Golf courses around the country will be offering a simple way to support veterans and their families September 3-6 this year. The event is titled Patriot Golf Day and will help provide scholarships to the families of military personnel.
On Labor Day weekend, golf courses participating in the event will add $1 to their greens fees. The money that is raised will go to the families of deceased or disabled military members.
Major Dan Rooney started the event in 2007. As a veteran himself, Rooney felt that golf helped heal his emotional war wounds while also serving as exercise. The therapy that Rooney found in golf inspired him to help other veterans. In its inaugural year more than 3,200 golf courses participated and raised over $1.1 million. Now in its 4th year, the event has raised more than $5.3 million.
For many veterans, pain is all too common. Soldiers return home with both emotional and physical illnesses. One such illness that affects veterans is mesothelioma disease. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the body’s internal organs after asbestos exposure. While mesothelioma navy cases are most common, veterans from other branches of the armed forces also suffer from the cancer.
Unfortunately there is no cure for mesothelioma and many victims die within 18 months of diagnosis. Events like Patriot Golf Day serve as a way to help those left behind from tragic diseases like mesothelioma.
Veterans deserve to be honored and assisted after the devotion they show to our country. Patriot Golf Day gives Americans a chance to thank veterans while enjoying a classic round of golf.
