Honoring Cpl. Paul “Rocky” Zanowick II
Rocky’s Run For Freedom was created to honor the life and sacrifice of Cpl. Paul “Rocky” Zanowick II, a beloved son, friend, and Marine. His legacy inspires our community to unite, run, and support veterans in need.
A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
Marine Corporal Paul W. “Rocky” Zanowick, II was born in Kettering, Ohio on December 31, 1987. He attended Bishop Liebold Schools and graduated in 2006 from Miamisburg High School (MHS). During his time at MHS, he was on the football team, ran cross country and was a 4 year lettermen in track and field. He was very active in Scouting, both Boy Scouts and Venturing obtaining the rank of Eagle. He attended Sinclair Community College majoring in business.
He enlisted in the Marine Corps and reported for recruit training at Parris Island, South Carolina on January 21, 2008. After earning the title, “Marine”, Corporal Zanowick reported to the School of Infantry-East, Camp Geiger, North Carolina to attend the Basic Infantryman program of instruction and the Anti Tank Guided Missileman program of instruction graduating with a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) of 0352. In October 2008, after completion of MOS training, Corporal Zanowick reported for duty with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California. On June 1, 2009, Corporal Zanowick was promoted to Corporal.
On October 4, 2009, Corporal Zanowick deployed to Afghanistan with Regimental Combat Team 7 and served for 7 months in Helmand province in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. On April 9, 2011, Corporal Zanowick deployed a second time with Weapons Company, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was assigned as a vehicle commander with Blue Section, Combined Anti-Armored Team Two.
Corporal Zanowick was mortally wounded while conducting offensive operations in the Upper Gereshk Valley, Helmand Province, Afghanistan on June 3, 2011. His service awards include the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. Corporal Zanowick is survived by his son, Uriah, parents Paul and Nanette Zanowick, and sister Nicole Zanowick-Smith.
More Than A Run.
A Purpose.
Every year, Rocky’s Run For Freedom brings people together to celebrate community, honor our heroes, and support causes that create lasting impact – locally and nationwide.