PGA TOUR Charities, Inc. Birdies for the Brave, TPC San Antonio & Valero Texas Open Host Barbecue For Military Families At Brooke Army Medical Center

            More than 400 wounded soldiers and their families stopped by the Warrior and Family Support Center at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, TX for a barbecue and putting clinic on Tuesday, May 11, during tournament week of the PGA TOUR’s Valero Texas Open.  Part of Birdies for the Brave, the TOUR’s primary military outreach initiative, the event was designed to show appreciation for the many sacrifices made by U.S. troops and their families in service to our country.

            An outpouring of support from corporate partners included lunch by Rudy’s BBQ; dessert by Blue Bell ice cream; and golf equipment for the Center from TaylorMade.

            Following lunch, a Dedication Ceremony was held in which the Valero Texas Open presented the Warrior and Family Support Center with a new putting green to aid in the rehabilitation of wounded warriors.  The dedication included a ceremonial first putt by PGA TOUR players John Daly, Frank Lickliter II, Ted Purdy, Jason Gore; Tony Piazzi, president and CEO of Golf San Antonio; and Craig Smith, Tournament Director for the Valero Texas Open; and Judith Markelz, Program Manager of the Warrior and Family Support Center.   Following the ceremony, country music recording artist, Derek Sholl, performed for the crowd.  The event concluded with a special putting clinic for members of the military hosted by all of the attending PGA TOUR players.

            “The PGA TOUR is privileged to honor the courageous members of our Armed Forces, who put their lives on the line every day to ensure Americans enjoy a level of freedom and quality of life unmatched around the world,” said former Navy SEAL Stephen Kupcha, who serves as the TOUR’s Manager of Public Relations/Military & Community Outreach.  “We also salute all of our military families and caregivers, who play a critical role in the emotional, physical and spiritual recovery of our wounded warriors.”

            The barbecue was just one of the Valero Texas Open’s many military-focused activities conducted throughout tournament week.  The tournament extended complimentary access for active duty, retired and reserve members of the military and a guest.  Once at the tournament, military guests were treated to complimentary food and beverages in their military hospitality chalet.  Other activities included a Military Appreciation Day Celebration.

            For more information on Birdies for the Brave, visit www.birdiesforthebrave.com.