Shootout for Soldiers Coming to Paragon Star – October 4

Shootout for Soldiers to Honor the Legacy of 1st LT Donaldson P. Tillar III Presented in partnership with the Kansas State Lacrosse Alumni Organization Location: Paragon Star, Lee’s Summit, MO Kansas City, MO — Shootout for Soldiers, a national lacrosse event supporting American veterans and service members, proudly announces a special dedication honoring 1st Lieutenant Donaldson P. “Donnie” Tillar III—a beloved figure in Kansas State University’s lacrosse history and a fallen hero of the Gulf War. A Coach, a Leader, a Legacy Donnie Tillar was more than just the first coach of Kansas State Lacrosse. A 1988 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and an exceptionally gifted lacrosse player, Donnie led the K-State program in the spring of 1990 during its inaugural season. His influence, both on and off the field, would shape the team’s identity for decades to come. Donnie brought discipline, fundamentals, and a deep respect for the sport—introducing players not only to the game’s mechanics but also to its Native American roots and spirit. “Donnie gave us lacrosse,” alumni have often said. “He taught us the warrior’s game with kindness, inclusion, and the demand for our best effort—always with a smile.” Though young, cool, and supremely athletic, Donnie remained humble, welcoming new players with warmth and encouragement. His presence made the field a place of growth, joy, and camaraderie. A Sacrifice Never Forgotten In the summer of 1990, shortly after launching the K-State program, Donnie was deployed with the 1st Infantry Division in response to Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. On February 27, 1991, during the final day of combat operations in the Gulf War, he, along with eight fellow soldiers, was killed in action when their Black Hawk helicopter was shot down near Ar Rumayalla Air Base in southern Iraq. The news sent shockwaves through the K-State lacrosse community and the broader military family. Yet, from this tragic loss, a legacy of inspiration and service was born. K-State Lacrosse soon dedicated its program in Donnie’s name, and for over 30 years, players have worn his name on their sleeves, honoring his spirit with every pass, goal, and ground ball. The Spirit of the Game Lives On In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, the KSU Lacrosse Alumni rallied to reignite Donnie’s legacy through the Donnie Tillar Spirit of the Game Campaign. Custom lacrosse sticks were sold—with the promise that each stick would be used to bring a new player into the sport. Funds raised outfitted the team with new helmets and uniforms, once again passing the torch from one generation to the next. In addition to honoring Donnie, Shootout for Soldiers and the KSU Lacrosse Alumni are committed to carrying his legacy forward in Kansas City by helping to grow the game locally. With more than 60 K-State Lacrosse alums in the metro, we’re leveraging our members and organizational infrastructure to expand access, share the spirit of the game, and inspire new players. As the K-State Lacrosse team prepares for the 2025-26 season, players carry a fire that started long before they were born—a fire lit by Donnie in 1990. That passion for team, respect, and joy is still the heartbeat of KSU Lacrosse. A Life Remembered Donnie’s story continues through the voices of those who knew him best. Fellow West Point graduate Maj. Brian Mahoney recalls carefree road trips, spontaneous adventures, and the quiet strength Donnie carried into every room—and every cockpit. Retired Col. Robert Bowden, Donnie’s flight school “stick buddy,” speaks of a partner with rare composure, dedication, and humanity. Their words paint a picture of a young man who loved deeply, laughed freely, and gave his all—to his team, his country, and his friends. “Donnie was the kind of person who found the good in every moment,” Bowden said. “He made you want to live better, lead better, and be better.” Join Us Shootout for Soldiers invites all members of the lacrosse and military community to join in honoring 1st LT Donaldson P. Tillar III. His legacy is not only etched into the fabric of Kansas State Lacrosse—but into the spirit of the game itself.

Event Links

Website: https://go.evvnt.com/3254802-0

Read More

View Less