John Barnett, a U.S. Navy veteran and retired New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) police officer, has embarked on a mission to run a marathon in all 50 U.S. states to raise awareness for the local nonprofit Paws of War. After serving in the Navy and then the MTA police department, Barnett’s career came to an end in 2012 when he was attacked and stabbed in the eye by a criminal while on patrol at Long Island Railroad’s Jamaica Station.
Following the incident, Barnett was left blind in his left eye and has since been receiving treatment for his eye injury and therapy for PTSD. He discovered Paws of War located near his house and sought help from them. The organization provides various services, including veteran training for his two dogs, counseling, and a supportive community of other veterans and first responders. Inspired by the assistance he received, Barnett decided to run marathons to raise awareness for Paws of War and help others in similar situations.
Barnett’s goal is to support veterans and first responders who may be going through struggles by advocating for the services provided by Paws of War. He believes that the assistance he received from the organization has greatly benefited him, and he wants to ensure that others receive similar help. By running marathons for the organization, Barnett hopes to make a positive impact and give back to his fellow first responders and veterans.
His first marathon for Paws of War took place in Montana, and he plans to continue running in various states to spread awareness and raise funds for the nonprofit. In addition to running for Paws of War, Barnett encourages other veterans and first responders to reach out to their local VA hospitals for immediate assistance. The co-founder of Paws of War, Robert Misseri, commended Barnett for his resilience and dedication to giving back to the organization, emphasizing the importance of supporting veterans and first responders in need.
Paws of War’s mission is to honor and support veterans, active military members, and first responders through services that enrich their lives. This includes rescuing and training service dogs for independence, adopting companion animals, rescuing animals in war zones, and providing essential services to assist those who have served their country. Barnett’s efforts in running marathons to raise awareness for the organization have the potential to positively impact the lives of veterans, military members, and first responders in need of support.
