Honorary Colonel Tom Hedican recalls a conversation he had with a soldier who had been suffering from PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). The military man had been given a kayak to use by Soldier On and he told Hedican frankly that it had changed his life.
Hedican says this interaction and an “aha” moment while watching the PGA led to the Soldier On program borrowing the idea from Patriot Golf, an American version also benefitting soldiers and veterans.
Golfers are encouraged to donate over the Labour Day weekend, whether $1 per round or any amount that they wish into the donation buckets located at area courses. The North Bay Golf & Country Club, Osprey Links, Highview, and Pinewood Park clubs are all on board with the initiative.
Soldier On has helped more than 2,200 ill and injured military members to obtain sporting or recreational equipment. The program is designed to inspire and challenge its participants.
North Bay area courses have raised over $50,000 since the program began four years ago.
