By Fred Altvater
Every year over the Labor Day weekend thousands of golfers participate in outings, tournaments, or simply make a donation to Folds of Honor at their local courses. The millions of dollars donated are used to fund educational grants to the children and the families of fallen, or injured military veterans.
Patriot’s Day is supported by The PGA of America, as well as, the USGA. It raises over $6 million every year, plus over the past several years, Patriot Day has raised over $22 million. 
Although Patriot’s Day is a huge benefit for Folds of Honor the charitable organization also holds concerts, golf outings and other activities throughout the year to raise the necessary money to support thousands of veteran’s families.
Jack Nicklaus, a long-time supporter of the Folds of Honor, has donated his time and efforts to expand the American Lake Veterans Golf Course near Tacoma, Washington, to 18 holes, because the existing nine holes could not accommodate the demand from veterans and their families. American Lake Veterans Golf Course was the only existing course designed specifically for wounded and disabled veterans.
“I am passionate and committed to any initiative that allows us to recognize, assist and support the men and women of our military, who have sacrificed so much for our freedom,” Nicklaus said. “When we can use the game of golf as the vehicle to give back, it becomes even more meaningful to me.”
Patriot Golf Day has helped Folds of Honor award more than 16,000 scholarships since it was founded by Major Dan Rooney in 2007 following his second of three tours of duty in Iraq.
Nicklaus’ most recent collaboration with Rooney and the Folds of Honor will involve a renovation of the Grand Haven Golf Club in Michigan, to become the American Dunes Golf Club. American Dunes will be a tribute to the men and women of our military, as well as a safe haven for veterans, who can find rehabilitation through recreation and the game.
Major Dan Rooney and Major Ed Pulido, himself a wounded warrior, take this mission, to help KIA and disabled military veteran’s families, very seriously and work tirelessly to garner every dollar possible to help in this fight.
When you head to the golf course to play a few holes this Labor Day, add a donation, in addition to the cost of your green fees to help them assist even more deserving American Patriot’s families.
You can also make a donation at: https://www.foldsofhonor.org/about-us/
