Community Corner
Gary Sinise Surprises Local Gold Star Mom
Marion Zilinski, co-Founder of the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund of Holmdel, had a lovely surprise during a Super Bowl party for wounded warriors and their families at Walter Reed Bethesda Army Hospital. Marion and her team helped out at the party with the NYFD and Adopt-a-Soldier Platoon.
While there, she had the pleasure of meeting Actor Gary Sinise, who took a few minutes to talk with her about the loss of her son Lt. Dennis Zilinski II, and her family’s sacrifice. Marion had the opportunity to tell him about the wonderful Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund and they thanked each other for the work each is doing on behalf of wounded warriors. Said Marion, “It was so memorable and my dream to meet him, I love him as Mack Taylor!”
“Gary lends his professional voice and through his foundation helps so many of our wounded warriors. God bless you always Gary and thank you for being their voice!” she said.
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About the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund:
Lt. Dennis Zilinski II grew up in Middletown, NJ and graduated from Christian Brothers Academy, where he was a member of the swim team. He received his nomination to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point and graduated in 2004. He also completed Airborne School while a student at West Point.
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After graduation from Ranger School, he was assigned to the 1/187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) “Rakkasan”. He deployed with the 101st Airborne Division on September 17, 2005. Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, II died in Iraq on November 19, 2005 as a result of a roadside bombing near Bayji, 155 miles north of Baghdad. Lt. Zilinski’s medals include: Combat Infantry Badge, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Global War on Terror, Iraq Campaign Service Medal and the New Jersey Distinguished Service Medal.
As an act of that love, Dennis’ family and friends founded The Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, II Memorial Fund, whose mission is to continue to serve and assist returning men and women who were wounded in service to our nation. The fund also supports scholarships at CBA.
For more information please visit: www.runwithdennis.org or email RunwithDennis@yahoo.com.
