Kirk Herbstreit said Saturday he was honored to receive a letter from President of the United States Joe Biden about the passing of beloved dog Ben.

“I got a letter from the President of the United States yesterday, which really blew me away,” Herbstreit said during ESPN’s “College GameDay” broadcast. “When I saw the White House, and I read a very personal note from Joe Biden. I really appreciated it. Ben really impacted a lot of people.”

Ben, a golden retriever, died last month after a battle with cancer. On Saturday, it was announced the American Kennel Club was a donation to the V Foundation in memory of Ben.

On Wednesday, Herbstreit posted the heartfelt letter he received from Biden.

“Dear Kirk, I was so sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved Ben. Ben brought so much comfort and unconditional love to millions of Americans across our Nation. In your most joyful moments and grief-stricken days, he was there, sensitive to every unspoken feeling and emotion.

“I know what it’s like to lose a beloved pet, and I hope you can find some comfort in cherishing the beautiful memories you shared with Ben. He was a good boy,” wrote Biden in the letter, dated Nov. 22, 2024.”

“It was great honor, and I really appreciate it,” Herbstreit said.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.