Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund Provides Service Dog "JJ" to Wounded Warrior Linda

The Zilinski Memorial Fund made another service dog donation possible to a wounded warrior.

Thanks to the generous support of Patricia Elsas of Rumson and their network of supporters, the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, II Memorial Fund was instrumental in providing a specially trained rescue dog named JJ to wounded warrior Linda to help her move forward with her life after suffering from post traumatic stress. 

JJ was trained at K9s for Warriors for 6 months and spent 3 weeks at the school living with his new partner Linda.  They took their last test prior to graduation, and JJ was officially certified under the American Disabilities Act.

"We wish them both success, health and much happiness together. The continued support of our supporters at our K9 Sgt. Denny Dog Walk is critical. This year's event takes place on Saturday, June 13 at the NJ army National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt. To join us, visit www.runwithdennis.org."

Marion Zilinski, Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund

“This donation is possible thanks to the generous support we received from Patricia,” said Marion Zilinski, co-founder of the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, II Memorial Fund. 

“We wish them both success, health and much happiness together,” said Marion.  “The continued support of our supporters at our K9 Sgt. Denny Dog Walk is critical.  This year’s event takes place on Saturday, June 13 at the NJ army National Guard Training Center in Sea Girt.  To join us, visit www.runwithdennis.org.”

The Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund provides care and support for those serving our country and their families. The SGT. DENNY PROJECT has donated 17 service dogs to date, costing approximately $15,000 per dog.

The program is named for SGT. Denny, a two year old German shepherd who was stationed in Afghanistan with his handler.

For those returning home from combat, the transition back into society can be overwhelming. The hyper-vigilance and hyper-reactivity to situations, sensations, sounds and smells that kept them alive in the war zone often continues despite the peace of civilian life.  Service dogs are trained to help wounded warriors with many of the fight or flight reactions and health issues they face upon returning home from combat. Funds raised from this event will go toward purchasing dogs from K9s for Warriors and Canine Companions for Independence.  All of these service dogs are ADA approved and certified.

For more information please visit: www.runwithdennis.org or email RunwithDennis@yahoo.com.

About the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund:

The Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, II Memorial was created and founded in 2006 in order to honor Lt. Zilinski’s memory and spirit for life.  The first Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Run/Walk was held in November of 2006.  All proceeds of the run/walk sponsor programs for injured soldiers and to fund scholarships to Lt. Zilinski’s alma mater, Christian Brothers Academy.  The Fund provides support to improve the morale and welfare of members of the United States Armed Forces and their families.  Additionally, by providing scholarships, the Fund invests in the future of high school students who embody the leadership qualities and community spirit of Lt. Zilinski.

Additional donations may be sent to: Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund, PO Box 35,  Holmdel, NJ 07733.

                                                        ###

Related Media