Save The Date for “Salute Independence” 2026!

Elderly man in formal black suit with medals speaks at a wooden podium, flanked by military flags (including Navy and Air Force), while two men stand to his left and a seated veteran watches on the right.

Save-the-date and join Canine Companions for our 15th annual Salute Independence Veteran’s Day awards ceremony presenting The Colonel E. David Woycik Jr., Esq., USA (Ret.) Outstanding Service Awards to deserving veterans who continue to serve their local community.

Salute Independence 2026

Wednesday, November 4, 2026

Capt. Bill’s Seafood Restaurant

122 Ocean Ave., Bay Shore, New York 11706

You can learn more about last year’s inspiring veterans and all our 2025 Award Recipients here!

Thanks to your generosity, we’re able to further our mission of providing expertly trained service dogs to veterans with disabilities at no charge.  Stay tuned for more information on registering/sponsoring/donating to Salute Independence 2026!

Each year, Canine Companions Colonel E. David Woycik, Jr., Esq., USA (Ret.) Outstanding Service Awards are presented to well-deserving veterans and other community members who’ve gone above and beyond to help our heroes – those who’ve sacrificed so much in order for us to continue to enjoy our rights and freedoms.  

Group of men, some in military uniform or veterans’ caps, standing in a banquet room holding small eagle trophies with an American flag backdrop and a black service dog at their feet.

Overhead view of a large formal banquet in a ballroom with guests seated at round tables adorned with centerpieces, gold chairs, a crystal chandelier overhead and people mingling around the room.All proceeds support Canine Companions, serving veterans, children and adults with disabilities since 1975.

 If you’re a veteran, we thank you for your service!  

Questions? Contact Canine Companions Philanthropy Event Manager Alexis Gregos at 631-561-0207 for assistance.