Sixth Annual Run With Dennis To Collect Items For the Sgt. Denny Project

A message from the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, II Memorial Fund:

The new SGT. DENNY PROJECT will provide military working dogs and their handlers with hard-to-obtain items to support the training and welfare of these canine heroes.
 
The new program is named for Sergeant Denny, a two year old German Shepherd stationed in Afghanistan. Sgt. Denny’s handler is a Monmouth County native whose name cannot be released for security reasons. Sgt. Denny has been a military working dog for eight months and detects chemicals used in the manufacture of bombs. In addition to explosives, military dogs are trained to sniff out narcotics and track humans.
 
“Having a canine partner gives my son an edge in protecting other soldiers in combat and in disrupting the missions of enemy forces,” says Carolyn O’Connell, the mother of Sgt. Denny’s handler and also a Monmouth County resident. “Often the role of the military dog goes unrecognized. These animals are brave soldiers working along with their handlers. While their basic needs are met, a care package sends a message that both dog and handler are honored and remembered for their bravery by those of us back home.”

Nearly 600 military dogs are serving today in Afghanistan. Much is made of the bond among soldiers, but the union between soldier and dog in a combat zone is just as tight. Handlers and canines patrol together, day after day, linked by a leash and an innate understanding of each other. Sometimes they sleep side by side on military cots and they face the same dangers together. Military dogs in Afghanistan die as a result of attacks, heat exhaustion and other causes.

Those interested can help with the new SGT. DENNY PROJECT by bringing any of the following items to the Run For Dennis on Sunday, November 13. The run is hosted every year to benefit the Lt. Dennis W. Zilinski, II Memorial Fund which provides care and support for those serving our country and their families.

Donations will be shipped to Sgt. Denny’s unit in Afghanistan:

• Tennis balls (new or gently used), which are used as a training reward for bomb sniffing dogs

• One-ingredient treats (such as freeze dried liver)

• Kong® toys

• Nylabone® chews and toys

• Unscented shampoo with oatmeal added to prevent dry skin

• Collapsible water bowls

• Leather leashes

 
To make a monetary donation to cover shipping costs, mail a check to Sgt. Denny Project, P.O. Box 35, Holmdel NJ 07733.For more information, call 732-500-7735.