About 300 people gathered at the Westlake Golf and Country Club in Jackson last week to support the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, II Memorial Fund, aiming to raise funds for sponsoring service dogs for two disabled veterans.
The event featured a dinner and auction following the Third Annual Westlake "Golf with Dennis" during the day. It was organized by Joe Panico and his family, with support from committee members, many of whom are club members who volunteered their time.
"Almost 20 years ago now, hearing that good friends of ours lost their son, serving for only just a few months, and we felt that there were ways to help our soldiers. We wanted to do it, and we wanted to be a part of it all," said Debbie Panico, an organizer who individually wrapped 127 raffles.
"Being able to be here tonight, helping, makes you feel like you can contribute in a way that you can’t when you’re not able to serve," said John Tapinis, Debbie's son-in-law and longtime supporter of the Zilinski Memorial Fund. Tapinis helped emcee the dinner and run four live auctions.
Three warriors attended the dinner with their K9s by their side. These men expressed gratitude for what the fund represents and for the community's support.
David Crenshaw, a Wounded Warrior, remarked on his respect for all attendees: "The fact that these are generations that have already done service feel like it’s their obligation to continue their support; our service members and veterans should be proud Americans."
"We’ve got three human lives and three dog lives, and we have all been saved because of them. This community’s contribution is second to none," said Craig Heaton, a Wounded Warrior accompanied by his K9 Joan.
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