Dennis William Zilinski II

West Point, 2004

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Kenny Rogers on February 6, 2006:

Regrettably, Dennis and I ran in different circles during our time as classmates at West Point, so we didn't have much interaction with each other. However, after graduation our common branch of infantry resulted in the crossing of our paths, and I was fortunate enough to be exposed to the infectious smile that many contributors to this eulogy page speak of. With ample down time over the course of IOBC, I was able to get to know "Z" on a more personal level and his introverted facade melted away to reveal a personality and sense of humor that made me disappointed that fate had kept me out of the Dennis Zilinski "loop" for so long. So, as we went through OBC, I was always sure to say "what's up" when I saw him or to throw up a wave when I saw that Grand Cherokee with Jersey plates. I figured that since this is a small world, let alone a small army, I'd have the opportunity to hang out with him more in the future. But as it turns out too often, I'll have to wait until I pass to join him with the rest of the heroes of years gone by. When I visit my memory of Dennis Zilinski, it is a memory that is bittersweet. I am incredibly thankful for all the times we shared, but I am regretful for not taking the opportunity to get to know him better. He will live on in the hearts and prayers of all that new him.

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