BVA National Headquarters has provided me with a report of the Memorial Day reception held yesterday on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. This successful reception was well attended and offered a unique experience to all who were present.

In addition to remembering those who offered the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation’s freedoms, the reception was an opportunity for Waymo to emphasize the technological advances that have become part of autonomous vehicles—how autonomous vehicles allow people with disabilities to move more freely, to ride without discrimination against their guide dogs, and to ride to a destination knowing they will have a consistent and predictable experience.

A Waymo vehicle was even there to see and explore. Several people from congressional offices stopped by, including a number of congressional staffers and Representative Bob Latte (R-OH-5) himself. Other organizations were represented also, including BVA’s sister Veterans Service Organizations and organizations of and for the blind. 

Also at the reception, Don Overton made a few remarks about the transportation challenges faced by veterans and how innovative technology, like that found in fully autonomous vehicles, can expand mobility and independence for blind and low vision veterans especially, even those who have a guide dog.

I’m looking forward to a trip to Phoenix with my dad and two other Ambassadog friends during the first week of June. We will be participating in a video shoot, courtesy of our friends at Waymo. I can’t wait to get that tail of mine into an autonomous vehicle for the first time and go for a spin.