WTOC, Savannah, Georgia, news, weather and sports | Legends Tees Off with Military Salute
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The Liberty Mutual Legends of Golf teed off in patriotic style Friday morning. To help celebrate the 30th anniversary of the event, this year was about honoring the men and women of the armed forces.
Capt. Michael Wills of the 3rd Infantry Division did the honors, officially starting the tournament with the ceremonial tee-off at the first hole.
"I am absolutely honored to be asked to represent this beautiful course and the Army," Capt. Wills told WTOC. "As you can see, I have my company behind me."
The Savannah Children's Choir performed a special rendition of "America the Beautiful" as part of the opening ceremonies. Capt. Wills says the tribute is bittersweet.
"It's mixed emotions," he said. "Our men and women are overseas and we are here. We get to go home at night and be with our families, and at the same time they are there, sacrificing every day."
Liberty Mutual will be donating $100 to every birdie hit on par 3 holes to the Fort Stewart Chaplain's Fund, plus, if there is a hole-in-one, they will donate $25,000.
"I think this is the least we can do," executive director Tim Iley told WTOC. "The sacrifices they make for us, the least we can do is give back to them."
While the legends play, these soldiers know, their time to sacrifice once again is coming soon.
"We just came over and came home, and our time is going to come again," Capt. Wills said. "They are making the sacrifices so we can be here for this great occasion."
On opening day of the Legends, all military peronnel were given free passes to the event.
Reported by: Don Logana, dlogana@wtoc.com
