Jason Haag: A Life of Service, Family, and Resilience

Photo Credit: Karen Presecan Photography

Jason Haag's life is a testament to unwavering resilience, a solid commitment to his country and family, and a deep sense of service. As a Marine Corps veteran and founder of Leashes of Valor (LOV), a nonprofit organization that provides service dogs to wounded and disabled veterans, Jason's journey is one of unyielding strength and dedication. But behind his professional accomplishments is a man deeply connected to his family— with members including both humans and canines.

Jason is the father of three children: Tristan, who recently graduated from VCU; Colby, a student-athlete at the University of Mary Washington; and Peyton, a rising high school sophomore in Spotsylvania County. While his children don't live with him, they are central to his life. 

"My kids mean the world to me," Jason said. "Watching them grow and succeed is one of my greatest joys."

Jason's service dog, Maverick, is not just a companion but a vital part of his daily life. The almost two-year-old Maverick was one of six puppies rescued shortly after LOV moved to Fredericksburg. 

"Maverick is more than just a service dog; he's my companion and support," Jason explained. His bond with Maverick exemplifies the impact of companionship and support in overcoming life's challenges.

Jason also acknowledges the importance of Elizabeth Haag, his children's mother. 

"We met as teenagers, and I wouldn't be here today without her," he said. Their shared history and commitment to their children remain essential to him.

Jason's Marine Corps career spanned 13 years, including three deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. The physical and emotional toll left him with both visible and invisible wounds. 

"I sustained several injuries from machine gun fire and bomb blasts," he recalled. "But it was the injuries no one could see -- traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder -- that were, in many ways, far worse." These experiences have undoubtedly shaped his family life and the challenges they have faced together.

After his medical retirement from the Marines in 2013, Jason tried many things to ease his PTSD symptoms. 

“But it wasn’t until I received my service dog, Axel, that I finally found healing.”

“Axel and I spent many years traveling the country to share our story and how service dogs can prove life-changing to veterans like me,” Jason continued. 

This experience led him to establish Leashes of Valor in 2017, a project that has since become his life's work, “so we could get more highly-trained service dogs into the hands of veterans.”

Beloved Axel passed away in January 2023, but his legacy lives on through Leashes of Valor and Axel’s Place, the organization’s canine and warrior training facility, and within the Haag family’s memories.

"Leashes of Valor is quite literally my life," Jason said. "I live here on the property on Old Plank Road, which also serves as our office space and hosts veterans from around the country."

Leashes of Valor is a deeply personal project for Jason, reflecting his desire to help other veterans find the support and healing he experienced. Since 2017, the national nonprofit has helped raise, train, and provide service dogs– at absolutely no cost– to over 32 wounded and disabled veterans.

Jason’s role at Leashes of Valor is not just a volunteer role but a crucial one. He leads by example as the founder, showing that healing and service are intertwined. 

"Neither my director of programs, a fellow wounded combat veteran, nor I take a paycheck," he noted, highlighting the selfless nature of their work and the depth of our commitment to their cause.

Despite the demands of his work, Jason makes time for his children and values the moments they share. Whether attending Colby's sports events, celebrating Tristan's graduation, or supporting Peyton through high school, Jason is a devoted father who strives to be present in their lives.

In addition to his work and family life, Jason has taken up competitive golfing. 

"I've been golfing competitively for about three years," he said. "But Leashes of Valor is also at the heart of this. We organize multiple golf tournaments throughout the year to raise funds."

Jason's life in Fredericksburg is also marked by his connection to the local community. He truly appreciates the support LOV has received from local businesses. 

“I love Battlefield Country Store,” Jason said. “Not only do they have delicious food and ice cream, they have also been amazing supporters of LOV and they’re a family favorite.” This past November, the local business even created four specialty milkshakes featuring LOV’s service dogs and donated $2 for every shake they sold. “They also helped us get the word out about our organization in a way we never could have done on our own.”

“Mr. Powell at Powell’s Furniture has also been amazing,” Jason said. “He donated furniture to us and has supported us in many other ways. We love going by the store to train with our dogs.”

 "The generosity of this community has been overwhelming," Jason said. "We knew then that moving here was the best thing that ever happened to this organization and to my family." Jason and his family try to showcase their gratitude for the community through appreciation events put on by LOV.

While running a nonprofit organization doesn’t leave Jason with a ton of free time, when he can take a few days off, he and the family love spending time at nearby Lake Anna. 

Jason Haag's story is one of courage, dedication, and an enduring commitment to his family and his fellow veterans. Through dedication, compassion, and community support, Jason continues to make a profound difference in the lives of veterans and service dogs alike, all while being the best father he can be.

——

For those interested in supporting or learning more about Leashes of Valor, visit their website, www.leashesofvalor.org, and connect with them on social media at www.facebook.com/LeashesofValor to explore volunteer and donation opportunities.