Total blocked shots
0
Raised so far
$0
Home / Capitals fans cheer for ‘Good Dog of the Game’
The Washington Capitals’ October 7 home opener against franchise rivals the Pittsburgh Penguins featured two guest stars. And no, we aren’t talking about Crosby and Ovechkin, but CACI’s own Harley Brown and his trusted service dog, Claire.
The pair were introduced to the thousands of cheering fans packed into Capital One Arena for the showdown during the first ever ‘Good Dog of the Game’ spotlight, honoring service dogs and the veterans they support.
Harley and Claire pose as they are introduced to the crowd.
As part of CACI’s signature philanthropy program, Good Dogs for Great Americans, veteran and service dog pairs will be similarly spotlighted throughout the season, bringing greater awareness to not only the valiant service of veterans but the hurdles that many face after leaving the military.
In partnership with the Washington Capitals and America's VetDogs, Good Dogs for Great Americans turns defense on the ice into life-changing support for those who defended our nation. Throughout the NHL season, CACI is donating $250 to America's VetDogs for every Capitals blocked shot. Those donations will help train and place service dogs with veterans who need them.
Scott Abraham with Harley and Claire.
Brown joined CACI after a 20-year career in the Army. In 2023, America's VetDogs paired him with Claire, whom he affectionately calls ‘Claire Bear.’ She provides mobility assistance for Brown and also helps him manage PTSD symptoms. During an interview with ABC 7 News Sports Director Scott Abraham, Brown said Claire is a trusted companion and much more.
“When I got Claire … (she) helped free up everything in my life where I felt able to go out and enjoy my kids and enjoy what I was doing,” Brown explained. “Because I know she’s there, I’m not so worried.”
Fans were on their feet often as the Caps routed the Pens 5-3, with the Caps adding another 15 blocked shots to the season’s total. As of this posting, the Capitals have blocked 120 shots, meaning CACI has already committed to donating $30,000, and the season is just getting underway.
“It’s going to put more dogs with more veterans, and that’s just going to be a great thing,” said Brown.
Harley with his wife, Jennifer, and Claire.
Follow the Caps all season, track their blocked shots and the money raised for service dogs, and check in on Bravo, CACI’s first sponsored puppy, as he begins his journey to become a service dog here.
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