due to his age.
Prioritizing need, not breed, led the Navy veteran to a dog who has blended into his home as if he had been there his entire life.
“Kingsley’s adoption is a powerful example of how programs like Pets for Patriots make it possible for older animals to find loving, permanent homes. His transition from shelter life to family life highlights what’s possible when community organizations, shelters, and adopters come together around compassion,” he says. “Kingsley is not just settling in—he is home.”
He’s the sweetest dog you’ll ever meet and they have tons more at the shelter that are also just as compassionate. We would’ve adopted them all if we could.