Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski II Memorial Fund Provides Service Dog "Corey" to Wounded Warrior Lawanna

Holmdel, NJ, September 8, 2015 (Newswire.com) - Thanks to the generous support of Patricia Elsas of Rumson, the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, II Memorial Fund was instrumental in sponsoring a specially trained service dog named Corey, who will help wounded warrior Lawanna move forward with her life after suffering from post traumatic stress.  Mrs. Elsas is a longtime supporter of the Memorial Fund, which has enabled the organization to pair 3 of 17 dogs sponsored.

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

"We wish Corey and Lawanna success, health and much happiness together!"

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

“Our ability to sponsor this wonderful organization 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. 

According to a K9’s for Warriors spokesperson, “There is no better way to help our warriors move forward with their lives, than pairing them with a service dog that is specifically trained to assist them.  These dogs are amazing and will bring our warriors hope for their future.  God bless you Corey as you help Lawanna move forward in her life.”

“We wish Corey and Lawanna success, health and much happiness together,” said Marion.  “The continued support of our supporters is critical. Our next big fundraising event is our Gala: A Toast to Dennis – A Night of Remembrance, which will be held Friday, September 11 where we will celebrate the life and memory of Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, as well as honoring those from Monmouth County who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks.”

The Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski Memorial Fund provides care and support for those serving our country and their families. The SGT. DENNY PROJECT has sponsored the training and placement of 17 service dogs.

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 supporting K9s for Warriors.  All of their service dogs are ADA approved and certified.

For more information please visit: www.runwithdennis.org or email [email protected].

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 Fund sponsors programs for injured soldiers and 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.

                                                        ###

Photo Caption: Lawanna & Corey