From staff reports
Once again, Dataw Island members and supporters presented an amazing week-long celebration of service to benefit wounded veterans. Together, the events last month raised more than $75,000 to benefit Tee It Up for the Troops and local veterans organizations.
“Every year our members come together in support of veterans, and every year they outdo themselves,” General Manager Ted Bartlett said in a news release. “And staff steps up as well – the one man golf marathon is truly impressive and is truly commendable. The sacrifices made to present all these events and the fundraising efforts are simply phenomenal.”
The week began with the “Flag Brigade” in which volunteers lined the streets with 3,500 American flags, followed by a “Big Break” superintendent’s revenge-style golf tournament. The day culminated in a happy hour like none other – guest bartenders volunteer and raise money as attendees “Tip It Up for the Troops” at the Dataw Island Pub.
Monday featured the famous “Golf Marathon” with Director of Golf Chris Fearn playing an astounding 256 holes of golf – solo – in one day. Beginning well before dawn and playing until sunset, Fearn scored 65 birdies and four eagles, with numerous members and veterans serving as volunteers and lining the course to cheer him on. Monday also featured the “Adaptive Golf Scramble” for local and visiting veterans.
Although 256 holes of golf in one day takes a serious toll on the body, Chris makes this sacrifice to support those who have suffered lasting pains.
“These men and women sacrifice so much for this country, and they deserve our full support,” Fearn said. “Whether that is donating to a good cause or just simply being there for a veteran and telling them ‘Thank you’ for their service and sacrifice.”
Tuesday began with the “Veterans March and Pomp & Circumstance Ceremony,” where veterans of all ages and their supporters gathered for an interactive flag ceremony, complete with musical performances by the Dataw Singers, the pledge, the presentation of the SC Governor’s Proclamation declaring Dataw Island Tee It Up For The Troops Day, and presentation of the colors. New this year was also a “Helicopter Ball Drop.”
Afterward, a full field of golfers – including 75 guest veterans – enjoyed the Veterans Golf Classic & Cookout on both the Cotton Dike course and the Arthur Hills Morgan River course.
Also new this year, Wednesday evening the Lowcountry Symphony presented a magical “Salute to Service” concert.
Events wrapped on Thursday with perhaps one of the most special events as Dataw Island Veterans were honored at the “Veterans Breakfast.” The annual breakfast welcomed Chris Bowers of Leashes of Valor as our guest speaker, who was also honored with the presentation of a handmade quilt made by the Dataw Quilters.
Also honored with a quilt and as Leashes of Valor Veteran of the Year was our own Col. Glenn Blackburn, who for many years led the charge on Veterans Week and to which its tremendous success can be attributed.
