Anyone with the slimmest knowledge of military matters knows the Navy SEALs comprise some of the toughest, strongest and most well-trained soldiers in the world. They perform special operations with a high level of risk, making them indispensable to American security. That fact isn't lost on Kenmark Golf Management honcho Mark Kendall, who this year decided to put one his company's greatest golf venues — Half Moon Bay Golf Links and Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, located along a scenic stretch of California coast a half hour south of San Francisco — to great work this fall.
Under Kendall's leadership, The Naval Special Warfare Foundation and Half Moon Bay raised over $500,000 for the families of U.S. Navy SEALs and their support personnel at the inaugural “SEAL Tribute Celebration and Golf Tournament” on Oct. 4.
Featured guests included Medal of Honor recipient Lieutenant (SEAL) Michael E. Thornton (ret.), Vice Admiral (SEAL) Albert M. Calland, III (ret.), and Rear Admiral (SEAL) Thomas R. Richards (ret.). The exclusive golf tournament took place on Half Moon Bay Golf Links’ Ocean and Old Courses, with sponsors playing and interacting with members of the SEAL community.
The day concluded with over 200 participants attending a Gala Dinner in the ballroom at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay, with addresses by Lieutenant Thornton, Admiral Richards, and Ms. Krissy Rankin, whose fiancé was a Navy SEAL and died in the line of duty.
“We did not have the support of a foundation helping us back in my day,” says Lieutenant Thornton. “The Navy SEALs are making great sacrifices to protect our freedom and our country. As Americans, we need to provide the same for their families and the Naval Special Warfare Foundation offers this assistance.”
“It was invigorating and inspiring to watch Americans rally on behalf of the Naval Special Warfare Foundation, the SEALs and their loved ones,” added Kendall. “Despite the economy and downturn in large events and outings, golf is still a unifying game that brings people together over a shared cause.”
“Half Moon Bay Golf Links has been an incredible partner," says Kristi Cummings, director, Naval Special Warfare Foundation. "They understand the many sacrifices made not only by these amazing warriors, but by their families as well, and they have certainly created a wonderful venue for people to come out to show their appreciation.”
No doubt about that. Set against the dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Half Moon Bay Golf Links features thirty-six holes of championship golf; a clubhouse with a full-service pro shop offering the latest equipment and fashionable apparel; and the popular ocean-view restaurant, Mullins Bar & Grill, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in a casual fireside dining setting. Right next door, the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay is one of the finest hotels on the California coast, with five-star accommodations, incredible restaurants and great views of both golf courses.
Opening ceremonies for the SEALs fundraising event began Monday with the U.S. Navy color guard and a Half Moon Bay High School trio singing the national anthem. A brief presentation followed with the retirement of an American flag recently flown in Afghanistan by a U.S. Navy SEAL team.
The SEAL – Naval Special Warfare Foundation was founded in 2000, and while they were not established because of the war, their mission in serving the U.S. Navy SEALs and their families has been made more important and more difficult as a result of it. As the frequent deployments continue and the injuries mount, the programs and services of the SEAL – Naval Special Warfare Foundation are more critical than ever. The Foundation provides support for the U.S. Navy SEALs, the Special Warfare Combatant-craft Crewmen, and families of Naval Special Warfare through Health and Welfare programs, Education and Motivation and History and Heritage.
Next year’s event will be held on September 30 and October 1.
0 comments:
Post a Comment