ATLANTA -- Birthdays can bring all types of people together, and that's just what the Army's 235th birthday did June 17 at the Association of the United States Army Army birthday week golf tournament at Fort McPherson.
The tournament brought Soldiers, Civilian employees, Family members and local businesses together to support the Army while enjoying a game of golf.
"Thank you for passing up the U.S. Open to be here," joked retired Maj. Gen. James Donald, president of the Greater Atlanta chapter of the AUSA.
Although Donald opened his remarks with a joke, he said the proceeds of the tournament go toward the serious issue of supporting Soldiers.
"2010 has been another difficult year for our Army (that is) fighting two wars," Donald said.
"This tournament is one way to say "thanks" to our Soldiers and their Families."
Overall, the more than 100 golfers and corporate sponsors raised more than $30,000. Providing for current Soldiers is one reason Joel Slagle, Stanley Associates program manager, said he played in the tournament. Stanley Associates, Slagle said, has been a regular sponsor of the tournament.
"Our business is to support the DoD, especially the Army," he said, adding involvement in the tournament allows the company to support in more ways than one. Slagle, who retired as a lieutenant colonel after 21 years in the Army, said his time in the Army made him support the event as an individual.
"I've been there myself.
I know the importance of supporting Soldiers," he said.
Although Donald said the tournament is an excellent way for veterans to give back to the current generation, it wasn't just veterans who felt the need to give back.
Master Sgt. Douglass Nelson, mobilization NCOIC, 3rd Medical Development Support Command G-3, was among a number of Soldiers taking to the links to lend support. Nelson played with fellow Soldiers Master Sgt. Jessie McNair, tactical communication forces NCO, U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) G-6; and Maj. Paula Martin, readiness officer, FORSCOM G-3.
"AUSA has been with the military a long time," Nelson said. "It is a non-profit that takes care of Soldiers."
The day was a success and was another example of the commitment of military and local communities to the Army, said Donald.
"It was a good thing to do for our Soldiers and their community," he said.
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