Phillip Inman

Phillip Richard Inman was born and raised in Tuscumbia, Alabama. I is the second child of five children. A graduate of Deshler High School in 1968 where I lettered in four sport’s, Basketball, Football, Baseball and Track. Ran the two-mile event in track and qualified to advance to State. Three-year letterman in baseball and played second base. Three-year letterman in basketball and was the point guard. Averaged over 19 yards per reception as a receiver and was selected to the Tennessee Valley Conference team as a Senior.

Was drafted into the Army in 1969 and choose to be a part of the Army Security Agency. Attended Basic Training at Fort Jackson, S.C. and received Advanced, Security and MOS (05H20, Morse Intcp) Training at Fort Devens, MA.

Stationed in Chu Li, Viet Nam (I Corp) in 1970-71 with a Radio Research Unit. Transferred to Fort Bragg with the 358^th Co 313^th ASAN BN in 1971. Sent to Fort Benning, GA to complete Airborne Training and then assigned to the 82^nd Airborne Division.

ETS from military service in 1972 as a Specialist 4^th Class. Received the National Defense Service Medal, Viet Nam Service Medal, Republic of Viet Nam Campaign Ribbon W/Device 60, Army Commendation Medal, Sharpshooter Badge with Auto Rifle Bar, Basic Airborne, Special Forces Operation.

Attended the University of North Alabama and received a BS degree in accounting in 1975. Selected to be the First Inter-Fraternity Council President for two years. Nominated to the Greek Hall of Fame at University of North Alabama in 2025.

Completed an MBA degree at Samford University in 1977. Worked in Accounting and Personal Finance for 50 years. Inducted in the Equitable/AXA Hall of Fame in New York in 2007.

Married to Marty for 44 years. She taught senior high students for 40 years. Our family totals one Son and two Daughters. Son Bradley and oldest daughter Bevin live in Atlanta, Ga area and youngest daughter Bethany lives in the Birmingham, Al area. We have 5 grandchildren, 3 girls and 2 boys with the 4^th girl to arrive in October of 2026.

I was introduced to the VGA in March of 2024 by an individual who had served in the Marine Corp for 21 years and completed two combat tours overseas.

In the 2025 VGA year I played in 136 events in 6 southern states. I met and became great friends with so many people just because I came to love them and they allowed me to be apart of their lives. I can love because I was first loved by God and I can trust and be trusted because of my continued growth with Him.

In 2025 I was asked to be the Southern Region player of the year and in October of 2025 selected as the Player of the Year for VGA. Hopefully that was not because of the 136 events I played in or that I had more points than anyone else. I pray that it was God’s light shining through me, pointing to Him.

I have spent the last several years helping over 100 Veterans apply and receive benefits that they have earned for serving our great country now celebrating 250 years!!

Michael Pues

Michael Pues joined the VGA in February 2017 in New York. Upon retiring in 2020 Michael transferred his membership to South Florida. Shortly thereafter he was recruited as Assistant Director for SE Florida and as with everything, he does Michael dove right in, executing on exciting and memorable events for all the members!

At only 17, January 1980 under the delayed entry program, Michael enlisted in the Navy.  After Bootcamp, he had several assignments including, Naval Undersea Warfare Engineering Station on board Firing Crafts. In 1982 after he advanced to Quartermaster 2^nd class he went on to navigation school in San Diego, then to QM-A school in Orlando. After graduation he went then back to a larger Firing craft home ported in Keyport, WA.

Next assignment in 1983/84 was pre-commissioning/ Commissioning of the USS Nicholas FFG 47 in Bath, ME/ Charleston, SC where Michael would spend the rest of his time on active duty.  Michael earned the Battle E award, good conduct medal, and several letters of commendation during his years of service.

Upon his return to his beloved home-town Long Beach NY, Michael took the skills honed by  his family for generations and started his own Stone and marble Setting Company, which he naturally named Veteran Stone Inc. Micheal’s business thrived for more than 30 years, with his family name and Michael’s craftsmanship evident on the interiors and exteriors throughout some of the most iconic buildings in New York and the Tri-State.

Michael is a proud husband to Dianne and Father to his Children, Brandon, Kyle, and Delaney and Grand Father to Mayla-Rue and Emma.

Golf is Michael’s passion. He will be swinging til he drops!

Benjamin Salter

Senior Master Sergeant (Retired) Benjamin Salter (Ben) is from Evergreen Alabama. Ben enlisted the
Air Force in April 1984 as a Munitions System Specialist (AMMO). His first duty assignment was Eglin
AFB, FL. From there, his other assignments was RAF Bentwaters, England, Barksdale AFB, Louisiana,
Suwon AB Korea, Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina, lncirlik AB, Turkey, Langley AFB, Virginia and
Robins AFB, Georgia.
In 2008 Ben retired from the Air Force after 24 years and joined the civilian workforce. He became a Civil
Service worker as a Foreign Military Sales Technical Management Specialist. He was assigned the
countries of Switzerland, Kuwait, Bahrain, Norway, Thailand and Chile. He got to travel to all the
countries. After another 14 and a half years Ben retired from the civil service workforce in 2022.
Ben’s military awards include Meritorious Service Medal (2 oak leaf clusters), Air Force Commendation
Medal (2 Oak leaf clusters), Air Force Achievement Medal (2 oak leaf clusters), AF Outstanding Units
award (3 clusters),AF Organizational Excellent award, AF Good Conduct Medal (7 clusters), AF
Recognition Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal (1 Service star), Southwest Asia Service Medal (3
service stars)Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, AF Overseas
Ribbon short, AF Overseas Ribbon long, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon (rifle) AF Training
Ribbon, Kuwait Liberation Medal Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait Liberation Medal Government of
Kuwait.
Ben joined the VGA in 2000 and has been playing ever since. He has played in every south region state
but Kentucky and Arkansas. His plans are to play in them soon. He has won 2 state championship,
played in the senior VGA championship, the National championship and soon the Arm Forces Cup! Ben
has been married to his wife, Vernita, for almost 40 years. They have 3 children, Jarvis (GA), Ben JR
(GA), and Brandon (GA) and two granddaughters JaVieah and JaZaria (future VGA family member).

Chad Hershman

I am a retired United States Marine with more than 21 years of service, having served both as an enlisted Marine and later as a commissioned officer in the law enforcement and corrections fields. Tours of duty at Leavenworth, Parris Island, and Al Anbar Province were some of the highlights of my career.

After retiring from the Marine Corps, I continued to serve for more than 13 years in federal employment. Eventually, I accepted early retirement to become a full-time caregiver for my mother and father. Supporting them during their later years was not only a responsibility, but the greatest honor of my life.

I’ve been golfing for over 50 years. While searching for competitive amateur opportunities, I discovered the Veteran Golf Association. Joining the VGA was an excellent decision; in just three years, I’ve traveled to 18 states and competed in more than 160 VGA events, enjoying the camaraderie and challenge the tour provides.

None of this would be possible without the love and support of my beautiful wife, Danae. Sharing these experiences with five children and five grandchildren brings me great joy, especially with two sons currently serving in the Navy and Marine Corps.

Tim Grover

Tim joined the Coast Guard at the age of 21 in 1992. His first unit was the Training Center in Cape May, NJ. The subsequent three units were all operational units conducting CG missions of Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement, AIDS to Navigation, and Ice Operations. Aboard those units, Tim served as Food Services Officer and gained numerous qualifications, including Deck Watch Officer, Boarding Officer, EMT, Coxswain, and more.
In 2008, the opportunity to apply to the Ceremonial Section Chief position at TRACEN Cape May became available. Having spent his non-rated time working in that department, he had the unique skills and abilities to successfully win the position of Ceremonial Section Chief, a position he held until his medical retirement in 2014.
After the Coast Guard and many medical challenges, Tim became the Director of Compliance and Safety for Rymes Propane & Oils, Inc., a fuel company that spanned four States. He traveled to the various offices, providing compliance inspections to propane and distillate bulk plants, inspections to Commercial HazMat Vehicles, and provided training to Site Managers and Delivery Drivers.
In 2018, Tim left Rymes and began his own excavation business. Starting as a one-man crew, he quickly built it into a complete work-site business with a dozen employees. In 2024, the business was sold and Tim fully retired.
He now spends his time with his significant other, Gina and his 9 grandchildren. He also is a Director with the Veteran Golfers Association, volunteering his time to help Veterans play in competitive golf tournaments around the world, providing camaraderie and sense of belonging that so many Veterans are missing. Summers are spent golfing in New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Massachusetts and Connecticut, while winters are spent golfing in Florida and Georgia.
Tim now resides in St. Augustine, FL and New London, NH with Gina and their cat, Dusty.

Chris Butler

Chris Butler enlisted in the United States Army in October 1978 and ended his inactive reserve status in March 1984, serving 3 years and 9 months on active duty. He served in the Military Police, both in Uniform and as a Military Police Investigator. He was attached to Third Region CID. He received the Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and the Army Achievement Medal.

After his enlistment, Butler was employed at the Clayton County Police Department, Jonesboro, GA. There he served as a Policer Officer, promoted to: Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, Major, retiring as a Deputy Chief of Police. He was a Firearms Instructor and General Instructor. He served as a Crisis Negotiator and Hostage Negotiator.

Butler joined the VGA in 2018. He served one year as an Assistant Director in GA, before becoming the State Director of GA for the last two golf seasons.

Butler lives in Fayetteville, GA, with his wife Polly. They have 3 children and 5 Grandkids.

Daniel Evans

SSG Evans served fifteen and a half years in the Alabama Army National Guard. Born in Indianapolis, IN, he relocated to Guatemala at age six, where he became fluent in Spanish—a skill that proved advantageous throughout his government and military career. At fifteen, SSG Evans attended Marion Military Institute (MMI) in Alabama, completing two years of high school and two years of junior college.

While at MMI, he participated in the “Swamp Foxes,” an elite student-led special operations preparatory organization. As a cadet, he successfully completed both Basic Airborne School and Air Assault School. Following graduation, SSG Evans earned a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in International Relations from the University of Alabama. He subsequently joined the 20th Special Forces Group (A), completing the Special Forces Assessment & Selection Course (SFAS), the NCOA Basic Noncommissioned Sergeant Course, and the Special Forces Engineer Sergeants (18C) Course in 1991 at Ft. Bragg, NC.

Upon graduating from the “Q” Course and leveraging his native Spanish proficiency, SSG Evans deployed multiple times with various Operational Detachments Alpha (ODAs) within the 1/20th SFG (A) to countries including Spain, Honduras, Costa Rica, Colombia, Panama, and Ecuador. During these overseas deployments, he earned both Spanish and Honduran Jump Wings. His military career is distinguished by receiving one Army Commendation Medal and three Army Achievement Medals.

Outside the Alabama National Guard, SSG Evans worked with the US Customs Service (USCS) and later Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) as a Special Agent (Criminal Investigator 1811). His federal service began with USCS in 1996 in San Juan, Puerto Rico, with subsequent assignments in Miami, Florida, The Caribbean Attache Office, and ultimately retiring in 2020 in Mobile, Alabama. He has since returned to federal service as a rehired annuitant and currently serves as a Special Agent in Gulfport, Mississippi.

In January 2020, SSG Evans joined the Veterans Golf Association (VGA); by August 2020, he assumed the role of Assistant State Director in Mississippi. He became the State Director in January 2021, increasing active membership in Mississippi from 27 to 128 within his first year. In 2022, SSG Evans was recognized as the South Region Director of the Year for the VGA.

SSG Evans is married to HSI Special Agent Danyelle W. Evans and has two children: Gabriel, a graduate of Ole Miss, and Katherine, currently a sophomore at Ole Miss. He resides in Ocean Springs, a coastal town in Mississippi.

Julius Rigole

Colonel (R) Julius (JR) Rigole served 32 years on active duty as an Army Aviation officer.  Qualified in the UH1, OH56A/C/D, AH64 and UH60.  Deployed during Operation Desert Storm, Bosnia, Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan.  He commanded at every level up through Brigade and retired out of the Pentagon as the Army Director of Aviation Maintenance HQDA G4.

JR now works at Lockheed Martin Government Affairs in DC and owns an X-Golf indoor stimulator franchise and sells PXG clubs on the side.  Through X-Golf he works with disabled veterans and traumatic brain injury institute for adaptive golf therapy.

He and his wife Karen reside in Fredericksburg VA and have five children and seven grandchildren.

Michael Hill

Command Sergeant Major (ret.) Michael Hill was drafted in 1970. Served as rifleman, Team Leader, Squad leader, Recon Platoon Sergeant, and First Sergeant with the 82^nd Airborne Division. As a master parachutist was a black hat with the Advanced Airborne School for at Fort Bragg, NC. Served as a Drill Sergeant and instructor at the Drill Sergeant Academy at Fort Dix, NJ.  Taught ROTC at Penn State University. And final assignment was the Command Sergeant Major of the 1^st Battalion, 501^st Airborne Infantry, Fort Richardson, AK.  Retired in 1991 with 21 & ½ years of service.

Married to wife Cheryl for 52 years. Four Children – Michele, Jeff, Krystal, Courtney, and 9 grandchildren. After retirement from the Army worked for the Idaho Department of Labor as a Senior Consultant and Supervisor for 25 years. Numerous years as the Local Veterans Employment Representative and the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program administrator.

Currently 75 years old and a lifetime member of Disabled American Veterans, Lifetime member Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Lifetime member of the American Legion.  Over 150 VGA events and enjoy spending time and golfing with Active, retired and family members.

Paul Flake

Captain (Retired) Paul Flake was born in Prairie Village, Kansas. He attended Rockhurst High School and served as the Yearbook Editor during his junior and senior years. He attended Creighton University and Rockhurst College where he served as a Teaching Assistant in Statistical Analysis and Experimental Psychology and earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration in Human Resources Management. Before entering the Army in July 1990, CPT Flake earned a Juris Doctorate from the University of Kansas School of Law.
Before his medical retirement in August 1995, CPT Flake served as a Trial Counsel at Fort Wainright, Alaska, a Special Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Alaska, and a Medical Claims Judge Advocate at Fort Lewis, Washington.
After the completion of his military service, CPT Flake worked as a Dental Benefits Advisor with United Concordia Company and a Workforce Analyst with the Sprint Corporation. He was the sole proprietor of Kaiser Wood Works, which focused on the installation of Wood-Mode custom cabinetry, wood flooring, and finish carpentry activities.
In January 2024, CPT Flake retired from the General Services Administration where he served as a warranted Contracting Officer for 22 years managing Information Technology contracts.
Besides his golf exploits, Captain Flake has held a wide variety of jobs and possesses many skills: Senior Counselor at Muscular Dystrophy Association and YMCA summer camps, published photographer and author in the Kansas City Star’s Sunday Magazine, Private Police Officer with the Kansas City Chiefs Football Club, Carpenter with Marley Continental Homes and the JC Nichols Company, and Lead Carpenter at Allied Construction Services.
CPT Flake’s love of golf started during his teenage years when served as a caddy at Indian Hills, Missions Hills, and the Kansas City Country Clubs (he once caddied for Tom Watson). After a 30+ year hiatus, CPT Flake returned to golf, having played over 150 rounds in 18 different states since joining the VGA in April 2023.
In what little non-golf time he has left, CPT Flake enjoys bowling, kayaking, hunting, shooting sports (paper targets, trap, and skeet), gardening, woodworking, and remodeling his home.

Robert Serviss

Robert Serviss is a native of Long Island, New York. He joined the United States Army straight out of high school in November 1991, proudly serving five years on active duty. During his military career, Robert achieved the rank of E‑4 (Specialist) and served as an Air Traffic Controller, a highly demanding and mission‑critical specialty.  His service included two and a half years stationed in Korea and deployments to two combat zones—Haiti and Somalia. In recognition of his service and professionalism, Robert received numerous awards and decorations.

Following his military service, Robert continued his aviation career with the Federal Aviation Administration, serving as an Air Traffic Controller at the New York TRACON for more than 20 years. He also utilized his GI Bill benefits to further his education, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology.

Robert joined the Veterans Golf Association in September 2023, and has already competed in over 125 VGA events across the country. Robert is married to his beautiful wife Kristy for 23 years, who has been a constant source of support throughout his journey and golf adventures. Together, they have two wonderful children – Robert and Samantha.

Deeply committed to giving back, Robert is passionate about counseling, mentoring, and coaching fellow veterans, always encouraging them to join the VGA and PGA Hope and helping them maximize the benefits they have earned through their service. He is incredibly proud to represent the United States Army at the 2026 Armed Forces Cup at Champions Retreat, an honor that reflects both his service and his enduring dedication to the veteran community.

Scott Bojanowski

Scott Bojanowski, SFC (Retired), United States Army, was born and raised in Corvallis, Oregon. Scott joined the Army in 1996 and began his military career as an Armored Crewman. During his first re-enlistment in 1999, Scott changed his Military Occupation Specialty to Infantryman (11B) and spent the remainder of his 20 years in the Army in Infantry leadership positions. Scott was stationed all over the world, spending time at: Fort Knox, KY, Camp Casey, South Korea, Fort Hood, TX, Fort Benning, GA, Joint Base Lewis – McChord, WA, Fort Sill, OK, Camp Red Cloud, South Korea, Fort Carson, CO, and with the Defense Coordinating Element, FEMA Region 10, Seattle, WA.

Scott completed two year-long combat deployments to Operation Iraqi Freedom III, from 2004-2005, in Mosul, Iraq, and to Operation Enduring Freedom 11-12, from 2011-2012, in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Scott earned numerous awards and achievements during his career, including the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Expert Infantryman’s Badge, the Army Commendation Medal for Valor for combat actions in Mosul, Iraq, four Meritorious Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals, four Army Achievement Medals, the Presidential Unit Citation Award, two Valorous Unit Awards, and earned the prestigious Sergeant Audie Murphy Award for U.S. Army noncommissioned officers who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professionalism, superior performance, and personal care for the needs, training, and welfare of their soldiers and families.

Scott has been a member of the Veteran Golfer’s Association since 2024, where he enjoys playing events with his wife, Janet, across the United States. In December, 2025, Scott was asked to step into the role of VGA Oregon Director. Scott and his wife Janet are golf enthusiasts, playing over 100 rounds of golf a year both with the VGA and with their family and friends. In 2025, Scott played over 140 rounds of golf, at 55 different courses, in 9 different states. Scott and his wife also enjoy travelling and spending time with their two adult sons and their families.

Scott has dedicated the last ten years working as the Director of Safety for Bend-La Pine Schools, in his hometown of Bend, Oregon. After retiring from the Army in 2016, Scott went back to graduate school and earned his Master in Public Administration degree in 2019. Scott believes deeply in the values of servant leadership and lifelong dedication to serving something greater than yourself, as evident through his 20 years in military service, 10 years and counting as a leader in public education, and his dedication to serving the members of the Veteran Golfer’s Association.

Steve Klein

SPC Steve Klein served in the United States Army from 2003 to 2006 as a 63H Tracked Vehicle Mechanic. During his service, he completed a 15-month deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005-2006.

Steve’s connection to golf began early, when his father introduced him to the game at age five by cutting down a set of garage sale irons. While his involvement with the game was sporadic over the years, golf has always been a place of comfort for Steve.

In 2019, Steve joined the Veteran Golfers Association, initially drawn by the opportunity to play great courses across the country. What he found was something far more meaningful—a community built on shared experience, camaraderie, and connection. One of his most memorable moments came with a hole-in-one at True Blue Golf Club in Pawley’s Island, South Carolina.

Following his military service, Steve continued a life dedicated to serving others. He worked as a Sheriff’s Deputy in both Kent and Ionia Counties while earning his Master of Social Work from West Virginia University. Today, he serves as a mental health therapist, supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges with a perspective shaped by both his service and professional experience.

Steve remains actively involved with VGA Michigan as a volunteer, committed to fostering the sense of camaraderie that defines the organization. For him, golf is more than a game—it is a space to reset, reconnect, and be alongside fellow veterans who understand one another without explanation.

He is a proud father of three and grandfather to one, and is supported by his wife, Alli, an accomplished VGA competitor in her own right. Together, they embody the spirit of community and connection that the VGA represents.

Tim Bell

Tim Bell has been married to his best friend for the past 28 years. He has three children and seven grandchildren. Tim enlisted in the Army on May 4, 1989, as a Combat Engineer (12B). He completed his Basic Training and AIT at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He served for six and a half years on active duty and three and a half years in the reserves.

Tim was stationed at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, and at Fort Hood, Texas. His deployments include Operation Just Cause (Panama), Operation Desert Storm/Shield (Iraq), and Operation Safe Haven/Passage (Panama). Tim joined the Veterans Golfers Association (VGA) in 2024 and currently serves as an Assistant Director for Utah. He is passionate about the organization and its mission, and he looks forward to new opportunities at the state, regional and national levels.

Alfredo Medina III

Chief Petty Officer (Retired) Alfredo Medina III, a native of Angeles City, Philippines. Migrated to Guam in 1996, he joined the United States Navy as a Seaman Recruit on April 26, 2000, at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes. After 20 years and 5 days of active service, he retired in April 2020 and now resides in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Post Military Career: After retiring in 2020, Chief Medina spent three years coaching at Lake Stevens High School in Lake Stevens, Washington. He has since settled into civilian life in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he enjoys golf and remains active in the veteran community.
Personal Life: Chief Alfredo Medina III is a proud Navy veteran, husband, father of two, and grandfather. He has been married to his wife, Lailani, for 27 years. They have two children, Lawrence and Alexandria, and a beloved granddaughter, Luanna Kai, who inspire him to create wonderful memories and live life to the fullest.

Brandon Morris

Brandon Morris was born in Toms River NJ and then moved to Gap PA where he graduated from Pequea Valley High School in 2006. He has been a member of the VGA since 2022 and has been serving as the Pennsylvania State Director for 2 years.

2008 Brandon joined the Navy as an Airman.  Brandon Commissioned the USS New York, LPD21, and was on board for 2 years. After that he went to the USS Kearsarge as an Aviation Ordnanceman and worked with other AOs for mission essential operations. Brandon served for 5 years in the Navy making rank to Petty Officer 3rd class. After active duty, Brandon did 4 years in the Navy reserve.

After his service he and his family moved back to PA to be closer to family. Brandon attended Automotive Training Center, where he received his associate degree in diesel and automotive mechanics. He is currently the Service Advisor for M H Eby in Blue Ball PA.

In 2008 Brandon married his wife, Deanna Morris, and they have 2 kids, Dylan 13 and Hailey 7. He currently resides in New Holland, PA. You can find Brandon running events in PA and traveling to other states playing VGA events and supporting the mission of the VGA. When not golfing, Brandon also volunteers with the Pennsylvania Special Olympics where he is a coach for bowling and golf. Brandon loves watching his kids shine in all that they do.

Eric Kjerulf

Born in Seattle, Washington, I have dedicated my career to federal service and am currently marking my 36th year of contributions to the United States government. My journey began with an 11-year tenure in the United States Navy (1990–2001). Serving as an Electronics Technician, ET2(SW), I completed sea duty assignments aboard the USS Implicit (MSO 455) in Tacoma, WA. During this time, while serving as a Third-Class Petty Officer, I earned my Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) pin. I was subsequently attached to the USS Crommelin (FFG 37) in Pearl Harbor, HI, where I was recognized as the Mid-Pac Junior Sailor of the Quarter for the 4^th QTR 1995.

Following my military separation as a Petty Officer Second Class, I transitioned into a civilian career focused on network and system administration within the federal government. After seven years with the Department of Defense Navy (2001–2008), I joined the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in 2008.

I currently serve in an Enterprise System Administration role. One of my proudest professional achievements was playing a pivotal role in the 2010 joint DoD/VA integration of the James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC), the nation’s first integrated federal health care center.

Community & Personal Life

Today, I reside in Hawthorn Woods, Illinois. When I am not managing enterprise systems, you will likely find me working with the VGA, which I joined in 2023. I currently serve as one of the Assistant Directors for the Illinois chapter, where I also lead our social media content creation.

Outside of my professional life, I share a home with my partner of 12 years, Kathleen. Our busy blended household includes:

• Kellen (20): A sophomore at the University of Illinois studying Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering.
• Kaeden (15): A sophomore at Lake Zurich High School.
• My Three grown sons: Sean (32), Ryan (28), and Seth (27).

James Legg

Lieutenant Commander (retired) Jim Legg served our country for 26 years – the first half as an Enlisted Cryptologic Technician and the second half as a Commissioned Officer in the Information Warfare Community. Of the countless tours during his career, his favorites were Edzell, Scotland, London, England, Pentagon, and Fort Meade, Maryland.

Since retiring from service in 2019, Jim has served in leadership roles for both small and large businesses in the defense contractor community, still supporting our nation’s warfighters in delivering the capabilities they need to remain the most powerful military around the globe. He is also on the Board of Directors for Cybervets.org.

Jim is an avid golfer, having joined the VGA in 2019, and formerly serving as a Pennsylvania Assistant Director. While health issues impeded Jim’s ability to further commit to that role, to the extent our Veterans deserve, he still finds time to get out on the courses when he can to catch up with familiar faces and new Veterans to the VGA organization – all of whom he views as his brothers and sisters.

As passionate about golf as Jim is, his favorite and most memorable times are those spent with his family. Jim is married to his best friend, Kimberly, having tied the knot 29 years ago. They share three wonderful sons (James, Tanner, Bryce – whom are all in the VGA) and an amazing daughter (Genevieve) – and have two adorable grandchildren (Ember “Beaner” and Liam “Bogey”). They all reside in Southern Pennsylvania.

Jay Seamans

Jay Seamans grew up in a small town in Maine. Joined the Navy in 1994 to see the world and help figure out what he wanted to do in life. Stationed on the USS George Washington Jaywas tasked with the safe movement of aircraft in the hangar deck and flight deck.

Jay deployed to the Mediterranean Sea 2 times for 6 months each time for the ship to help with the Bosnian war and to protect no fly zones and patrol the waters in the Persian gulf.

After serving and injuring himself in the shipyards, Jay departed the Navy as a Aviation Boatswains mate 3rd Class petty officer to pursue his schooling in Sports Medicine in South Carolina. He worked hard in school and also had a job with a landscaping company. Somehow Jay got sidetracked with school (money issues) and a degree was never achieved.

Jay ventured out on his own and working for himself after contracting Lyme disease from a tick bite. He felt with all the issues with the back injury and now issues from Lyme disease, it would be easier working on his own.

In 2018 Jay had heard about the VGA and joined to be able to play more golf. Starting meeting a lot of great veterans and making many friends. In 2019 Jay was asked if he would like the Assistant state directors job to help run the Upstate of SC. He took this position and has been putting together events for the VGA since 2018. Jay has played in 2 VGA National Championships, placing 2nd this past year at Trump Doral in Miami Florida. Jay continues to assist with running events in SC and recently received permission to help start setting up and running a few events in While in Maine in June and July. Jay has already booked to events in a state with a very small membership of only 7 VGA members, but hoping to help grow that membership while showing what the VGA is all about. Also, with the help of a few of the the other New England states Jay can make these a events a success and start bringing more events in the months and years to come.

Johnnie Walker

Johnnie Walker was born in Americus, GA. His parents migrated to Holyoke, Ma in the summer of 1955, that’s where he was raised.  He enlisted in the Navy on 8 Oct 68. His naval training began and ended at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center December 1968.  Johnnie was assigned as a Boiler Room Technician aboard the aircraft carrier Randolf CVS-15 in South Boston Naval Shipyard.  After the decommissioning, he was transferred to the aircraft carrier Yorktown CVS-10 in Norfolk Virgina.  When his two-year enlistment ended, he returned home and immediately moved to Boston where better working opportunities were available.

While working in a dead-end job, he used the GI bill to acquire his degree in Computer Science.  In 1976, Johnnie started working as a computer operator.  After years in that position, he acquired his A+ Certification and began working as a Computer Support Technician.  After working 20 years as an Instructor of Computer Systems and Microsoft Office Software, he retired on October 2012.

Jordon Daniel

Jordon Daniel is a proud  U.S. Navy veteran who served honorably from 2002 to 2006. During his time in service, he supported operations in the Middle East and throughout the Caribbean, contributing to missions focused on regional security, anti-drug efforts, and maritime operations. His service took him across the globe, shaping a deep appreciation for teamwork, adaptability, and service to others.

Jordon is honored to represent his fellow veterans at the Armed Forces Cup and is grateful for the opportunity to be part of a team built on camaraderie, respect, and shared experience. Through the game of golf, he has found a meaningful way to stay connected to the veteran community and continue the sense of purpose he carried during his time in uniform.

An active participant in the Veteran Golfers Association (VGA), Jordon enjoys being part of a community that brings veterans together through the game. For him, golf is not just about competition, it’s about connection, support, and showing up for one another.

“I feel I am at my best when serving others. I am grateful for the VGA for giving me opportunities to continue serving.”

Outside of golf, Jordon has dedicated thousands of volunteer hours to veteran service organizations, continuing his commitment to supporting those who have served. Whether on the course or in the community, he remains driven by a simple mission: to give back and be there for others.

Lowell Crow

CAPTAIN, USN (RET) Lowell Crow retired after 30+ years of service and 8 years as a City Manager in Illinois and is currently living in O’Fallon, Illinois.  He enjoys Golfing, Traveling, and is an avid reader as well as being active in Rotary and the Naval Academy Alumni Association.

CAPT Crow Retired from US Navy in 2014, He is a Surface Warfare Officer who served in a variety of assignments and Commands to include Commanding Officer USS Ogden LPD-5, Commanding Officer, USS Wasp LHD-1, and his final assignment as Command Officer of Naval Weapons Station Yorktown.  During his time in the service, he deployed in support of Desert Shield and Desert Storm, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Drug interdiction operations in Central and South America with the DEA where Wasp was the first LHD to be awarded Coast Guard Unit Commendation for Drug interdiction operations.

CAPT Crow also served on the Navy Staff in the Pentagon, at US Transportation Command, Amphibious Group One in Okinawa, Japan, on the staff for Commander Surface Forces Middle Pacific in Hawaii, Main Engines Officer USS New Jersey, and the commissioning Executive Officer on the USS Pearl Harbor.

CAPT Crow graduated with a BS in Material Management from the United States Naval Academy in 1984, The Marine Corp War College in 1994 where he received a MS in Military Arts, and a MPA from Old Dominion University in 2014.  CAPT Crow’s Military Awards include Legion of Merit X3, Defense Meritorious Service Medal X2, Meritorious Service Medal X4, Joint Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal X5, Navy Achievement Medal X4.

After Retiring from the Navy, CAPT Crow became a City Manager where he served three different communities in Illinois.  In 2019, he was selected by his peers as the City Manager of the year for the State of Illinois.  In March of 2022, he joined the VGA and is currently serving as an Assistant State Director for Illinois.  This is his second trip to the AFC having qualified in 2024.

CAPT Crow is married to his lovely wife Gwen and has two sons Chris and Michael.

Tracey Brown

Tracey Brown honorably served in the United States Navy from 1991-1994 in the first combat search and rescue helicopter squadron, HC-1.  The son of retired Navy CMC Sam W. Brown, Tracey experienced the diversity of military life all over the country and the world in his youth.  After graduating from a DoDDS high school in London, UK, Tracey relocated back to the United States in 1990 and shortly thereafter enlisted in the Navy.  After finishing first in his class in A School, Tracey was given a choice of fourteen different duty stations which he ultimately chose HC-1 located at NAS North Island in Coronado, CA.

Tracey never lost sight of his lifelong dream of a career in the music industry, so when HC-1 decomissioned in 1994 he left the Navy and began producing local San Diego rock bands in the recording studio.  In 1998, Tracey relocated to Los Angeles to work in the major studios and after a year in the entertainment industry trenches, he began a five-year stint as iconic hip-hop artist Snoop Dogg’s personal studio engineer.  Tracey left the music industry in 2004 and relocated to the Washington, DC area where he now resides.  Since moving to DC, Tracey’s professional focus took a major shift towards video production and photography.  He has had the good fortune to work with many prolific political and media personalities over the past 19 years and has won many awards for video production and cinematography.  Among the list of achievements includes a Director of Photography Gold Award from the Television, Internet and Video Association of DC in 2017 and national Telly awards for Video Production in 2018 and Cinematography in 2020.

Tracey will be celebrating 30 years of marriage to his wife Debra in July.  They have three children together; the oldest of which currently serves in the United States Navy as an AZ2 stationed in Norfolk, VA.  They also have one grandchild, and he truly is the apple of his granddad’s eye.

When Tracey isn’t working in a professional capacity – or working on his golf game – he usually can be found either on the water fishing or in the woods hunting.  Tracey is also an avid heavy metal/rock guitarist and owns no less than 15 guitars.

This season marks Tracey’s third year with the VGA, and he has made many new friends that are a direct result of the natural comraderie that exists among the brotherhood/sisterhood of active duty military, veterans, and military families.

Alan Hamburg

Chief Master Sergeant (retired) Alan L. Hamburg currently lives in West Jordan Utah. He is retired after 35 years of military service, 30 of the years with the Utah Air National Guard as a full-time technician. CMSgt Hamburg was born in, what was then a small town, Yankton South Dakota. He enlisted in the Air Force in August 1982, going to Lackland AFB in October 1982. After basic training he went to Keesler AFB to become an AC&W Radar Specialist (30332), graduating in June 1983. CMSgt Hamburg accepted a position as a Full Time Electronic Technician with the 106^th Air Control Squadron in February 1988. And in December 2014 CMSgt Hamburg was appointed as the Cyber Systems Manager of the 109^th Air Control Squadron.

During his time in the military, CMSgt Hamburg has participated in several exercises including Central Enterprise/Cold Fire in Germany, Operation Foul Eagle in Korea, Operation deny Flight in Italy and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq. He has also deployed several times to the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Columbia and numerous States for counter drug interdiction missions. Shortly after 9-11 he was activated for Operation Noble Eagle, as well as deploying six times to Southwest Asia for various Operations including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. His military awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal with 1 device, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with 7 Devices, Iraq Campaign Medal with 1 Device, and a Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon with 1 Device

CMSgt Hamburg is married to the lovely Pamela who is also a veteran (SMSgt Retired) and is in the VGA. Together, they have 5 children, 12 grandchildren, and 1 Great granddaughter.

CMSgt Hamburg joined the Veteran Golfers Association in September 2022 and played in over 118 VGA events, surprisingly he was able to go to the VGA National in 2024. He didn’t win but meet a lot of great people. Their goal is to play in a VGA event in every state. What he enjoys the most about the VGA is getting to meet fellow veterans and family members. And has made tons of new friends playing golf.

Alton Lavine

Alton Lavine Jr. is a retired U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant whose military career began immediately after high school in the Army National Guard as an Engineer Tracked Vehicle Crewman. In 1986, he transitioned to active-duty service in the Air Force as a Utilities Systems Craftsman, a role he held until his retirement in 2006 from the 820th RED HORSE Squadron at Nellis AFB. Throughout his career, Alton served at multiple duty stations including Tyndall AFB (Florida), Shemya AFB (Alaska), Ramstein AB (Germany), and Morón AB (Spain). He deployed in support of Desert Shield/Desert Storm and humanitarian missions in Europe. He also held numerous additional duty roles such as Base Safety Officer, Military Equal Opportunity Officer, CFETP Officer, and even supported four NASA space shuttle missions while stationed at a transoceanic abort landing site in Spain. After retiring from the Air Force, Alton continued serving in federal contracting as a Project Manager with Chugach Alaska Corporation, supporting operations at locations ranging from the Pentagon to Minot AFB. Born in South Louisiana and raised in Clopton, Alabama, Alton now lives in Wewahitchka, Florida. He attributes his success to God, family, and strong support from friends. He is married to Pauline, a VA employee, and their two children, Princeton and Precious, both serve in careers dedicated to helping others. A passionate sports fan (Atlanta Braves, Alabama Crimson Tide, and New Orleans Saints), Alton is also an enthusiastic golfer. After being introduced to the sport by winning a set of clubs, he became highly active in the Veterans Golf Association (VGA), competing in events across more than 20 states and representing the USAF in the Armed Forces Cup three times. He has won Veteran C Flight titles in both the New York State Championship and the 2025 Alabama State Championship. Outside of golf, he enjoys fishing, archery, and deer hunting.

Alvin McCray

Senior Master Sergeant (Retired) Alvin Alonzo McCray was born and raised in Tallahassee Florida. Before enlisting in the Air Force, Alvin attended colleges at Indiana University/Purdue University at Indianapolis and Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University in Tallahassee. He enlisted in the Air Force in February 1981 as a Personnel Specialist. He served 25 years during which time he was assigned to Mountain Home AFB ID, RAF Upper Heyford UK, Mountain Home AFB ID (again), Scott AFB IL, Air Force Personnel Center Randolph AFB TX, US Central Command MacDill AFB FL, USAFE Air Operations Squadron Ramstein AB GE and his final assignment at Nellis AFB NV.  During his time in service, he deployed or directly supported contingency and humanitarian operations across the globe. After retirement, Alvin continued to serve under the DoD an additional 15 years as a Civil Servant at Nellis AFB NV and where he completed a Bachelor of Science degree with the University of Phoenix before fully retiring.

He started golfing after years of playing basketball in July 1992 and joined the Veterans Golf Association in September 2024. By Joining the VGA, not only did it provide him with the experience to compete against other golfers, but more importantly to meet some amazing veterans and family members.

He currently lives in North Las Vegas Nevada with his wife Loretta for over 34 years together. He has two sons Devin (Navy Veteran) and Quentin (Air Force Active Duty) and the proud granddaddy of five; Dezirae, Amaria, Devin Jr (Marine Active Duty), Ryley, and Quentin Jr.

Colin Beal

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Colin Beal enlisted in the Hawaii Air National Guard in May 1985 and served as a Weather Specialist supporting an Army Aviation Unit.  He joined the Guard after wandering for several years in an “educational wasteland.”  Forced to attend nearly 11 months of military technical training schools requiring mandatory attendance and, ugh, hours of homework each day, graduating with a non-technical degree appeared to be within grasp (or translated as “go to class and not to the beach”).  This experience taught him discipline, provided structure, and helped him formulate long-term goals.

Thus, infused with newfound energy and spirit, he enrolled in the AFROTC Program at the University of Hawaii in 1988 and was commissioned in 1990.  He came on active duty in 1990 at the Jewel of Strategic Air Command: Offutt AFB, Nebraska (highlighting the fact that SAC didn’t really have many nice bases).

During his career he served at 10 different bases in Logistics and Aircraft Maintenance Officer positions at the Base, AF Major Command Headquarters, and Joint HQ-levels.  He was a 2-time squadron commander serving in the Pacific Air Forces’ Contingency Response Group and at the largest Air Base in Middle East.  He finished his Air Force Career as a Mission Support Group Deputy Commander at Barksdale AFB.  Most of his working life post-military was spent with the Veterans Affairs, culminating a 9-year career as the Director of Logistics for the Nebraska-Western Iowa Healthcare System.

During his time in the service, he deployed, like many others, in support of Desert Shield/Desert Storm and Operation Enduring/Iraqi Freedom.  He has been involved in humanitarian relief efforts in Guam, Palau, Philippines and Louisiana.

His education includes Master’s Degrees from the Air Command and Staff College and Central Michigan University, Bachelor’s Degrees from the University of Hawaii, and an Associate’s in Weather Technology from the Community College of the Air Force.

His military awards include the Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (6 OLCs), AF Commendation Medal (1 OLC), and the AF Achievement Medal (1 OLC).

Post-retirement he’s declined opportunities in MMA and Extreme Snowboarding, but enjoys following college sports.  He tries hard to emotionally support the Nebraska Cornhuskers/Creighton Blue Jays, but his heart is with the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors; last year’s darlings of the NCAA Basketball tournament!

He comes from a golfing family and started at a young age because his parents were too old to do any other sports.  He had a mediocre high school career followed by a six-week stint on the University of Hawaii Golf Team (selection criteria: correctly discern the difference between a golf ball and a coconut).  An avid golfer through his Air Force career, he was selected as the Pacific Air Forces representative to the USAF Golf Championships in 2004, finishing only 19 spots behind the winner, but earning the undying respect of his boss for not finishing last.

He joined the Veterans Golfers Association in September 2022 and has absolutely loved the experience.  He’s enjoyed making new friends while playing great golf courses all over the country.  He’s made two hole in ones in VGA competition after trying for 55 years to make the first one.  Since November 2023 he has served as the Nebraska Assistant State Director.

He currently lives in Bellevue, Nebraska with his wife of 33 years (Joy).  His oldest daughter Leilani is a Technical Sergeant in the Nebraska Air National Guard and his youngest daughter, Tiana, just graduated from the University of Hawaii.  They have 3 Shelties that do nothing to pay for food on the table.

Howard Thurman

Master Sergeant (Retired) Howard Thurman is currently located in Crestview, Florida, working at Hurlburt Field AFB as an Air Simulation Instructor. He was born in the Great state of Mississippi on March 15, 1961, and graduated from Florence High School in 1979. He began his Air Force career at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas in July 1983, completing basic training in September 1983. While on active duty he completed tours in Korea, Iceland, Panama and Germany. He was deployed in support of Operation Southern Watch, Operation Desert Storm, and Operation Desert Shield.

His military awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, and the Air Force Achievement Medal.

Member of the Big Brother and Sister organization

Master Sergeant Thurman has a bachelor’s in science from Troy University and a Master’s degree in Whistologly from World University.

Master Sergeant Thurman joined the Veteran Golfers Association in August 2021.

Master Sergeant Thurman is a proud father of two daughters ages 31 and 30. Jordan Thurman lives in Houston, TX and PO1 Monique Thurman lives in San Diego, California.

Jerry Kilmartin

Master Sergeant (Retired) Jerry Kilmartin grew up in upstate NY in the small village of Hudson Falls.  He graduated from Hudson Falls High School in 1978 and entered the United States Air Force two weeks after graduation.  His AF specialty code (AFSC) was as an Orderly Room Clerk.  Jerry traveled extensively throughout his 23.5-year career.  His assignments included Plattsburgh AFB, NY; Clark AB, Philippines; Spangdahlem AB, Germany; Quarry Heights, Panama; Maxwell AFB, AL; Osan AB, Korea; Kadena AB, Japan, Anderson AFB, Guam; and HQ ACC, Langley AFB, VA, respectively.

He started out working in Orderly Rooms until his AFSC merged with personal.  In Panama, he worked on the USSOUTHCOM J-1 staff during Operation Just Cause.  He served as a supervisor in a variety of CBPO/MPF offices from 1990 until his assignment as a personnel inspector with HQ ACC in 1999.  His wartime duty was PERSCO and deployed quite a bit throughout his career.   Temporary overseas duty assignment locations include South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Australia, United Arab Emirates, and Germany throughout his career.

Jerry’s military awards and decorations include:  the Meritorious Service Medal (2 devices), Joint Service Commendation Medal (1 device), Air Force Commendation Medal (5 devices), Joint Service Achievement Medal (1 device), Air Force Achievement Medal (1 device), National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal (1 device), Humanitarian Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (7 devices), Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal (6 devices) and numerous other service ribbons.

Jerry joined the VGA in April 2023 and has never looked back.  He thoroughly enjoys the company, comradery, and fellowship of all the vets and family members, coupled with the opportunity to travel throughout the US, golfing.  His goal is to golf in all 50 states and as of this bio has 17 remaining states to go.

Jerry has been married to his lovely wife, Rosana, for nearly 33 years.  They have four children:  Damian (WA), Tarasita (NV), Jay (NY), and Leonard (CT) and one grandson, Mateo Alexander (NY).  His claim to fame is all his sons were born on a different island in the Pacific theater and his daughter in Germany.  Jerry works at Hartford CSD, NY, and will soon be retiring from a second career after 23 years.

Scott Hoffman

Col (Ret) Scott “Barney” Hoffman grew up in Denver, Colorado. After graduating college and working for five years as an Aerospace Engineer, he earned his commission through Air Force through Officers Training School.  Briefly serving as a Weapons System Officer in the B-1B, he acquired a pilot training slot and subsequently flew the A-10 Warthog at various assignments to include Eielson AFB, Alaska, Osan AB, South Korea, and Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona as well as multiple overseas deployments.  In addition to his flying history, his staff experience includes tours as the Lead Strategic Planner, Headquarters ISAF in Kabul, Afghanistan; Chief of Flight Safety at Air Combat Command, and as Deputy Director for the Strategy, Plans, Programs, and Requirements Directorate (A58) for Pacific Air Forces.  His major decorations include the Legion of Merit (“C” Device and 2x OLCs), Bronze Star Medal (1x OLC), and the Air Medal (4x “C” Devices and 8x OLCs).

He commanded at the Squadron and Group level, commanding the 455th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron, Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan and the 447th Air Expeditionary Group at Incirlik AB, Turkey and is a Command Pilot with over 3300 total flying hours, to include more than 2700 hours—with over 800 combat hours—in the A-10.  He has flown combat sorties in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH, Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, and Operation INHERENT RESOLVE.

Retiring from the USAF after 30 years of service, he is now the Airport Operations Manager at a local general aviation airport.

“Barney” started playing golf consistently later in life and was introduced to the VGA when he and a fellow co-worker / great friend explored new avenues to play golf together while stationed at Hickam AFB, Hawaii.

Married to his high school sweetheart Patti for over 37 years, they have one son who graduated the United States Military Academy at West Point (and so did his wife!) and two grandchildren.  “Barney” and Patti now live in Texas so we can watch our grandchildren grow into fantastic young adults and enjoy God’s blessings.

Wayne Johnson

Lieutenant Colonel Wayne A. Johnson (Retired) grew up in Hazel Crest, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago.  He graduated from Thornwood High School in 1981 and entered the United States Air Force soon after graduation. Over his 40 year Air Force career, his AF specialty codes (AFSC) included enlisted time as a Special Purpose Vehicle Mechanic, Transportation Specialist, Traffic Management Office and a Combat Arms Training Instructor and after commissioning, he was a Logistics Readiness Officer.  Wayne’s assignments included March AFB, CA, Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio, Pope AFB, NC, JB Charleston, SC, Scott AFB, IL and Robins AFB, GA.  He deployed to the Middle East in support of several on-going military operations.  Wayne was selected for the prestigious Logistics Career Broadening Program (LCBP) and after completing the program was selected to serve at the Air Force Reserve Command’s Force Generation Center tasked with ensuring the Air Force Reserve integrated seamlessly with Active Duty exercises.  Wayne earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration.

Wayne’s military awards and decorations include: Meritorious Service Medal w/three devices, Air Force Commendation Medal w/ three devices, Air Force Achievement Medal w/ one device, Meritorious Unit Award, Outstanding Unit Award w/ three devices, AF Good Conduct Medal, Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal w/ six devices, National Defense Medal w/ device, Iraq Campaign Medal w/ device, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, AF Overseas Ribbon Short Tour, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon w/ Gold Border, AF Longevity Service Medal w/ six devices, Armed Forces Reserve Medal w/ 2 ‘M’ Devices, USAF NCO PME Graduate Ribbon, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon w/ Device, Navy Pistol Shot Medal, Navy Expert Rifle Medal, and the AF Training Ribbon w/ Device.

Wayne joined the VGA in 2021 and was named Player of the Year in 2023.  Wayne values the VGA goals of enriching veteran’s lives through golf and camaraderie.  The combination of access to amazing golf courses CONUS and OCONUS, the deep friendships he’s made, the enjoyment of meeting and playing golf with veterans, sharing experiences and enjoying storytelling and the dedicated leadership of the VGA have made this an uplifting and important part of the fabric of his retired life. The VGA staff, State Directors and Assistant Directors work tirelessly to provide a professional experience and most importantly – a fun time.  A day on the course is better than any day at the office.  He continues to work on filling his VGA state map and hopes to eventually win a pin in every US state and territory.  Wayne has been married to his lovely wife, Sharon, for 44 years. They have one son, Jeffrey (OH).

William Chapdelaine

TSgt. William J. Chapdelaine.  United States Air Force Retired.  Born on May 30,1953. I grew-up in Sutton, MA.   The first time I played golf, was at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Sutton MA., during Caddy Day, and I’ve been playing ever since.  On 9-11-2004, at Richwood Golf Course in Bluefield, VA, I acquired my fist hole-in-one.

Upon Graduating from Sutton Memorial High School in 1971, I received a draft number of 10.  I immediately joined the Air Force delayed enlistment program.  In September of 1971, I went active duty.  After Basic Training and 44 weeks of Technical Training at Keesler AFB, I was assigned to North Truro AF Station, Cape Cod, MA.  150 miles from home.

As an Electronic Computer and Switching Systems Technician, I maintained and repaired large air defense computer systems and associated equipment.  In 1974, I volunteered and was assigned to Tyndall AFB, Panama City FL.  In 1984, went to Denver CO., for 6 months of schooling, then off to South Australia for 2 years. In 1987, my last assignment was with the 84^th Radar Evaluation Squadron out of Hill AFB, UT.  During my military career I received the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Accommodation Medal with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters (OLCs), AF Achievement Medal, AF Outstanding Unit Award with 1 OLC, AF Good Conduct Medal with 5 OLCs, Nation Defense Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, AF Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, plus other Training Ribbons.  Retired in September 1991.

I married Diana in 1978, with 4 wonderful daughters whom I adopted. I currently have 8 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.  After the military, I retired in Panama City FL and worked as an assistant manager at a Junior Food store.  Then in January 1994, I obtained a job in the Medical Imaging field and moved to Bluefield, WV.  As a Modality Field Engineer, I maintained and repaired MRI’s, VCT’s and PET/CT Scanners. I also served as a Remote Service Expert for the MRI.  Retired from GE Healthcare in September 2016.  Joined the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 628 as a Life Member and I’m currently serving as a Board Member for the Chapter.  I joined the Veteran’s Golf Association in October of 2021 and I’m having a wonderful time.

Andrew Tschumper

Lance Corporal Andrew Tschumper was born and raised in Belvidere, Illinois. He graduated from Belvidere High School in 1999 before beginning his service in the United States Marine Corps. He attended boot camp at MCRD San Diego in 1999. His military occupational specialty was 2513 Construction Wireman, where he later expanded his skills by working with fiber optics and communications systems.

During his service, Tschumper was stationed at Camp Hansen (Okinawa, Japan) with the 7th Communication Battalion, including a deployment to Rockhampton, Australia, in support of Operation Tandem Thrust. He was later stationed at Camp Pendleton (Oceanside, California) with 9th Communication Battalion and deployed to Kuwait and Iraq in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. After serving just over four years, he was honorably discharged in November 2003.

Following his military career, he pursued his passion for golf by attending San Diego Golf Academy in 2003, graduating in 2005. Since 2004, he has built a career as a golf professional, beginning as an Assistant Golf Professional at La Costa Resort & Spa, and most recently serving as an Assistant Golf Professional at Cacapon State Park.

Tschumper relocated to West Virginia in 2017, where he has continued to grow both personally and professionally. He is the proud father of two daughters, Zoe, who lives in California, and Ireland, who is a sophomore at West Virginia University majoring in Psychology.

Above all, Tschumper loves teaching the game of golf to players of all ages and skill levels. Whether helping someone improve their swing, watching a college tournament, enjoying a spontaneous round with friends, or spending a late afternoon on the course with his girlfriend, Jillian, golf has always been more than a profession to him—it has been a lifelong passion and a way to connect with others.

Brent Dexter

Brent Dexter, a dedicated professional, veteran, and family man, has built a life defined by hard work, resilience, and commitment to both his country and community.
A 1984 high school graduate, Brent pursued one year of college before entering the workforce. In 1987, he answered a higher calling by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. During his service, he achieved the rank of Corporal while serving with HMH-465 as a 0431 Logistics and Embarkation Specialist. In June 1990, while deployed aboard the USS Okinawa on a Westpac tour, Brent and his fellow Marines were redirected to the Persian Gulf, where they played a role in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm during a pivotal moment in U.S. military history.
Following his honorable discharge in May 1991, Brent transitioned back to civilian life, taking on various jobs before settling in Lincoln, Nebraska. It was there that he began a 16-year career with Saia Motor Freight. Starting as a night dock worker, Brent’s strong work ethic and leadership abilities propelled him through the ranks, ultimately earning him the position of Terminal Manager.
In 2007, Brent relocated to Russellville, Tennessee, where he took an entrepreneurial step by investing in a Bumper Man franchise. Since then, he has built a successful business, providing weekly service to more than 60 dealerships across his territory. Known for his precision and reliability, Brent specializes in restoring truck bumpers, removing dents and twists with expert care.
In 2023, Brent joined the Veterans Golfers Association (VGA), where he has connected with fellow veterans, built lasting friendships, and played some of the most beautiful golf courses across the country. In November 2025, he was named Assistant State Director for Tennessee, continuing his commitment to service and camaraderie among veterans.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Brent is a devoted husband to his wife, Brenda, whose unwavering support has been a cornerstone of his journey—especially in his passion for golf and pursuit of personal goals. He is also a proud father of four children, two daughters– Ashley, Office Manager at Seattle Periodontics and Implant Dentistry in Seattle, WA and Billea, Safety and Risk Coordinator at Cannonball Express in Omaha, NE.  Two sons– Dylan, (SGT USMC)  Service Sales Rep at Cintas in Tucson, AZ and Jake, Machine Operator at Iatric in Morristown, TN as well as a grandfather to seven grandchildren, all of whom remain at the heart of his life.

Brian Byrd

Brian Byrd grew up in southeastern Kentucky, graduating from his hometown Williamsburg High School in 1991.  He attended college at East Tennessee State University and University of the Cumberlands. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and departed for recruit training at Parris Island, SC on April 27, 1993.  While assigned to the 2^nd Marine Division, 6^th Marines Regimental HQ Company for the duration of his enlistment; Brian had multiple training assignments in Twenty-Nine Palms, CA and at the Jungle Operations Training Center (JOTC) in Panama.

After four years of honorable service, he returned to ETSU in 1997 after his enlistment.

In July, he married his wife, Missy. They have been married for 29 years.  She is a graduate of ETSU, and a Math Specialist with over 30 years teaching in the Sullivan County School System.
In 1999, Brian started work with the U.S. Postal Service, serving as a Clerk and City Letter Carrier in Johnson City, TN.  In 2003, he entered management and served in many positions throughout Tennessee. His final assignment was the Postmaster of Piney Flats, TN, just a few miles from his home.  With 26 years in the USPS and 30 years total working in Federal Government, Brian decided to retire early to enjoy his time with his family and pursue his love of golf through the VGA. Brian currently splits his time with his family in Tennessee and at the family home in Pawleys Island, SC.

Brian is a proud father of two daughters, Sydney and Gracey. They are his greatest accomplishments.  He credits his wife, Missy, for getting him back into golf. Her encouragement for him to participate in the PGA Hope Program in Myrtle Beach, SC, is what led him to join the Veteran Golfers Association in July 2024. Upon learning about the Armed Forces Cup, that became his first goal as a member.

Brian is proud to have qualified to represent the U.S. Marine team in 2026.  But most of all, he is very thankful to all the veterans and directors who have contributed to helping him achieve his goals playing in the VGA.
Semper Fidelis

Chris Thielemann

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Chris Thielemann retired from the U.S. Marine Corps in December 2015 after 21+ years of enlisted and commissioned service. Chris immediately started his second career with the Department of Justice as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Northern Florida before being appointed as a U.S. Immigration Judge in 2018 serving in Dallas, Texas.

After graduating from high school in in 1990, Chris attended boot camp at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, South Carolina followed by advanced training at Ft. Eustis, Virginia. He then attended Armstrong State University (now Georgia Southern University) on a Marine-Option Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarship where he earned a B.S. in Criminal Justice and an A.A.S. in Corrections upon graduation and commissioning in 1994. He was the first Marine-Option to ever graduate from Armstrong State University.

Chris began his enlisted time as a Longshoreman and then commissioned as an Artillery Officer serving at Camp LeJeune, NC, and then Ft. Sill, OK as a Gunnery Instructor. While at Ft. Sill, Chris was selected for the Funded Law Education Program and attended The Florida State University College of Law where he earned his Juris Doctor in 2002 and became a Marine Judge Advocate for the remainder of his career. As a Judge Advocate, Chris served in variety of prosecution and defense positions in addition to serving as an Assistant Professor at the U.S. Naval Academy—his favorite duty station—and later as a Military Judge. During this time, Chris also returned to school and earned an advanced law degree (L.L.M.) in criminal law from The Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School at the University of Virginia

Chris served across the country and overseas to included Quantico, VA, Camp LeJeune, NC, Ft. Sill, OK, Beaufort and Parris Island, SC, Annapolis, MD, Okinawa, Japan, and Camp Pendleton, CA. He also deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Chris is married to Tiffany, who is also a member of the VGA and plays in every tournament with Chris. It is Tiffany who gave Chris his motivation to play golf and take the chance of competing and pursuing his goal of representing the Marines at AFC. Chris is also the proud father of four children—1 daughter and 3 boys—who have all graduated college other than the youngest who will graduate the week before the AFC Championship.

Doug Gerwulf

Lance Corporal Douglas Gerwulf served in the Marine Corps as an infantryman for six years during the years of 1987-1992 with assignments that included Marine Barracks “8th and I”, deployment to the first Gulf War in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, 29 Palms in California and Okinawa, Japan. While on the Presidential Detail at “8th and I”, his most memorable moment during this detail came when he was selected to be on the detail that escorted President Reagan to his last ride on Air Force One.

After departing the military he worked several odds and ends jobs, until getting into the communication field. It started with a phone company in Iowa, which progressed into splicing outside plant fiber optics. He has been working in the field for 25+ years and currently works for Fusion Pros out of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota.

Lance Corporal Gerwulf resides in Sioux Center, Iowa. His daughter, Brianne lives in Alburnett, Iowa with her fiance Carston and 2 year old grandson Arlo.

On a normal Saturday morning waiting for the rain to clear at his local course, he met a couple guys, veterans, bragging about a tournament they just played in Nebraska where it was 70 degrees and 40 mph winds. They said it was with an organization called the VGA. The next morning, over coffee he looked it up, paid the membership and signed up for his first tournament the next weekend at Lake Panorama in Panora,Iowa.

Joining the VGA was one of the best decisions that this Marine ever made. Meeting fellow veterans from all over the United States, sharing stories of lives lived and playing golf on courses never dreamed of playing has been very fulfilling. Many hurdles have been accomplished from communications skills to anger management, which has transformed into everyday life. Semper Fi. No one fights alone.

James Eugene

James Eugene is a proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran with nearly 12 years of distinguished service, including four combat tours supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Throughout his military career, James demonstrated unwavering leadership, resilience, and dedication while serving in critical roles such as Platoon Sergeant, Squad Leader, Foreign Military Advisor, Team Leader, and Intelligence Analyst. He also completed specialized assignments as a Marine Embassy Security Guard in Yemen, New Zealand, and Tanzania, where he provided armed security for U.S. Embassies and safeguarded American personnel and national interests abroad. Known for his ability to lead under pressure, James consistently fostered a culture of mentorship, accountability, and excellence among the Marines he served alongside.
Following his honorable service, James transitioned his passion for leadership and community into the game of golf and the golf industry. As a PGA WORKS Fellow with the Metropolitan PGA Section, he contributed to impactful initiatives including PGA HOPE, Junior Tour, Drive, Chip & Putt, PGA Junior League, foundation fundraising efforts, and professional championship operations. Through these efforts, he helped support and generate over $200,000 for charitable programming while expanding opportunities and accessibility for veterans, juniors, and military families through the game of golf.
James further developed his operational and event management expertise while supporting the 2019 PGA Championship and most recent the 2025 Ryder Cup Championship in volunteer operations, junior programming, social media activations, and the Secretary’s Cup. His hands-on leadership extended into golf operations at Bonnie Briar Country Club, where he managed hospitality standards, retail operations, club repair services, and championship-level caddie support.
Now entering his fifth year as a leader within the Veteran Golfers Association (VGA), James currently serves as the New York State Director, overseeing and strategically managing a team of eight Assistant Directors positioned throughout multiple regions across the state. Under his leadership, the VGA New York Chapter continues to expand its impact through membership growth, enhanced player engagement, premier golf events, and stronger community-building initiatives designed to connect and empower veterans through the game of golf.
In addition to his role with the VGA, James also serves as a Military Advisor to the Metropolitan PGA Section Foundation, advocating for programs like PGA HOPE that utilize golf as a pathway for healing, rehabilitation, camaraderie, and personal growth for veterans.

Nakia Gray

Sergeant Nakia Gray joined the Marine Corps in 1993 by way of Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California. Working as a Military Police and Traffic Accident Investigator at MCAS Yuma, AZ., MCAS Iwakuni, Japan, Marine Corps Base Okinawa, Japan, and finishing up 8 years back at MCAS Yuma, AZ.

In 2000, after exiting the Marine Corps, Nakia went to Dallas, TX and worked Corporate Security for Ross Perot. After a short 8 months, he came to the conclusion that the civilian sector wasn’t for his family as well as himself. After an unsuccessful effort to rejoin the Marine Corps, Nakia joined the United States Army in 2001. After completing MOS school, Nakia was stationed in Germany for 8 eight years, which included a 12-month deployment followed by a 15-month deployment to Iraq.

Sergeant Gray’s service medals include the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with 3 OLC, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal 3 OLC, the Army Achievement Medal 2 OLC, Army Good Conduct Medal with 4 Service Stars, the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal with 2 Service Stars, the National Defense Service Medal with 1 Service Star, the Iraqi Campaign Medal with 3 Service Stars, to include several more awards and achievements.

Sergeant Gray has two children, who were both born in Okinawa, Japan. Eian 28, also served in the Marine Corps for 4 years. Briona 26 resides in Beaufort, SC., and is a 2021 graduate of the Citadel in Charleston, SC. Briona also blessed Sergeant Gray with his first grandchild, Jackson Gray, who is 6 years old, currently in the 1^st Grade.

In 2014, when Nakia finally decided to hang up his boots, his next big tackle was learning the game of golf.

Scott Patchkowski

Cpl Scott Patchkowski was born and raised in Petoskey MI.  He enlisted into the Marine Corps in 1990, earning the title of Marine at MCRD San Diego in June 1990.

Upon completion of Marine Combat Training and School of Infantry at Camp Pendleton CA,  and Marine Corps Security Forces School on Mare Island CA, he was assigned to the Marine Detachment, USS  Abraham Lincoln shortly after it was commissioned.  His sea service included The Lincoln’s maiden deployment to the Perian Gulf and Operation Desert Storm.

The remainder of his 4 year enlistment was served as an Infantry Marine with 2^nd  Btn 4^th Marines.  Duty Stations included time at Camp Lejeune NC, Camp Schwab Okinawa Japan, and 29 Palms CA, rising to the position of squad leader.

His military decorations include the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Humanitarian Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with 1-star, Southwest Asia Service Medal with 1-star, and the Kuwait Liberation of Kuwait Medal.

His career following his service included years as an automotive sales representative and sales manager.

He currently resides in Doylestown Pennsylvania with his wife Jo and their two dogs, Tripp and Storm.

He has been actively involved with the VGA since 2019 and has been serving as an Assistant Director for Pennsylvania since 2023.  Scott was the North Region Veteran C champion in 2026 and proudly competed at the 2025 National Championship at Olympia Fields.  It is an honor and a thrill to have the opportunity to represent the United States Marine Corps at the Armed Forces Cup in 2026.

Steve Martinez

Lance Corporal Steven L. Martinez served in the Marine Corps as an infantryman (0311) from1984-1988. His first duty assignment was Marine Barracks Sigonella Sicily from 84-86.  Steve was then reported to 3^rd Battalion 7^th Marines.  While with 3/7 he was deployed to Okinawa, Japan, Camp Fuji, and Diego Garcia.  During his time with 3/7 he also trained at Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, CA and 29 Palms.

After departing from the USMC, he worked a few jobs and then decided to go to college. Lance Corporal Martinez has been teaching Special Education for 30 years. He is also the golf coach of the men’s high school golf team.

Lance Corporal Martinez resides Sacramento CA with his wife Lee Anne, who is Navy Veteran. They met in Sigonella and have been married for 40 years.  They have 23-year-old twin son and daughter. His son Daniel is a Marine stationed at MCAS Beaufort SC.

Steve has been a member of VGA for a number of years and was Assistant Director for California for over 2 years. This is his second time making the AFC team.

Courtney De Groot

Chief Yeoman Courtney De Groot is a Chicagoland Native and began her career with the United States Coast Guard in October 2010.

Upon completion of Basic Training she spent her first year at Station Lake Tahoe where she was able to see the operational side of the Coast Guard conducting search and rescue and law enforcement operations. She transferred to Charleston, SC where she was stationed for 5 years and became a Plank Owner of Base Charleston. YNC was then selected to serve at Coast Guard Headquarters on the Commandant’s staff as the Administrative Assistant to the Chaplain of the Coast Guard. While stationed there YNC De Groot helped with the creation of the Auxiliary Chaplain Program and was an active member of the Foreign Joint Services Noncommissioned Officers Association (FJSNA). She then transferred to Base Cleveland, OH where she was selected as Base Cleveland’s Enlisted Person of the Year. YNC De Groot then branched out from her rating as a Yeoman and started her current billet with Recruiting Office Indianapolis serving as the MEPS Liaison and guiding the way for future shipmates joining the Coast Guard.

As a young child her parents encouraged her to try golf and she really enjoyed playing but as a teenager she decided it was time to hang up her clubs. She made the wise decision to start golfing again a few years ago and been able to play many rounds with her family. A shipmate encouraged her to join the VGA and she played her first event in March of 2025 and her first season ended with winning the National Championship for her flight. YNC De Groot is extremely proud to be a part of the VGA and so thankful for the friendships and experiences it has brought her.

Chief De Groot is currently stationed in Indianapolis and enjoys spending time with her family and spoiling her dog, Ted

Hannah Schramke

I am still an active duty Boatswains Mate Second Class, serving as a Seamanship and Firefighting Instructor at our boot camp in Cape May NJ. Having started my Coast Guard career here in this very place, I have since then been to Station Tawas in Michigan, Patrol Forces Southwest Asia in Bahrain, Station Valdez in Alaska, Station Belle Isle in Detroit. I was then a plank owner on a new Fast Response Cutter, which I helped sail from Key West FL to Bahrain, where I was coxswain when our ship got the largest weapons bust in fifth fleet history (prior to Operation Epic Fury) of 170 tons of missile fuel which Iran was smuggling to Yemen. From there I went to Station Portsmouth in Virginia and received my diagnosis of Breast Cancer. After receiving the initial surgeries at the Naval Hospital in Portsmouth, I moved to Indiana to live with my mother for chemotherapy and radiation. I turned to golf through the VGA during this time, golfing every week through chemo. The friends I made, the small accomplishments of finishing each round, getting outdoors, hearing the stories of service and illness, joys and triumphs of the other veterans playing were all medicines no hospital can offer. I am so grateful to golf and the VGA family for being with me during that chapter of life, offering me fun and distraction. As soon as I was declared fit for full duty again, I got orders to teach at our boot camp, where I can pass on my passion and enthusiasm for the service onto new recruits.
My most exciting VGA story was at the Central Region AFC qualifier: both days and on the same hole, I hit a miracle drive 280 yards to the exact same spot to set me up for a win each time.
I’m looking forward to many more years of service to my country and great golf.

John Harris

John Harris joined the US Coast Guard on September 15, 1967.  His father served in the US Coast Guard during WWII.  In September 1967, there was only one Coast Guard recruiter in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the Coast Guard took only one recruit per month.
John went to basic training in Cape May, NJ.  After boot camp, he was transferred to a search and rescue station in South Haven, Michigan.  About 13 months later, he was transferred to the Coast Guard Group office, Chicago, Ill where he studied to become a yeoman.  Approximately 1 year later, after becoming a Yeoman 3rd class, he was transferred to the Great Lakes Naval base as the Coast Guard representative for Coast Guardsmen attending Navy schools.  John served his remaining 2 years and 2 months at Great Lakes.  Then he left the Coast Guard after 4 years as a E-5, Yeoman 2^nd.
John is still self-employed as an independent financial advisor.  His clients won’t let him retire!  His hobbies are Oklahoma football, bass fishing, golf, and keeping up with 5 grandchildren.
His best golfing experience and best Coast Guard experience are the same.  In November 2024, he qualified for the VGA Central Region AFC Qualifier in Tylor, Texas.  Before his match, he went to the driving range to stay loose.  He was the only one on the range until another VGA golfer started warming up a few spots from him.  For some reason, he put down his clubs and walked over to introduce himself to the golfer.  Turned out to be Aaron Rigozzi, a veteran marine.  John asked Aaron where he was from and where he was currently living. Aaron replied that he was from South Haven, Michigan, and still lived in South Haven.  He shared with Aaron that he was familiar with South Haven because he had served in South Haven while serving in the US Coast Guard.  Aaron asked if he meant Grand Haven, Michigan because there was not a Coast Guard station in South Haven.  John replied that when he was in South Haven, November 1967 thru July 1968, there was a 10-man search and rescue station on the lake.  Aaron answered, “that is correct, because my mother had just graduated from high school in 1968, went out on a sailboat, a bad storm had suddenly come up, and the sailboat capsized; and she was rescued by the Coast Guard from South Haven.”  After asking Aaron a few more questions about his mother’s rescue, it was determined that John was part of the 4-man crew that had rescued Aaron’s mother (before he was born) and three of her friends!  As of today, that would have been approximately 58 years ago.

Justin Knudsen

Master Chief Justin Knudsen retired after 24 years of service in June 2024 as the Reserve Command Master Chief for Coast Guard Atlantic Area in Portsmouth Virginia, where he advised the Area Commander and oversaw the efficient and effective management of 3,200 reservists.

Master Chief Knudsen is a native of Staten Island, NY where he currently resides with his wife Elisabeth, and two children, Grace and JJ.  His previous assignments include Northeast District Reserve Command Master Chief, Sector New York Reserve Command Master Chief, Reserve Training Petty Officer at Station New York, Senior Enlisted Reserve Advisor at Station Sandy Hook, Sector New York Enforcement Division, USCGC Hawser, and USCGC Adak.

He is a 2010 graduate of the Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer’s Academy and a 2012 graduate of the Coast Guard Senior Enlisted Leadership Course.  He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Wagner College and a USCG 100 Ton Masters License.  Master Chief Knudsen retired with 20 years of service from the New York City Police Department in April 2023 where he achieved the rank of Captain.  He served in the 94^th, 88^th, 84^th, 62^nd, 120^th, 1^st, and Midtown South Precincts.  In addition, he spent several years in the NYPD Harbor Unit where he managed the training program for 200 Officers with a fleet of 30 Police Boats.

Rick Vanlandingham

Rick Vanlandingham retired from the Coast Guard (CG) as a CWO4 Special Agent with the Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) after twenty-nine years. His journey began in July 1985 as Recruit Company Commander or “RC” of Bravo Company 121. After boot-camp, he was stationed onboard the Cutter Maui based in Miami, FL which patrolled South Florida and Bahamian waters conducting drug interdictions. His next twelve years were spent in CG Aviation at Sitka, AK, Traverse City, MI, and Astoria, OR. During his time in aviation, he qualified as Flight Mechanic on the HH-3 Pelican and HH-60 Jayhawk. At Sitka, AK, he was awarded the Lt. Robert A. Perchard Memorial Trophy as voted on by the officers. The award is presented semi-annually at each air station to exemplify the high standards of character, professionalism, ability and leadership. He was also awarded the Sikorsky Helicopter Rescue Award for a lifesaving rescue in Alaskan waters. At Air Station Astoria, he was selected for night shift Primary Quality Assurance Inspector. Night shift conducted the predominate amount of heavy maintenance on the aircraft resulting in a test flight before the aircraft was deemed ready for search and rescue missions. Rick also was on the Flight Examination Board which insured personnel were capable and ready to assume duties of aircrew onboard the helicopter.

Rick enjoyed his time in the aviation field, but he had a strong desire to enter law enforcement. So, in his fourteenth year he applied and was accepted into CGIS. He graduated from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Ga in August 1999 with 94% academic average and qualified expert on the practical pistol course with a score of 294 out of 300. His first CGIS office was Houston, TX and after the September 11, 2001, attacks on our nation, Rick was selected to serve as an Air Marshal for six months. The Air Marshal Service at that time had only twenty-five air marshals. Rick went on to serve as Resident Agent in Charge at each of his following assignments in, Kodiak, AK, Anchorage, AK, East Moriches, NY, and Bellingham, WA. While stationed in Anchorage, Rick attended Chief Warrant Officer Development School at the CG Academy. He received the Leadership Award as voted on by the school instructors for displaying outstanding leadership qualities. Rick’s criminal investigations ranged from environmental, false mayday’s, burglary, domestic violence, fisheries violations, drug trafficking, assault, death, fraud, and sex crimes. Rick also conducted protective service operations for the CG Commandant on several overseas trips. During his five years in Anchorage, Rick worked out of the local FBI office conducting Joint Terrorism Task Force cases as well as investigative duties for CGIS. During his career, Rick was awarded three Achievement Medals and one Commendation Medal.

Rick was introduced to golf while watching Arnold Palmer play on television. He later learned Mr. Palmer was a fellow coastie after visiting the World Golf Hall of Fame when it was located at St. Augustine, FL. When Rick was thirteen, his first job was caddying on the weekends at a local country club. He later worked at the pro shop and cart barn retrieving members clubs and placing them on the golf carts before their round. Because of this amazing first job he was allowed to play the course free every Monday. This is when Rick fell in love with the game.

Rick is married to Robyn, his bride of 38 years. They are blessed to have four awesome children, Zachariah, Rachel, Stephanie, and Jacob. They are all married to wonderful people. Rick and Robyn presently have a total of nine grandchildren. When Rick and Robyn are not golfing in VGA tournaments around the country, they travel to spend time with their children and grandchildren.

Roderick Golphin

Hi, I’m Rick Golphin, representing the U.S. Coast Guard. After a healthy career as a public servant, I’m now a 66-year-old pensioner residing in the Las Vegas area with Donna, my wife of 47 years. We have three adult sons and four grandchildren. One of our sons is a 2005 CG Academy Grad and another served on the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Persian Gulf. Two sailors out of three isn’t bad!!

I originally enlisted in the U.S.C.G late 1978!  After completing Radioman A school, I got my first set of orders, sending me to Leavenworth KS! I thought I was being pranked! I mean who would assign a boot from the San Francisco Bay to Kansas!! That turned out to be great duty with great people. I eventually served 30 years in the U.S. Coast Guard & Coast Guard Reserve before retiring in 2013 as an OSS4.

Over the course of my career, I saw the Old D.O.T. Guard transition to the New Guard with D.H.S.! Most of the units where I served have since been decommissioned. CG Districts were realigned and renamed, and my RM rating changed to TC and then OS. I promoted to COMMS warrant and that changed to OSS as well. Losing the Sparks indicator with that change was a real disappointment for a veteran Radioman!

My other active-duty assignments were the USCGC Morgenthau and Communications Station Honolulu. While in Honolulu, I sailed TAD on the 180’ Buoy Tender, Sassafras. We patrolled the South Pacific and during that underway, I entered the realm of the Golden Shellback! That was really special for a CG Sailor!

As a Reservist, I served in joint USN/USCG Expeditionary Warfare units and various CG Comms and Intel assignments within PACAREA and District Eleven. Recalled to Active-Duty post 9/11, I stood up the original PACAREA Maritime Homeland Security Watch position. I completed my career as I started it, serving as a SAR controller, this time in the PACAREA Command Center. Like most career Coasties, I received the usual Longevity and campaign awards and CG Commendation and Achievement medals.

Professionally, alongside the Coast Guard, I also enjoyed a 26-year career in municipal law enforcement, spending twenty years policing with the Oakland California PD and a few more with Tracy California PD. I finished my civilian career as the Deputy Director of Animal Services in Contra Costa County California! Now that was a challenge!!!  But that phase of life is in the past and I’m now fully enjoying retirement and making the most of my time on and off the course.

I grew up in Berkeley California and was introduced to golf as a young person but played sporadically over the years. I originally learned to play right-handed but switched to my dominant (left) hand in mid-life, and that’s how I’ve played ever since.

After stepping away from the game for about five years, I’ve recently taken it up again and have found it even more challenging now!!  These days I play mostly with the Veterans Golf Association (VGA), which has been a wonderful way to stay active and meet fellow golfers and veterans. I’m working hard to get my scores back down!!

Looking forward to more rounds and good company!

Todd Rourk

Todd Rourk served in the United States Coast Guard for 24 years. He enlisted out of Miami, Florida in 1987 and retired in 2011 as a Chief Electronics Technician. His tours of duty included a WMEC, WHEC, WLB, Electronic Detachments and LORAN C assignments. His final tour in the USCG took him to Recruiting duty where he got back into golf with a little persuasion from his shipmates.

Todd joined the VGA in 2018 and has played in numerous events throughout the United States. He got the call for the AFC a few years ago but did not go because of a conflict with his schedule. He had no idea what the event was but after a little research and a few close attempts at qualifying for the National AFC, he finally earned a spot on the team and is excited to represent team Coast Guard ! After the USCG he dabbled in running his own marine electronics company, working at a local golf course as a cart person and behind the counter guy. Now you can find him in North Carolina playing golf , pickleball, taking an occasional cruise on the open ocean or simply enjoying his 3 grandkids. Todd has one son and two daughters that he also enjoys spending time with.

Tyler Bowden

Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) Tyler Bowden is a dual-role Coast Guard member, currently serving as a drilling reservist at Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay in Philadelphia, PA, and as a full-time federal civilian at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC.

CWO Bowden’s career began in 2010 when he enlisted in the Coast Guard reserves and served for the first seven years on Active Duty fulfilling multiple contingency roles including Operation Deepwater Horizon (New Orleans Oil Spill), Operation Enduring Freedom (Guantanamo Bay), and multiple hurricane contingencies impacting the southeast US and Puerto Rico. In 2017, he transitioned back to reserve drill status (inactive duty). As a drilling reserve, he completed a four-year tour at Coast Guard Surface Forces Logistics Center, Mobile Support Unit, Baltimore, MD, and when promoted to CWO transferred to Philadelphia where he currently serves. His enlisted rating was Storekeeper and he was promoted to Finance and Supply Warrant Officer in April, 2022.

Tyler’s Coast Guard civilian career began in 2017 when he was hired into a budget analyst role at Coast Guard Command Control and Communications Service Center based out of Alexandria, VA. In 2019, Tyler was promoted into an appropriation manager and senior financial analyst position in the Office of Budget Execution under the CFO at Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC, where he currently serves and plans to remain until retirement.

CWO Bowden is originally from West Palm Beach, FL and is married to and joined by Faviola (Perdomo) Bowden, also a Coast Guard reserve and civilian, of Houston, TX, and they currently reside in Quantico, VA. They have three children – Kyran (18), Mia (16) and Olivia (4). Tyler earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Purdue University in 2019 and has held certification as Defense Financial Manager since 2017.

CWO Bowden’s significant awards and achievements include two CG commendation medals, two achievement medals, global war on terror expeditionary medal, humanitarian service medal, military outstanding volunteer medal, and two Chief Financial Officer Awards for Excellence.

Wesley Hanna

Wesley Hanna, a native of Nacogdoches, TX, is a dedicated military service member with a distinguished record spanning 16 years of active duty. Wesley began his military journey in the US Navy, where he developed a strong foundation in leadership, discipline, and teamwork. After several years of service, he transitioned to the US Coast Guard, continuing his commitment to national security and public service.

Currently, Wesley is stationed at USCG Base New Orleans, where he plays a vital role in supporting Coast Guard operations and ensuring the safety and well-being of the region.

Beyond his professional duties, Wesley is passionate about fostering connections within the veteran community. In 2023, he became a member of the Veteran Golfers Association (VGA), an organization dedicated to promoting camaraderie, wellness, and friendly competition among veterans through the game of golf. Wesley values the sense of belonging and mutual support that the VGA provides, and he actively participates in events and activities that strengthen bonds among fellow service members.

Wesley is also preparing to compete in the Armed Forces Cup, a prestigious Ryder Cup-style tournament that brings together military golfers from across the country. He is enthusiastic about representing his branch and engaging in spirited competition, while also embracing the opportunity to connect with other military members who share his passion for golf. Through his involvement in the VGA and participation in the Armed Forces Cup, Wesley continues to exemplify dedication, sportsmanship, and service both on and off the course.