Texas Wounded Warrior Pro-Am 2022

s o n e eroes

T

WEEKEND SCHED

Cascades Country Club

Wounded Warrior -Hole Scramble - Cascades

inner Party – Rio Neches Ranch

Eagles Bluff Country Club

Wounded Warrior -Hole Scramble - Eagles Bluff

Warrior Party only – The Ranch at Pine Mountain

Police Escort to Grace Academy

Warrior Golf Instruction with PGA Professionals

Willow Brook Country Club

Presentation of Colors and National Anthem

15th Annual Texas Wounded Warrior Pro-Am Awards Ceremony txwoundedwarrior.com

A POWERFUL FEELING

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More speed, more distance.

More grooves, more control.

WoundedTEXASWarrior

October 1, 2022

o o r onore o n e rriors n o r e s trioti o nities

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation, WELCOME! Over the past fifteen years, we have been supported by the generosity and patriotism of our Texas communities. Thanks to all of you volunteers, participants, sponsors, board members and guests who have made these fifteen years a success

We are privileged to honor military men and women of this nation who protect our freedom. As we salute those who have given the ultimate sacrifice we give our unconditional support to those injured both on and off the battlefield. We want to also remember the caregivers who continually give support to our military families, so that their lives might still hold meaning and definition and a future with hope.

Please welcome the Wounded Warriors and their caregivers during these events and extend a handshake or hug along with a word of support. We Texans Never Let The Sun Set On Freedom

Thank you, ick Goetz, Chairman

Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation

WoundedTEXASWarrior

Hi hli hts o unds e pended or the Wounded Warriors Oct to Sept

• 2021 Texas Wounded Warrior Pro-Am at Horseshoe Bay, Texas - Escondido Golf Club $35,000

• 2021 Texas Wounded Warrior Pro-Am at Tyler, Texas – Cascades Country Club $40,000

• 2021 Warrior and Family Support Center – Ft. Sam Houston $5,000

• 2021 Local Warrior events and support$5,000

• 2021-2022 Financial support for individual Warrior’s personal needs $50,000

• 2022 Texas Wounded Warrior Pro-Am at Fort Worth, TX - Mira Vista Country Club $40,000

• 2022 Support of PGA HOPE (Help Our Patriots Everywhere) – Ft. Hood, TX $20,000

• 2022 Texas Wounded Warrior Pro-Am at Amarillo, Texas – Tascosa Golf Club $65,000

• 2022 Golf sponsorships for Wounded Warrior additional events - $8,000

• 2022 PING club fitting trip for Wounded Warriors – Phoenix, Arizona $3,000

• 2021 & 2022 Hill Country Family Weekend Retreats for Warriors with Evangelist Rick Hughes $40,000

• 2022 UT Tyler Veteran Scholarships $30,000

• 2022 North Texas Warrior Golf Association Annual Golf event sponsorship $6,000

• 2022 Rose City Air Fest sponsorship $10,000

• 2022 Tyler Junior College Veteran Scholarships $25,000

• 2022 East Texas Baptist University Veteran Scholarships $25,000

• 2022 CRC Landscape Apprenticeship Equipment for Veteran Student Horticulture Training in East Texas $30,000

• 2022 Veteran Golfers Association Sponsorship $6,500

ort to t e rriors

Over ,

The Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation donations continue to provide opportunities for us to recognize Wounded Warriors and their families. We have been able to financially support a number of Wounded Warriors. We maintain our objectives and mission —“it’s all about the warriors.” That approach keeps everything we do in perspective and has helped us realize steady growth; increase our knowledge and awareness; and promote ideas that are most effective and beneficial for the warriors.

Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation History

WoundedTEXASWarrior

Giving Back To Those Who Have Served

All Of Us So Honorably and Courageously

The Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation began in 2007 in Tyler shortly after retired Senior PGA Tour professional Dick Goetz met Ron Nash of Dallas, a retired Navy Lt. Commander, at a golf tournament in Dallas.

Goetz had recently spent some time on the driving range with seriously injured wounded warriors at Camp LeJeune, N.C., helping them with their golf swings and basic fundamentals of the game.

Goetz and Nash discussed the idea of bringing some wounded warriors to Tyler for a Pro-Am. They co-founded the birth of the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation.

The inaugural event in 2008 was a one-day Pro-Am with seven wounded warriors from Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio participating. The following year, a two-day event for 17 wounded warriors included a party the rst night and a ProAm the next day.

Over the past fteen years, we have expanded our golf events throughout the state of Texas to include Amarillo, Ft. Worth, Horseshoe Bay and Tyler. Each of these Pro-Am events include 25-40 injured warriors and we have added special activities for the spouses of the warriors at several events.

The Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation hosts two retreats with a spiritual emphasis in March and November bene ting 25 warriors and their families.

Several professional golfers, including Bobby Nichols, Mark Brooks, Charles Coody, Homero Blancas, and the late Bruce Lietzke have donated their time helping warriors on the day of the ProAm.

Medical experts and military leaders say that letting

these men and women vent their frustrations on the golf course helps some of them forget their injuries for a time and create determination they need for rehabilitation.

Many retired generals (including Maj. Gen. Dave Garza, USMC; Maj. Gen. Paul Landers, USAF; Brig. Gen. Jack Ihle USAF; Maj. Gen. Bob Dickerson, USMC; Maj. Gen. Bob Dulaney, USAF; Maj. Gen. Greg Champion, US Army; and Adm. Mark Ferguson) and other high-ranking military of cers have attended the festivities and played in the Pro-Am events. Musicians and comedians from around the country volunteer their time. In 2012, country and western singer Randy Travis entertained the warriors.

While in Tyler, warriors visit schools, where they are given a rousing patriotic welcome by hundreds of students waving American ags. “That greeting meant so much,” said one warrior after the event. “I had trouble maintaining my composure.”

Businesses from the gol ng industry have provided excellent sponsorship support over the years that the Pro-Am events have been held. Over $7,000,000 has been raised to help wounded warriors since the rst Pro-Am was held. More than 700 wounded warriors and their families have received assistance.

The Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation focuses on providing help to wounded warriors who live in Texas.

“I’m often asked why our organization is necessary since our government is supposed to take care of its wounded military,” said Goetz. “Our mission is to help provide critical assistance when veterans’ bene ts are slow in getting started or do not meet the full scope of basic needs for warriors and their families.”

TheTexasWoundedWarrior Foundation is a 501c(3) organization.

rriors nk o etters

The Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation (T WWF) has truly been one of the best things to happen to my family and me. I am forever grateful for the new bonds that have been formed over the past year and a half. I only wish I had found this organization sooner. To those who have funded this, making this possible, I have the utmost gratitude for your support. Creating the opportunity to get the support I truly needed and help my fellow veterans is a blessing. I cannot thank you enough.

STEPHEN SHAW, SERGEANT FIRST CLASS, US ARM

Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation, the Goetz family, and their support team have been a Godsend to our organization. Their continued support has allowed us to grow as an organization, but more importantly, they have supported the growth and the healing of the warriors we serve. By including us in the events they host throughout the year, our warriors have been able to bond with other warriors and build lasting friendships beyond service, which aids our warriors as they reintegrate into civilian society.

JOSH SCHMI T, PRESI ENT, NORTH TE AS WARRIOR GOLF ASSOCIATION

Today was an awesome day and a great stress relief. My golf journey has come a long way in years and the TWWF is the reason. This organization got me back into a game I hated. They got me back on target and tightened up my shot group. I have learned a great deal about this game by watching everyone I play with. I’m very thankful to have crossed paths with the TWWF, and each of you that I have met up to this point. This game, and my fellow warriors, has changed my life.

ROBERT OUNG, SERGEANT MAJOR, USMCASSOCIATION

I am Aaron Glynn, a Veteran having served in the Marine Corps with two tours in Ira during the Ira Campaign. I recently was in need of assistance and Mr. Nash made himself available to me offering help with some expenses and other resources to assist me as I was needing to not fall behind and end up in a big hole financially. In the next few months, I will be looking to get back into my own place and get a new vehicle that is much needed. ou were a blessing for me in my time of need as I have had many ups and downs for many years. I’m currently working to get back on my feet again. This assistance surely has saved me from any further issues as I work through my hard time. I thank you so very much for doing all you do by providing Texas Veterans with assistance and resources. Thank you - it is appreciated and you are appreciated

I would like to personally thank you and Mr. on Nash for your help with my rental expenses. our generosity has helped me keep my apartment and remain in college. Words can’t really express my gratitude. But from the depths of my heart, I truly thank the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation and Mr. on Nash.

MARC WALKER

I wanted to let you know how thankful and appreciative we are for your helping my family during this hard time. This just goes to show how strong the military bond is and how we have great organizations helping our brothers and sisters during their time of need and hardship. Thank you so much for what y’all do and May God bless this organization for everything y’all do

BR ON AN NAOMI RE NA

ichard and I just wanted to Thank ou for the help you gave us for our rent this past month. We are so Grateful and VE Thankful. We are going through some changes, as ichard’s health has progressed, so when we say we are Thankful, please believe we are. God Bless ou. Keep doing what you’re doing this organization is exactly what our Veterans need.

RICHAR RI ER

Our family just wanted to send a thank you to you and the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation. When Sgt Sandoval’s career was suddenly halted due to injuries, we had a hard time transitioning into civilian life. That was met with even more hurdles when I too became disabled following several brain tumors and complications post craniotomy. aising a family during a pandemic is hard enough, but doing so under our circumstances proved even harder. Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation truly has been a shining light for us-not only relieving such a huge financial burden but by giving us invaluable resources to help make that transition a little bit easier long term. Our family really cannot thank you all enough. Thank you for all you have done for us and continue to do for families who find themselves in similar situations. God’s speed.

SAN O AL FAMIL

AARON GL NN, MARINE CORPS

About 21 years ago, a group of men at Eagle’s Bluff Country Club, a new golf course community on Lake Palestine, began to play regularly several mornings each week. They called themselves “The Dew Boys”, since the dew was still on the grass when they teed off. The companionship became a key ingredient in each of their lives.

Over the years, in the spirit of the season, the Dew Boys collected money for various charities at their annual Christmas banquet. Eight years ago, the group decided to concentrate on helping veterans in East Texas transition to productive civilian careers by assisting them with their higher education--covering needs that are not suf ciently funded by the VA and other government agencies. Wounded veterans would receive priority.

A scholarship fund was established at UT Tyler, and named for an original Dew Boy, Richard Lewis, and his wife, who were avid supporters of veteran causes. Because the goals closely matched those of the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation, a partnership was formed, with the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation matching (and often exceeding) the money raised for the scholarship.

Over the past 8 years UT Tyler has received more than $180,000 for assistance to veterans for awarded scholarships.

Boys

rien o e e s o n e rrior o n tion Walter Rainwater

The Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation has many friends and supporters. Walter ainwater is one of those valued friends.

He was raised in Ft. Worth attended Paschal High School and later TC . Walter was an extremely good amateur golfer. In my first conversation with Walter we visited about growing up in the Dallas Ft. Worth area and remembered many of the same golfers we competed against in high school and college. Walter played on the TC golf team with Charles Coody, Don Massengale, and others while I was finishing high school. Gene Shields was my golf coach and was a former TC golfer as well. Walter and his teammates proved to be a formidable challenge to a fairly confident high school golf team.

Walter’s brother, ichard, founded the ainwater Charitable Foundation (rainwatercharitablefoundation.org) and through the years it has helped many worthy causes.

The ainwater Charitable Foundation has provided needed help to so many organizations, including several First Tee programs here in East Texas and around the state. In addition, they have helped several veterans’ groups to include PGA-HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) and the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation.

Because of the ainwater Charitable Foundation, the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation has been able to get many wounded veterans interested in learning golf. Through golf instruction, learning rules and eti uette, they have turned their attention towards new skills that they can apply. The financial support Walter has made available to us has helped our organization open new areas for instruction, add more tournament sites and opportunities for competition among the veterans.

Never enough words of appreciation can be said of Walter’s generosity, kindness, and interest towards the number of people who have been helped. Along with friends like the ainwater family, we will continue to strive for the opportunity to be of assistance to our greatest asset The nited States Military.

AMARILLO WOUN E WARRIORS

TOURNE RAISES RECOR SETTING

,By Lance Lahnert

ick Algeria will never forget that 005 day in Ira . Algeria’s life changed forever when the vehicle he rode in was blown up by a roadside bomb. However, days for Algeria like July 5, 0 , in Amarillo not only eases the pain of his physical and mental challenges, it literally brings out a smile to him and his fellow disabled veterans. What happened in Amarillo on July 5 was the 5th Annual Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation Golf Tournament held on the two -hole courses of the Tascosa Golf Club. Algeria, 9, was one of veterans playing in the tournament which had 0 players tee it up including many prominent movers and shakers of Amarillo and raised the most money ever for a TWWF golf tournament at 5 ,000. These events are a way for us to get out and away from the stresses from work, our injuries, or dealing with PTSD, said Algeria, who lives in Lewisville, T , and works for Microsoft. When we get out on the course with the guys experiencing the same thing and play golf and put everything in the background, it’s awesome for all of us. To me, it’s getting the chance to see places that I thought I would never go, like Amarillo, Tyler and Horseshoe Bay. Those aren’t places you typically say, Hey, let’s go there.’ But once you get there and meet the people and members, I mean its life changing. Everybody is so accommodating and welcoming even though it’s our first time meeting. We all hang out, talk together. It’s just an amazing feeling.

Texas Panhandle businessman Scot Pike is the energy behind the success of the Amarillo TWWF tournament. Pike was moved nearly to tears playing in a Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation tournament in Tyler six years ago and the idea hit why not try and start a TWWF tournament in Amarillo. The Amarillo TWWF tournament has grown in number of players and financially each year under Pike. This year he added a co-chairman in Amarillo businessman Scotty Knutson. Even before the golfers tee off in Amarillo, the vibe is one of respect and awe. Each Wounded Warrior is announced and applauded as they stand in front of the gathering. yan Mayes, played the bag pipes, providing a touching version of Amazing Grace walking until he disappeared out of sight. Algeria has played in six TWWF events, in July making his second trip to Amarillo. Algeria praised the way the opening ceremonies unfolded in Amarillo, along with the drivers, wedges, golf bags, yardage view finders and much more that were handed out in a drawing after the golf was played. It’s kind of overwhelming to see people support us disabled veterans, Algeria said. They are going out of there way spending money on us. To know they care enough to give like that and keep these events going, it’s just amazing. When these type of events go out for sign up, they are gone in minutes. I mean it’s gone really fast. All of us are so excited. That’s because everything done there in Amarillo, like the opening ceremony, like the awards at the end, it’s all done first class. For us, that’s something we don’t see often. So for us to be a part of this, like just the way the members of the clubs treat us, it’s so amazing. It’s so fun. All of us look forward to these events. Pike and Knutson said the hours of work behind the scenes is well worth their time. Pike has been deeply impressed by the way Amarillo supports the TWWF Tournament and his words express those heartfelt feelings. What a great community Pike said. To come out in support of our warriors like

this is amazing! We had over 250 people out to play and support our great cause! “It’s especially rewarding to me to have my whole family out here doing whatever it takes to make this dream come true. The expansion to 44 teams this year, from 31 teams last year, was Scotty Knutson’s idea. I recruited him six months ago to help us get to the next level. It was his idea to expand to both courses which opened the door to what we saw that day. He jumped in with recruiting new team sponsors, as well as tee box sponsors. His energy and appreciation of the warriors is infectious.

“And what a great setting. Tascosa Golf Club and its staff did a great job. It was an honor to present to the heartbeat of the Club, my friend and PGA Professional, Alan Coe with a plaque in appreciation of everything he’s done to promote and assist in all of our TWWF events. His entire staff showed up! I need to say “Thank you” to Jay Held, owner of Preston West/Bar 3. Sunday evening, he provided a prime rib dinner for all the warriors and board members and hosted our annual putting contest.

“Jorge Albarran from Jorge’s Mexican Bar & Grill has provided the after tournament meal since we started. To all my friends that played and supported us for the past ve years, a big THANK YOU. It’s not enough, but Thank You for everything.”

“On behalf of the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation board, the Knutson family and my family, thank you for making my dream come true! I pray one day we won’t need to do this anymore! God bless!”

Knutson, like Pike, has played in the Wounded Warrior Tournament several times. He has a whole new perspective after being co-chairman and having conversations with many of the Wounded Warriors. “After several years of playing in the Wounded Warrior Tournament and getting to be around one Warrior on my team, I got the unique privilege of helping run the tournament this year and getting to spend time with each and every Warrior that showed up to the tournament,” Knutson said. “I got the wonderful experience getting to know these guys and learning that what we’re doing truly helps the men and women that are willing to do things that insure our freedom. This was truly a humbling experience.”

Algeria spent 22 years in the service – a lot of that away from his family. He has no regrets serving his country and when not playing in TWWF golf events he plays in the Dallas-area with a special person –his son. “To me, my service was the best of times,” Algeria said. “There were a lot of bad times with Iraq. But the bonds I have formed with other soldiers and veterans, I mean that’s something I can never say I wish it didn’t happen. Besides kids and my spouse, that’s the best time of my life. “My passion from golf came from my son (Xavien), ironically. I wanted to spend time with him. He’s 22 now. When I was gone and deployed, of course I missed so much time like birthdays, little events I was always gone for. If I can catch up some of that time playing golf together, it’s awesome.” Algeria impressed his gol ng teammates in Amarillo with a birdie on a tough Par 3 on the Tascosa Golf Course. The group playing in a scramble format used his tee shot and he made the putt. High ves galore were handed out. Algeria’s smile said it all. He was enjoying representing the Texas Wounded Warriors and making new friends in Amarillo. Thank you is never enough!

THE TRAILS

AT TASCOSA GOLF CLUB COMING SOON

Life at the Trails. It’s more than just Golf. The Trails is the only residential golf club community in Amarillo. There are over 500 home sites in the subdivision, which is adjacent to the south side of the Tascosa course and within 2.5 miles of the medical community.

Tascosa Development Company

The Trails at Tascosa Golf Club 4502 Fairway Dr., Amarillo, TX 79124

www.tascosagolfclub.com 806.342.3051 ext. 1 trails@tascosagolfclub.com

Warrior Family Retreat 2022

Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation

It has been the happy tradition of the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation to do something for the ENTIRE WARRIOR FAMILY. For the past several years this something has taken place in New Braunfels, Texas, at the T Bar M Camp. The event is a Family Retreat, two nights and three days.

The Warrior Family Retreat is for the warrior, spouse, and family, and T Bar M is a family friendly place. The massive grounds include a full-size gymnasium with ping pong, shuf e board, pool, and a weight room. There are tennis courts, a putting green, swimming pool, walking trails, baseball diamond, meeting rooms, meals, and lodging. It is also a good place to simply RELAX. There is no cost to the individuals or families.

The weekend also includes Biblical teaching from evangelist Rick Hughes. Rick has been part of the retreats since their beginning (2016). He teaches three 45-minute sessions with the adults and teens, while the kids 11 and under enjoy some special wellplanned activities. Rick’s humorous stories and his experiences from college football days with Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant at the University of Alabama, allow him to have great rapport with his audience. His approach is not an appeal to emotions but rather a challenge to the intellect (rickhughesministries.org). There have been some changed lives from these 45-minute sessions.

The warriors and their families enjoy the retreats…so do the kids.

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Proud to Support the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation

FIRST SALUTE

I was an orphan raised in a very abusive foster-care environment which ultimately led me to leave and provide for myself at the age of fourteen. Finishing high school, working full time, and not having parental guidance, was the perfect combination to make poor life decisions. I was seventeen when a Judge “recommended” military service instead of alternative courses of action. I was not a dumb kid and knew that if I didn’t change quickly, I’d probably end up incarcerated. I joined the Marine Corps and went to recruit training in 1988.

I joined the Marine Corps as an infantryman and was later assigned as a Military Policeman. I deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1991 and served in Operation Desert Storm. After returning, I served as a Drill Instructor and then returned to the operating forces. I did a second tour on the drill eld, where I served as a Senior Drill Instructor, Chief Drill Instructor, Physical Training Instructor, and Chief Instructor of the Drill Instructor School. I then returned to the operating forces and served as Protective Services Of cer during the initial push of Operation Iraqi Freedom. I was then promoted to First Sergeant and assigned to a ri e company for multiple deployments and one more tour to the drill eld before being promoted to Sergeant Major. I then reactivated 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines and deployed back to Iraq. After that deployment, I was assigned to Recruiting Station Dallas, then retired in August 2011.

After retiring, I was a Department of State Diplomatic Protective Services contractor and worked at the United States Consulate in Basrah, Iraq. I joined the Farmers Branch Police Department in January 2013 and resigned in January 2022 to take a consulting job with Korn Ferry.

I met my best friend and wife in November 1995 in San Diego, CA. Jennifer is from Garland, TX, and was working in San Diego when we met. We married and had two children, Justin and Lauren. They were both born in La Jolla, CA, and raised in San Diego until relocating to Camp Lejeune in 2008. We moved to Wylie, TX, in 2010, and both graduated from Wylie East High School. Justin played football and ran track, and Lauren was on the Drill Team. Justin was the 2017 State Champion for 110-meter High Hurdles and 300-meter Hurdles and was recruited by numerous D-1 schools. He committed to the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he graduated and was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in 2022. He competed in the NCAA Track and Field Championships and USA Track and Field Championships in Eugene, OR. Lauren received numerous scholarships and currently attends the University of Mississippi, where she is pursuing a degree in Finance. She just completed an internship

Sergeant Major (ret.) Robert Young, USMC giving the First Salute to his son, 2nd Lieutenant Justin Young

at Independent Financial in McKinney, TX. She returned to Ol’e Miss, and she is a recruitment counselor for the Phi Mu Sorority. Jennifer was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2021 and is currently recovering from surgery and treatment.

I have had several life-changing experiences:

1. Parenting: The births of my children were the most joyous days of my life. Growing up dirt-poor in a very abusive environment, I spent many nights tired, cold, and lonely. I never wanted my children to experience this, and I did my best to provide them with a healthy, loving environment. Jennifer can be credited for the children’s success because I missed quite a bit of their upbringing as I was constantly deployed.

2. Wounded In Action- the events leading up to this were life-changing and nearly unbelievable. I am lucky to be alive after being shot in Iraq in August 2004.

3. Chemical Dependency/Alcoholism- I was an alcoholic by age 15. I put myself through alcohol rehabilitation in March 2011 and have been sober since then.

4. Jennifer was diagnosed with cancer in April 2021.

5. I was baptized in May 2021.

Justin did not initially desire to attend West Point. He knew he wanted to run for a D-1 school, and he considered many options in Texas, West Virginia, Florida, and all of the service academies. Justin attended summer track camps at the U.S. Naval Academy during his 9th, 10th, and 11th-grade years and the Naval Academy Summer Seminar during his 11th-grade summer. I thought he would follow my naval heritage and commit to the Naval Academy. Justin decided to conduct an of cial visit to West Point, and the two of us visited. The coaching staff was phenomenal; he loved their program and ultimately committed there.

The “Silver Dollar Salute.”- The rst salute is an old tradition for all US Service Branches in which newly commissioned of cers give a silver dollar to the person from whom they receive the very rst salute of their career. While no one knows where this tradition originated, some suggest we inherited it from the British regiments garrisoned in the US during the colonial era. As the story goes, some traditions and customs were passed on to newly-formed American units. New of cers were assigned an enlisted adviser who showed them the ropes and taught them the regimental history and the ins and outs of the military profession. Lieutenants compensated their enlisted advisers with a small amount of money. In the early 1800s, American Second Lieutenants received about $25 monthly as base pay, a rations allowance of about $3, and an additional allowance of $1 for their enlisted adviser. While the adviser’s pay was eventually discontinued, the responsibility for mentoring the newly commissioned of cer continued. This relationship is thought to be the basis for this tradition. This coin should represent the deep-felt gratitude for the mentorship and lessons imparted by the Non-Commissioned Of cer on his Lieutenant before he sends him out into the world to embark on the brotherhood and profession of arms. The silver in a real silver dollar represents a standard’s delity. This coin will be a store of value both in the memory it makes, its intrinsic value as a precious metal, and its part in American history.

Proud partner of the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation

Member FDIC

2021 Tyler Pro-Am

Fifteen years ago, PGA Professionals Dick Goetz and Ron Nash conceived an idea that began with a simple mission – to help Wounded Warriors and members of our military that have been wounded in battle or medically discharged nd some peace, therapy and healing on the golf course. The result was the birth of the Tyler Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation Pro-Am, the event that began the amazing journey for a foundation that has since raised in excess of $7.5 million and helped over 750 Warrior families in their healing and reintegration process. The 14th Annual Tyler Pro-Am was held the weekend of October 2 – October 4, and was lled with great golf, delicious food, superb entertainment, and most of all wonderful fellowship and bonding time for the Warriors and the all the participants in the weekend event. The weekend began with a steak dinner at Harry Leatherwood’s beautiful Rio Neches Ranch for nearly 200 people on October 2, preceded by a Saturday 9-hole scramble event on the back nine at The Cascades, with 4-player teams consisting of 2 Wounded Warriors and 2 golf members of The Cascades Country Club. Sunday was full of activity, beginning with brunch at Eagles Bluff Country Club and then more golf with a front nine scramble and teams consisting of 2 Warriors and 2 Eagles Bluff members. After a brief rest, dinner was served at the Cascades Country Club and was followed by a casino party. There were donated prizes ranging from at panel televisions to gorgeous hand-made quilts, provided for the Wounded Warriors and guests holding the most chips at the end of the evening. The weekend culminated with the Monday Pro-Am on October 4th at The Cascades with a full eld event of 22 teams. Most Texas Wounded Warrior Pro-Am events have 5-person teams consisting of a PGA Professional, a Wounded Warrior, and three amateurs. The format allows for incredible fellowship and bonding time for each team on the golf course, and is the core principle around which the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation is built. The opportunity to show our incredible gratitude, and help our Warriors heal through quality time on the golf course is an unparalleled experience. The tremendous pride that Tyler shows in providing our Warriors with a Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation Pro-Am weekend full of great experiences and memories continues to be a cornerstone around which the Foundation grows. Thank you Tyler – the Foundation couldn’t be more proud to call the Rose Capital of the World home!

Texas

By Richard W. Schmitt, Lt Col, USAF RETIRED

An Old Warrior’s Story

My parents only called me Richard when I got caught . . . The rest of the world knows me as Rick. I left home 10 days after high school in Sacramento, CA to join the 9th class at the new Air Force Academy, graduating in 1967. After pilot training, I got shuttled around, landing in the back seat of a brand-new F-4E (note, the plane had 22 total hours, which beat my F-4 time). We took off from Eglin AFB, FL for Da Nang AB, SVN, a long, uncomfortable ight in a ghter aircraft. Like everything else in those days, we took the long way around, landing in Korea for a possible show down with North Korea. We were upset their Migs had shot down an American EC-121 over international water and seriously considered returning the favor. Following some VERY tense weeks, we were allowed to proceed to the war we thought we had been invited to.

Landing at Da Nang, the squadron was split up (so a whole squadron wouldn’t DEROS at the same time), and I was introduced to the F-4D and the Wild Boars of the 390th TFS (I cried over losing the brand-new F4-E aircraft WITH A NOSE GUN!!!). I learned why that made such a difference a few months later when I was launched from alert with a load of high-drag 500 # bombs and napalm, to go the rescue of a C-130 which was under attack by a MIG-21 over North Viet Nam. Here came the Cavalry(!) - with nothing but four 38 caliber pistols in our survival vests for forward ring weapons. We kept that quietly to ourselves, while wondering just what we were going to do in a gun ght! Fortunately, nobody told the MIG driver, who couldn’t seem to get behind the C-130 (buck fever?), so he bid a rapid retreat. Unfortunately, prior to our arrival, he had already put an Atoll missile into a Jolley Green Giant with nine souls on board. While successful for the C-130 rescue effort, the chopper loss left a sour note in our souls. My time at Da Nang* nally ended after a few exciting days (AAA hits, on re, engine cored by a bull pup missile (mine) exploding a few feet in front of me and entering my right engine, SAMs, rocket

Texas

attacks, bad juju, etc.). Oh, on my very last morning at Da Nang while walking to breakfast, a Navy C-121 crashed within 100 feet of me. Time to leave! It was back to the world for 9 months before starting all over again.

My second combat tour location was Korat RTAFB, Thailand. BOY what a difference from ‘Nam!!! The place was BEAUTIFUL. My squadron ew mostly at night. We ew several dual missions. We would take off with bombs and missiles so that we could y Combat Air Patrol (CAP) for AC-130’s, B-52’s, or others (once a SR-71), and then air refuel and get assigned a bombing target. It made for long nights, but it was cooler than day missions. On one B-52 CAP, our radar controller vectored my ight after a bogey way north around the border of NVN and Laos. At night, we ew one aircraft forward (“eyeball”) to ID the target, and one back to be the shooter. As the “eyeball”, I got my speed up, lights out, and my head in the radar. I couldn’t nd the bogey amid all the thunderstorms. When I got to the target location, I entered a massive thunderstorm. Water poured out my air conditioning vents, when my wingman’s radar locked on to me! I screamed at him to not shoot, all the while bouncing around the cockpit due to the violent weather. Suddenly I broke out of the storm and was immediately locked up by multiple SAM sites radars. I looked down and realized I was north of Hanoi where I wasn’t supposed to be. No Mig driver would be foolish enough to be up in this weather, so I dove to break lock of the SAMs and got out of Dodge. The controller admitted he had probably been tracking the thunderstorm (instead of Migs), so we went home.

I nished my Viet Nam experience with 426 combat missions in the F-4. My Air Force career continued with a tour at RAF Lakenheath, England in F-4Ds, a maintenance of cer tour at George AFB, CA, followed by an F-4 Instructor tour with the Imperial Iranian Air Force at Mehrabad AB, Tehran, Iran. There we had two years of relative peace, followed by a very impressive revolution. The American families were evacuated, but the ten F-4 instructor pilots were required to stay. Things got seriously grim when the “revolutionary guard” crowds started roaming Tehran looking for “enemies”. It was January, snowy, cold, with no gas nor electricity. For our safety we were paired up and given keys to various apartments around town. Just like in a spy movie! We were to change apartments every two days, walking at night to a new one. Because they were shutting off the water supply, the rst thing we did was to ll the bathtub with water. On the third day, the tub froze over! Each move, we calculated the closest soccer eld that would be used for a helicopter evacuation. Finally, word came down that we were to be evacuated. An early morning rendezvous with a minibus (darkened windows, armed guard) took my partner and me to the airport for a ight out. It was a long trip, but who cared?

I retired from the United States Air Force in the rank of Lieutenant Colonel after 24 years. I still can’t believe that they paid me to have that much fun.

As a side note,upon settling inTyler,TX,I was delighted to nd a tired old friend from that time of my life,parked at the Historic Aviation Memorial Museum at Tyler Pounds Field,with the Boers Head patch proudly on her side: F-4D tail #812. Turns out my logbook shows we did 6 combat sorties together back in the day!

The 2022 Rose City Air Fest at Tyler Pounds Field was a great success -- among the many planes in ight and on the eld were: Rick and his F4 Phantom; Maj. Gen. (ret.) Paul Landers who ew 375 Viet Nam combat missions in a Cessna O-1 Bird Dog; and “Doc”- one of the only two B29’s still ying. Wounded Warrior families along with a great crowd of spectators enjoyed the show.

e s o n e rrior ont in Hall Family

Through generations the Hall family has served in almost every branch of the military. Seaman ecruit Sarah Hall, Monte and Paula Hall’s daughter, and the youngest active duty family member, joined the .S. Coast Guard this year. The Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation is proud of her and the entire family and is grateful to them for their continued service to keep our country strong and free.

Their patriotism has continued to support our military for the past twelve years, Monte, Gerry and Pam Hall of Hall Buick GMC of Tyler have hosted Texas Wounded Warrior Month in May - Hall Chevrolet Buick GMC of Canton joined in 0 9. For each vehicle sold, the Halls donated a portion of the sale to the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation. Over the years, the Halls’ have contributed over 00,000 and these donations have made it possible for the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation to purchase a truck for a wounded warrior that accommodated a 00 pound wheelchair and lift as well as three -passenger vans one for Tyler and two for the Burnet and Marble Falls area which help wounded warriors travel back-and-forth to medical appointments in the San Antonio, Austin and DFW areas. This year, Hall Buick GMC, along with East Texas Cruzers and TWWF are providing a 0,000 contribution for the purchase of e uipment to the Christian estoration Community esidential Care Program Center (C C) founded by Debra Christian in East Texas. This provides veteran students enrolled in the C C’s apprenticeship program training in the horticulture industry. They will receive classroom instruction as well as on-the-job training to e uip them for career and employment opportunities.

Sarah, Gerry and Monte Hall generations of military service

Thank you for all the massages given to the Warriors over the years!

Mira Vista Country Club

Mira Vista Country Club was the proud host of the 1st Wounded Warrior Pro-Am golf event in Fort Worth on Monday, May 3, 2021. It was the Texas Wounded Warriors opportunity to bring 20 Wounded Warriors that included, triple amputee, SGT Bryan Anderson who was wounded in Iraq. Maj. Gen. David Garza, USMC, ret. addressed the warriors and guests that morning prior to the Pro-Am. An honor guard was represented by Dais Air Force Base from Abilene, TX. Everyone had a wonderful time and the event raised $51,000 for the PGA of America’s PGA HOPE program. This year’s event will also prove to bene t all who participate.

If you love the game of golf, then I am con dent that you love the golfers and golf fans that embrace the beauty of the game. Golf has always possessed a unique ability to bring people together and positively impact their lives, however, the most profound impact I have witnessed has been the way golf brings joy & ful llment to our military community.

The game of golf can invoke considerable passion; I am continuously impressed by the way our military heroes boldly share their passion for the game, and how, in some ways, how it has saved their lives - Kudos to our heroes for taking up the game. Kudos to our Mira Vista Members that have taken the game to them along with the unparalleled support and help from the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation.

PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is the agship military program of the charitable foundation of the PGA of America. PGA HOPE introduces golf to Veterans with disabilities to enhance their physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. In an effort to support that cause, on Monday, October 31st, 2022 our Texas Wounded Warriors will come together for a full day of fellowship on the fairways!

We would like to cordially invite you to become a part of a truly special experience with our American heroes. The event is a fun- lled scramble format featuring 1 Warrior, 2 Amateurs, and 1 Professional per team.

Don’t miss this special day. The Tournament will be limited to the rst 22 teams that apply; please come experience the unique beauty of Mira Vista Country Club and support an endeavor that gives back with great purpose.

Courtney Connell, PGA Mira Vista Country Club courtneyconnell@pga.com

Texas

Warrior

First round’s on us: 817.294.6600

First round’s on us: 817.294.6600

Life is ROUGH

is ROUGH

Find your sweet spot at Mira Vista.

Find your sweet spot at Mira Vista.

A member-owned country club in Fort Worth, Texas.

A member-owned country club in Fort Worth, Texas.

MiraVistaCountryClub.com

MiraVistaCountryClub.com

on i o ro orses oe e s

The Texas Wounded Warrior Pro-Am at Escondido Golf Lake Club was initiated by Bob Goetz along with Buck and Tina Mayers in 0 . Bob visited with some of his golfing buddies and they decided to bring the Wounded Warriors to Horseshoe Bay and give them an opportunity to play on one of the premier golf courses in the state of Texas. Buck and Tina picked up the reins and ran with it in a big way.

Buck, head golf instructor at Escondido and his wife, Tina, head golf professional at one of the Horseshoe Bay courses have been instrumental in securing sponsorships and teams that continue to make this event so successful. Their efforts are untiring and we are most grateful for all they have done for the Warriors. Every detail of their event is first class Honor Guard of Colors Ceremony high ranking military attending who encourage warriors on and off the course a great day of golf on a beautiful golf course, and an after event dinner. The event has raised over 600,000 over the years and is a very popular event in the Hill Country. Thank you Buck Tina and the entire Escondido Community

My military service in the Navy ( 95 -’5 ) is a far cry from the other stories in this program. As an aviation ordinance tech, I used none of my training and the only ship I ever boarded was the ferry from North Island Naval Air Station to San Diego for liberties and a good time.

I replaced Tour Professional Gene Littler on the base driving range and along with Tour Professional Billy Casper and three other future PGA golf professionals, we taught golf and played matches against west coast colleges and other military base teams.

To add to this charmed life, I had the good fortune to be raised under an excellent structure of authority from parents, teachers and society protocol. This adult population had gone through the Great Depression of the 0’s followed by World War II. Society structure was a comfort zone of stability built around our .S. Constitution of freedom, privacy, property and challenge to excel. Survival depends upon the character and initiative of the citizens, not government welfare. History strongly teaches that freedom is never free. ou fight and die to gain it and often fight more vigorously to defend and keep it. It was a great generation to be guided and protected by.

The bottom line for me is knowing that I am a Christian through faith alone in Christ alone (Acts 6 and John 6) and have a personal sense of destiny as a member of God’s oyal Family. That future is secure, and I am on the winning side.

Thank you, warriors, for your nobility and patriotism in defense of our country. We salute with gratitude our warriors of today and the past for their noble sacrifices.

A little more information about Bob, Honorary Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation Board Member - in his own words

Buck and Tina

Bob Goetz

Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation

Fazio,

2020

Escape to the Enchanting Texas Hill Country

Escondido Golf and Lake Club is an exclusive private golf and lakeside community where you can escape and enjoy the best of Fazio golf, water sports on the beautiful, constant-level Lake LBJ, as well as a luxury home community.

Awarded the #1 private course in Texas by AvidGolfer Magazine and among the top 10 best courses in Texas by The Dallas Morning News, Escondido offers a no tee time culture and an exceptional course that golfers of varying skill levels can enjoy year round.

Escondido delivers the enchantment of a picturesque hamlet of luxury estate, villa and casita homes – many offering direct access to Lake LBJ or stunning water views. Equity membership conveys with property ownership.

Escondido Golf & Lake Club is proud to host the 9th annual Texas Wounded Warrior Golf Tournament on Monday, November 8, 2021. The goal of the event is to raise money to support Texas veterans and make a huge difference in the lives of the brave men and women who have paid a high price for the security and freedom we enjoy.

The East Texas Cruzers

The East Texas Cruzers, a local organization of vintage car enthusiasts hold annual car and truck shows in Chandler, Texas, with efforts to raise funds for the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation. Nearly 30% of those who enter their refurbished cars and trucks for competition are veterans. The public is always invited to attend each year to enjoy seeing an average of 200 entries and to visit with owners. Entries are judged and awarded in several classes.

A DREAM COME TRUE HISTORY OF THE EAST TEXAS CRUZERS

The idea of having a car show was often talked about by longtime co-workers and friends – Kenny Conner, Gene Roberson, Charles Oldham, and Larry Rains. In April 2013, these four guys met at Kenny Conner’s house to start the planning of a car show. This is when they added their 5th and rst female member, Bonnie Gray, Kenny’s daughter.

A decision was made at that time, to call the show The Pleasant Retreat Car Show, with the members referred to as The Pleasant Retreat Car Show Committee. Several things were discussed that day, and they knew they had to move fast if they wanted to have a car show that year. So, the sense of urgency was on. The dream of having a car show became a reality. They held their rst show on September 21, 2013. It was a success, so they wanted to continue these shows annually. Soon after this, another member came on board, David Ray.

They wanted the proceeds from their show to bene t an organization, and this is when the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation was recommended by Randa Conner, Kenny’s wife. The hard work was on, again. They successfully held their second show, and were able to donate $2,900 to the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation. At this point, they all agreed to continue having car shows for as long as possible.

Their club is now called The East Texas Cruzers and consists of ve members: Kenny Conner –President, Larry Rains – Vice President, Gene Roberson – Treasurer, Charles Oldham – Assistant Treasurer, Larry Stevenson – Sargent-At-Arms.

Through it all, they learned that by working hard together, dreams can come true -- even a dream of having a car show! To date, the East Texas Cruzers have raised close to $100,000.

ERIN MANSFIELD emansfield@tylerpaper.com

The Christian Quilt Guild

When Sam, an elderly Viet Nam veteran became ill, he was gifted a quilt in the colors of the ag of our United States of America. He was stunned. He did not know he would be presented with a quilt, nor did he know he would react so deeply to the gift. He choked up. His eyes lled with tears. It took him a few minutes to regain his voice. With tears streaming down his face, he shared brie y the dif culties following his service and his dif cult transition back into civilian life. Then, with a deep breath, he squared his shoulders and told us how this quilt made him feel loved and was like a healing balm on those hidden scars.

As we lovingly plan quilts, cut fabric, and stitch each piece to the next, we pray for our recipients -- for divine protection over our warriors physically, mentally, and spiritually; that they and their families are covered with safety, guidance and the peace of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Additionally, we hope that the quilt will provide warmth, healing, security, and the feeling of a big hug. We don’t know who will receive our quilts, but we honor and appreciate them. We aim to spread the love of Christ to those we treasure.

The Christian Quilt Guild was founded in 2017 by Jerriann Massey and Neta Brown. The organization became a 501(c)(3) in 2020. The guild has fty volunteer members. Both women and men participate, and we have made and given more than 500 quilts to children, veterans, women, and the elderly to several organizations.

Photos are of Warriors receiving quilts at the 2021 Texas Wounded Warrior Pro-Am weekend.

Texas

INVESTING IN WARRIORS

The North Texas Warrior Golf Association is a federally-recognized, 501 (c)(3) public charity incorporated in the state of Texas. Our mission is to provide rehabilitative golfing experiences for injured service members residing in North Texas or recovering from their injuries in one of our area's VA facilities.

The heart of our program is the North Texas Warrior Golf Clinic -an adap tive golf clinic hosted at Bridlewood Golf Course. The eight-week clinic serves as a rehabilitative experience for our nation's wounded heroes.

Warrior participants who meet attendance requirements will receive a custom-fit set of golf clubs upon clinic completion. Clinic sessions are held on Sunday afternoons in the spring of each year.

For questions about other aspects of our program please contact the NTWGA Selection Committee via email at ntwgaselectioncommittee@gmail.com

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A Veteran’s Wife

I wanted to take a moment to share some of my experiences and to express my gratitude in how the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation (TWWF) has supported me, as a veteran’s wife, and as a mother. It is my hope and prayer that other wives of warriors will be able to experience the different events you offer for many years to come. Being the caregiver wife of a disabled veteran is a lot of work-mentally, physically and emotionally. On any given day I may need to physically assist my husband with everyday tasks or emotionally support pushing through trauma induced anxiety. Some days I am the driver to appointments, the partner in a therapy session, the advocate for seeking more care, or even the vacation planner sorting out what triggers we may need to avoid or prepare for. I am a mom to four children, three of who come from trauma prior to our adoption of them. So, in addition to my work caring for and preparing for my husband, I have others in our family with their own trauma triggers and sensory needs. I mentally prepare for the expected and unexpected trauma triggers , so that my family can enjoy our experiences to the best of each person’s ability.

My husband signed us up for a couple’s weekend in Tyler with TWWF. The level of anxiety I had about leaving our children home with a sitter, along with the anxiety I had in spending a weekend at a hotel away from home in a new place with my husband was very high. ou see, while hotels are typically fun and relaxing, to a veteran who has experienced trauma the new unfamiliarity and change in routine can be overwhelming and triggering. The triggering of anxiety, or PTSD, is literally debilitating physically and mentally to a person. However, my husband had just finished a golf clinic with NTWGA and he was excited to go and visit with possibly a few new friends from the clinic he hadn’t seen in a while. This excitement to do something new’ was encouraging and out of the norm.

We immediately realized that we had been blessed to visit Tyler during the TWWF weekend. It was literally the most relaxing and rewarding time I had experienced as the wife of a veteran. The little things that I normally worry about were already taken care of-from snacks to making a schedule. They even had a dedicated room for the veterans to hang out with one another away from strangers-full of delicious donated baked goods. When we arrived, we were greeted in a friendly familiar like setting-this is extremely important to those with PTSD. The veterans enjoyed a weekend of golfing and spending time with one another. We all enjoyed dinners, wonderful speakers and playing together. It’s the wives though who I think get the most precious gift of all-the gift of time with other veteran wives. Women who understand the common level of exhaustion, the uni ue humor of veteran husbands and the value of calm moments all come together to lift one another up and be in fellowship. We laughed so much in Tyler We enjoyed amazing meals, spa time and a chance to do something completely new to us. We had opportunities to go to escape rooms, bowling, tours and

Kristen Shelton Warrior wife of Bradley Shelton, SMC Veteran

shopping! My best memory was our deciding we were doing the ropes course at the bowling alley - haha. You see, usually in a bowling alley/ arcade lled with loud noises and crowds, we are the ones trying to keep the anxiety low for our veterans and wrangling kids left and right. Not this time! This time we enjoyed all the activities that normally we don’t; we screamed, laughed and bonded high up in the air on ropes. All of the wives agreed that our husbands were happier, calmer and excited to know how well the wives were taken care of in Tyler.

A year or two after our rst Tyler weekend, we were invited to a family retreat in New Braunfels, TX. I again, had anxiety thinking of taking our children who have their own mental health needs to a new place away from home. I however knew that if TWWF was in charge then the normal triggers like loud chaos, lack of routine, and access to food would not exist. I trusted that like for my veteran and me, they would love and take care of our children in all the little ways that most don’t even consider. We have returned several times to the TWWF family retreats since our rst trip. Our kids know they will have snacks in the room waiting, new shirts, and amazing fellowship classes with friends and of course BINGO! It is because of these TWWF family retreats that I learned something very special about the children of wounded warriors…they are bonded for life just upon meeting each other. They have this unspoken, special thing, that happens which allows them to instantly understand one another without questions or reservations. They aren’t different from one another at these retreats, they all have a parent (or two) who fought for their country and will forever be healing from it. It’s very magical to watch them run to each other each year as soon as we arrive. To spend a weekend giggling and being free from judgement for what their veteran parent may look or act like is a gift we can only give our children in this setting-it’s priceless.

Because of the TWWF events which include wives and children, we’ve made friends for life. Our children know they have friends who understand the struggles that veterans persevere through and the effort it takes an entire family to make sure everyone is okay on the inside. The ‘wives’ have a text chain, and we try to get together every now and then. I had a wonderful night making Christmas crafts in 2021 with the women I met in Tyler in 2018. I never would have known them without TWWF-because typically wounded warriors don’t seek out new friends and experiences. The wives try to recreate that fun carefree time for our children as well by meeting up for the zoo or lunch-it’s still never quite the same though without TWWF hosting and looking out for us.

Without the TWWF hosted experiences for wounded warriors, their wives, and their children, I believe that the healing from trauma and persevering through physical pain and setbacks would not be able to occur for the entire family unit. You see it isn’t just the veteran who suffers, the entire support system struggles during healing. I didn’t realize how important a weekend to tend to my needs with women who have the same needs was to my health until the TWWF Tyler trip. I didn’t realize how different my children felt around other children, until those other children were also the children of wounded warriors on a path to healing. I cannot thank the TWWF enough for helping my entire family on our journey. This is such a unique and special foundation and so much good is being spread because of it. Our family is stronger because of TWWF and their wonderful team of volunteers.

In Loving Memory

Elizabeth “Bitsy” Ann Wright, an appreciated sponsor and donor of the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation, is remembered as an avid volunteer and supporter in East Texas. She moved to Tyler in the 1980s, earned a BA degree in Sociology from The University of Texas at Tyler; served on the UT Tyler Alumni Council and The College of Arts and Sciences Development Council; and leaves behind legacy gifts to bene t numerous organizations in East Texas. “Bitsy” left for heaven on June 16, 2022 after 76 years on earth. Thank you, Bitsy for your gracious giving spirit. “For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, Jesus, that whoever believes in Him will not cease to exist, but have eternal life.” John 3:16.

Herd

A journey to serve and give back

A journey to serve and give back to others began when I was introduced to the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation at one of their phenomenal Pro-Am events. It was through this experience that I experienced rsthand what it meant to give back to our veteran community. Dick and Gail Goetz, and the entire leadership team made every veteran feel like the heroes they are. I learned that every veteran should be able to experience what I did that day. Soon after I was nding myself more involved in the North Texas Warrior Golf Association (NTWGA) as an ambassador and learning how to care for the members from our President, Jason Leap. While hosting an outing for the NTWGA members I realized my love of competition and camaraderie could be impactful on veteran’s lives. This began my search, and what led me to the Veteran Golfers Association (VGA).

After learning about the organization, I immediately signed up for an event and began my preparation in hopes not to embarrass myself. It reminded me of the training and extensive preparation we would conduct in the military prior to our deployments, something I knew well. Fast-forward ten events, I realized I had more work to do. Let’s just leave it at that.

During the season I met some of the most incredible veterans from all eras, genders, and walks of life. However, it was one member’s story that really put the Veteran Golfers Association’s mission of camaraderie into perspective. He shared with me, prior to nding the VGA he was afraid to be outside, afraid of not being part of society, and afraid to not be accepted. He stayed in the safety of his home for two years and never ventured out. He explained how being around other veterans that shared his experiences and could understand his invisible wounds was the secret formula he needed to begin his healing process. Today, this gentleman is one of our most active members, ies his American and Army ags on his golf cart and travels the country with his best friend who he met at one of our events. His story motivated me to want to bring that experience to all veterans, and I immediately reached out to the Texas State Director, Robert Powell, to see how I could get involved and volunteer in the organization.

Ray Grif ss, VGA Texas State Director

Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation

After being hired as an Assistant State Director and now as State Director, I quickly began to think of ways to enrich the lives of veterans. Hearing all the stories from members and what drew them to the VGA, it was an easy choice, host more events. These events are the glue that keep them alive and thriving. They are the mechanism in forming lifelong friendships. I realized it was no coincidence that I was shown the blueprint by attending the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation retreats and Pro-Am. The heartfelt and moving speeches given by Matthew Cohen and Dick Goetz at these events proved that true sel ess service to our veterans is what made them feel at home and loved.

VGA Texas hosted over 40 events in the 2022 season. With an overwhelming response, we decided to bring more events closer to home. Our 2023 season will feature over 60 events spread throughout Texas in cities like El Paso, Amarillo, Midland/Odessa, Lubbock, San Angelo, Dallas, Fort Worth, Tyler, Austin, Houston, San Antonio, Corpus Christi, and many more. We will now be able to impact even more veterans’ lives in positive ways.

The Veteran Golfers Association is a 501(c)(3) competitive golf league for active duty, veterans, and their immediate and extended family members centered around camaraderie. A team of 11 volunteer directors helps to host all our events in Texas. Our sponsorship contributions go directly to enhancing member experiences through social events, giveaways, on-course contests, and much more.

Our goal is to enrich the lives of veterans by providing playing opportunities at various clubs throughout the country they normally would not have a chance to play on and introduce them to new clubs that they will become ongoing patrons of after playing an event there.

We have divisions to include female, veteran, wounded, senior, and family with indexes that range from plus to 36.

We also offer State, Regional, and National Championships. Some of the prior National Championship venues have included Pinehurst #2, The Olympic Club, The Greenbrier, Baltusrol, Plain eld Country Club, and Trump Doral (Blue Monster) to name a few. Our past State Championship venues have included the University of Texas Golf Club, Summit Rock at Horseshoe Bay, and The Golf Club of Houston. Local event sites include many of the top courses to play in Texas and in the country!

The 2022 Texas State Championship was held at the prestigious Cascades Golf & Country Club and hosted over 120 of the top players in the VGA. I couldn’t have found a better venue with more meaning to invite our distinguished guests and members of the club, Dick and Gail Goetz. This was the site of my rst Pro-Am I attended with the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation and a place that will always be dear to me.

Bureau of Special Operations Nassau County, NY Honors the Commitment and Service of Our Warriors

0 is the st anniversary of 9 , and we must Never Forget our First esponders who gave all they could during and after that day for America. etired Police Officer Louis Lanzillotta attended the second annual Texas Wounded Warrior event in 009, while visiting his cousin, Lieutenant Commander and member of the T WWF Board of Directors, on Nash. Louis was moved by the incredible impact that the event had on the warriors, the community and himself, and returned home profoundly inspired. Since then, Louis has ardently supported the cause, bringing donations from New ork to Texas each year since. When he shared his experience with his team, the Bureau of Special Operations, in Nassau County, New ork, they, along with the Nassau County Police Benevolent Association, wanted to show their sincerest support from the East

Police Benevolent Association

Nassau County, NY Thanks to the Warrior and their Families for their service and sacrifice.

Coast. Nassau County’s BSO and PBA are proud to join forces with the T WWF initiatives to support those who have sel essly fought for our country and freedom. BSO is responsible for selective enforcement of crime patterns, planning and initiating high-risk search warrant and tactical entries, as well as the deployment of the Precision Firearms Team in coordination with the Crisis Negotiation Team. In addition, BSO is also responsible for the day-to-day operations of the AntiGang Strike Force throughout Nassau County. The Nassau County PBA is a union which represents all of the county’s police officers. Its mission is to preserve the health, safety and welfare of its members, while also proactively working to provide the citizens of Nassau County with the most esteemed and professional police services possible.

bushnellgolf.com

Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation

vets working WITH VETS

As a PGA Golf Professional, and a Veteran myself, when I saw that the PGA had implemented a new initiative geared towards working with Vets, it peaked my interest. I had heard of the Folds of Honor and the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation before. In fact, I had been paired a few times in Northern Texas PGA Section Tournaments with Dick Goetz, the Chairman of the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation (yes, he always seemed to beat me, but in return, I got some good lessons from him without having to pay for them). We had talked about his Foundation and the many great things they did for Veterans throughout the state of Texas, and he offered me a chance to play in the Foundation’s yearly Pro-Am in Tyler and I jumped at the chance. I met so many good people and Wounded Warriors that participated in the tournament, and the full weekend of family activities that go on for the Vet and their families that first year, that I am happy to say I have done so for the past nine years. The Wounded Warriors that you meet at this event, and the other activities the Foundation sponsors over the course of the year, never cease to impress. I walk away with a sense of gratitude for what these men and women have done for this country, the price they have paid, and continue to pay, and the way they conduct themselves. I remember being paired with a Vet in one of the early years that was from the Center for the Intrepid, the hospital at BAMC in San Antonio for those with extreme injuries. His permanent and life-long injuries and impairment made such an impression, but his can-do positive attitude and effort made you want to smile and cry at the same time. I have, sad to say, forgotten his name, but I hope I never forget the experience of playing with him and what I gained from doing so.

When the PGA of America decided they wanted to try and implement a program for the Vets, they founded the PGA HOPE Program, with the mission statement of introducing Golf to Veterans with disabilities in order to enhance their physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. I live in Temple, Texas and we have a large family of Vets in the Killeen, Ft. Hood, Temple area and I thought a Central Texas chapter of the PGA HOPE ( in addition to the other 5-6 chapters in Northern Texas), would be well received. It has. With the assistance and support of the NTPGA, we have hosted many 6 week introductory clinics and have had over 90 men and women Vets participate since. It seems everyone that goes through the program refers another Vet friend and we have a waiting

Joel Williamson, PGA, LM Northern Texas Section

list that grows all the time. The local course (Stonetree Golf Course in Killeen) has been very welcoming and we are appreciative of their help. Also, the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation has helped out and provided gift cards to the course to cover future range balls for the Vets.

Although it is an introductory course, we also have Vets that have played for many years. Golf provides a great venue for building friendships with Vets, meeting others, enjoying a common interest, and sharing a bond among those with similar interests, and all the while getting some good, outdoor physical activity and exercise. I like to think that since I too, am a Veteran that our shared experiences and common knowledge, helps to break the ice and open some doors.

I have to say, that working with the Vets, has probably given me as much, or more, than what we do for them. I have met quality people that seem always grateful and appreciative for the little we do for them. The Vets share common backgrounds, but they are all different, with different circumstances. Some of their disabilities are obvious and extreme, while some cannot be seen. The word admiration is the one that keeps coming back to me when I am around these people, and when we remember that the Vets make up about 1 % of our population, you realize that they are even more special. If any other PGA Professionals want to gain a sense of reward and satisfaction, I encourage you to volunteer, or work with some of our Veterans. You will get as much out of it as they do, maybe more.

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WoundedTEXASWarrior

Board of Directors

The mission of the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation is to raise awareness, to honor, and to empower our Wounded United States Military Warriors who live in Texas and surrounding states, enabling them to assimilate back to daily life upon their return from combat.

Our focus is to support programs and services such as the Warrior and Family Support Center in San Antonio at BAMC. Additionally, huge gaps commonly exist before VA bene ts begin for Wounded Warriors who return from Iraq or

Afghanistan following combat injuries. The Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation assists wounded veterans and ensures that they and their families receive private sector support to help ll this gap. We also work closely with other agencies to provide needed services such as handicap upgrades to housing, transportation to and from medical appointments, and other needs. We support our Warriors by hosting Golf Events, Golf Schools, Weekend Retreats, Hunting, Fishing, & Comradery. More information is available at txwoundedwarrior.com

Dick Goetz

Steve Braley

Bob Burnett

Matt Cohen Kerrie Covert

Buck Mayers

Ron Nash Scot Pike

Krista Rosebury

Toni Davis Chris Hudson

Jack Goetz Rob Shields

Joel Williamson Bob Goetz Honorary Larue Decker