1. Captain James Van Thach, USA (Ret.)
Captain James Van Thach, USA (Ret.)
is a highly decorated United States
Army veteran who was wounded twice
in the line of duty in Iraq. He is a
Bronze Star and Purple Heart
recipient, and is the first Vietnamese-
American to become an advisor to the
New Iraqi Army. In recognition of his
service, Captain James Van Thach was
given the honorary title of Brigadier
General by the Iraqi government. He
is a native of Bellerose, Queens where
he resides today. After graduating
from Touro Law School, Captain
James Van Thach volunteered for a
two year tour of duty in Iraq where he
was first injured in an IED explosion. After recovering from those injuries,
he was injured again during a rocket attack, which exploded less than 20
meters from where he was standing. As a result of those injuries, James
retired from the Army in 2009, and in May of 2012 was invited to
participate in Team Training at Canine Companions for Independence in
Medford, NY. James was matched with his service dog and now constant
companion, Liz. Since receiving Liz, James has gained more self-
confidence and persevered through his injuries and was strong enough in
2013 to take a tour to Afghanistan on Operation Proper Exit to speak to over
1,500 troops about his wounds and how having his service dog has changed
his life. He has been a tireless supporter and spokesperson for Canine
Companions Wounded Veterans Initiative speaking to other wounded
veterans about the difference an assistance dog can make in their lives.