Tammy and Michael Ludwig, the parents of murder victim and Marine veteran Zachary Ludwig, honored their son on Tuesday afternoon by donating $16,000 to Warrior Homes of Collier County and the David Lawrence Centers .
The donation, raised through the sale of solar garden angels in Zach’s memory, will go toward helping veterans in need with housing, PTSD, and other necessities.
The event, held at Warrior Homes’ Delta House in East Naples near the Lakewood community, marked a year since Zach, 35, was killed in a New Year’s Eve shooting at the Port of the Islands Resort.
A decorated Marine sniper who served in Afghanistan from 2007 to 2011, Zach had lived at Warrior Homes during a difficult time in his life, battling through Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
“Zach had the biggest heart ... He was so kind and caring. We miss him so much, but his spirit lives on through this donation and the love from our community," said Tammy Ludwig, Zach's mother.
A Community Comes Together
In a show of support, the streets near the crime scene, alongside many residents' homes, were lined with hundreds of American flags. Neighbors also displayed Tammy’s solar angels in their yards, creating a glowing tribute to Zach’s memory 1 year after his murder.
“Zach’s story is a reminder of the sacrifices our veterans make ... This generous gift will help ensure that no veteran is left behind," said Dale Mullin, the founder and president of Warrior Homes of Collier County.
Remembering Zach
Zachary's last moments were marked by heroism. Witnesses, including all three employees inside the Port of the Islands Resort that evening, told NBC2 he confronted the shooter, James Gamble, a former resort manager. Employees also say that Gamble was looking to murder the owner of the hotel in retaliation for being fired.
He saved our lives that day ... Every last one of us would have been dead if not for Zach," said Gregory Bee, a former Port of the Islands charter captain who made the 9-1-1 call to alert the Collier County Sheriff's Office of the murder from inside the building.
Bee, who united with both parents during the event, became emotional as he apologized for not being able to save her son. Tammy reassured him:
Honoring His Legacy
For the Ludwig family, this donation is more than just financial support. It’s a way to carry on Zach’s legacy of helping others and remember their son's legacy forever.
“Zach always looked out for the underdog ... He was a hell of a soldier and an amazing son. We love you, Zach," said Michael Ludwig, Zach's father.
Warrior Homes of Collier County and the David Lawrence Centers plan to use the funds to expand housing and support services for veterans, and provide mental health services, ensuring that Zach’s sacrifice will make a lasting difference.