Every year, Sheep Dog Impact Assistance recognizes individuals who embody the spirit of service, resilience, and leadership that defines the Sheep Dog community.
We are proud to announce the 2025 Sheep Dog of the Year honorees, who will be formally recognized at the 2026 Heroes Gala. These individuals represent the very best of our military, veteran, and first responder communities, people who continue serving others long after the uniform comes off.
impact
Since 2010, Sheep Dog Impact Assistance has helped 23,724 Sheep Dogs Get Off The Couch® and reconnect with purpose through programs including:
• Outdoor Adventures
• Warrior PATHH
• Disaster Response Missions
• Continued Service opportunities
The Sheep Dog of the Year awards highlight individuals who exemplify that mission through leadership, service, and dedication to others.
honorees
Military Sheep Dog of the Year- Ron Redding, CMSgt (Ret.)
Ron Redding is a lifelong public servant with more than four decades of leadership experience spanning military service, emergency management, and fire service leadership.
After a distinguished 33-year career in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Chief Master Sergeant, Ron continued serving in emergency management roles supporting national preparedness and disaster response.
Ron is also deeply involved with Sheep Dog Impact Assistance, participating in Warrior PATHH, Sheep Dog University, Disaster Response Missions, and Outdoor Adventures, continuing his mission of service alongside fellow Sheep Dogs.
Law Enforcement Sheep Dog of the Year- James Hurn
James Hurn has devoted his career to protecting and serving his community with the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office.
During his service he has worked as a Patrol Deputy, Drug Task Force Detective, ATF Task Force Officer, SWAT Team Operator, Violent Crimes Detective, and Sergeant assigned to the Special Investigations Unit.
James is also a graduate of Warrior PATHH, and he actively supports fellow first responders by encouraging wellness, faith, and resilience within the first responder community.
Outside of work, James and his wife Jane enjoy raising their four daughters and spending time on their family farm.
Fire Sheep Dog of the Year- Captain Jerry Puga
Captain Jerry Puga has served with the Los Angeles Fire Department for more than 22 years, working some of the department’s busiest assignments before being promoted to Captain.
In 2025, Jerry faced a deeply personal challenge when the Altadena wildfire destroyed his own neighborhood. In the midst of that devastation, Jerry and his family leaned on the strength of the fire service community and the resilience that defines the Sheep Dog spirit.
Jerry continues to lead from the front, demonstrating the courage, commitment, and compassion that defines a Sheep Dog.
EMS Sheep Dog of the Year- Melissa White
Melissa White has dedicated more than two decades to volunteer service and community leadership. Beginning as a volunteer firefighter in 2004 and becoming an EMT with Metropolitan Emergency Medical Services in 2019, Melissa has consistently demonstrated a commitment to helping others.
In 2025 she was honored with the Star of Life Award, recognizing leadership and professionalism in emergency medical services.
Beyond EMS, Melissa has invested years mentoring youth through Scouting America, Camp Sunshine, Civil Air Patrol, and JROTC programs, helping young people build resilience and leadership skills.
Melissa and her husband Steve are proud parents of two sons and continue to dedicate their lives to service and mentorship.
Honoring Them at the 2026 Heroes Gala
The 2026 Sheep Dog Impact Assistance Heroes Gala will bring together supporters from across the country to celebrate these remarkable individuals.
The evening will feature:
• Recognition of the 2025 Sheep Dog of the Year honorees
• Keynote speaker Rob O’Neill, Navy SEAL (ret.)
• Mission impact stories
• Fundraising to support SDIA programs nationwide
The Heroes Gala Auction Is Now Live
The Heroes Gala Silent Auction is officially open, and supporters across the country can participate.
Every bid helps fund life-changing programs that help veterans and first responders reconnect with purpose and community.