Behind The Shield Anthony Longo (Combat Medicine, Working Dogs and Canine Therapy) - Episiode 1082
Anthony Longo is a U.S. Marine Corps Combat Veteran who served multiple deployments in Fallujah, Iraq, as an Infantry Communication Specialist. After his military service, he pursued a career in Fire Rescue, earning a degree in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and certification as a Nationally Registered Paramedic (NRP). His dedication to protecting others led him to serve as a Tactical Medic for the U.S. Department of State, conducting diplomatic security operations in Kabul, Afghanistan. During his service, he was awarded the Department of State’s Medal of Heroism for his actions during an insurgent attack on a U.S. compound that resulted in a mass-casualty incident.
During his time overseas, Anthony developed a passion for canine training and rehabilitation, working alongside world-renowned trainers. He immersed himself in the field, traveling across the country and internationally to refine his expertise. After completing his contracting career in 2017, he fully committed to working with and breeding service dogs.
In 2016, Anthony founded Warriors Choice Foundation (WCF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to assisting transitioning military combat veterans and first responders through holistic wellness programs. With a deep understanding of the challenges combat veterans face—including PTSD, mental health struggles, and reintegration difficulties—he built WCF to offer personalized care and alternative treatments in a retreat-like healing environment.
Under Anthony’s leadership, WCF has:
- Provided over 46 fully trained service dogs to combat veterans.
- Organized 32 wellness retreats for veterans in need of mental and emotional recovery.
- Raised 100% of program funding through charitable donations, ensuring accessibility for those in need.
- Developed the Focused Cognitive K9 Rehabilitation (FCKR) Program, setting a new standard for service dog training and expediting access for veterans requiring service animals.
- Plans to build a national-scale flagship wellness center in South Florida, to serve veterans and first responders with innovative healthcare solutions.
- Honoree for the 2024 Powerlist of Palm Beach Award
- Honoree for the 2023 Operation Warrior Shield Leadership Award.
Anthony’s hands-on experience in civilian and military healthcare, leadership, and personnel management has made him a driving force behind WCF’s success. He is committed to empowering combat veterans and first responders through comprehensive wellness programs and ensuring they receive the support, resources, and rehabilitation they deserve.
Through Warriors Choice Foundation, Anthony continues to make a life-changing impact on veterans and first responders in Jupiter, Florida, and nationwide, offering a pathway to healing, recovery, and renewed purpose.