About 300 people filled the clubhouse ballroom at the Westlake Golf and Country Club in Jackson last week in support of the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, II Memorial Fund to raise funds to sponsor service dogs for two disabled veterans.
A dinner and auction followed the Third Annual Westlake “Golf with Dennis” during the day, which was all organized by Joe Panico and his family, and supported by committee members, many of whom are members of the Westlake Golf and Country Club and volunteered to support the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, II Memorial Fund.
“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, who helped organize the event and individually wrap 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, Debbies’s son-in-law and longtime Zilinski Memorial Fund supporter, who helped emcee at the dinner and run four live auctions.
Three warriors attended the dinner with their K9s by their side, all grateful and proud to stand strong thanks to the fund. These men shared their appreciation for what the fund stands for and for the Westlake community’s support for this country and those who fight for it.
David Crenshaw, a Wounded Warrior, communicated his respect for all who attended. “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,” he said.
“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, alongside Joan, his K9, as he reflected on the community around him.
