AFSA hosts charity golf tournament

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman La'Shanette V. Garrett
  • 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  Chapter 615 of the Air Force Sergeants Association is hosting its 23rd Annual Charity Golf Tournament Sept. 11. The event will be held at the Barksdale Air Force Base Fox Run Golf Course, with a shotgun start time of 8 a.m.

The AFSA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping improve the quality of life and economic fairness that will support the well-being of enlisted members and their families in both active and retired Air Force, National Guard and Air Force Reserve.

"We also provide support to the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps programs and many charitable projects in the community," said Senior Master Sgt. John Thomas, AFSA chapter 615 president. "Last year we donated more than $90,000 to the base and the community."

Proceeds from this year's tournament will be donated to two charities, the Barksdale Chaplain's Operation Warm Heart Thanksgiving Basket Fund and the Santa's in Blue Caddo/Bossier Child Protective Agency's Children's Christmas party.

Barksdale's Operation Warm Heart is a year-round program managed by the First Sergeants council and supported by base chapels and volunteers. It's designed to assist the needs of Airmen and their families on a case-by-case basis.

"Everyone sometimes has circumstances that are beyond their control and need help," said (Ret) Chief Master Sgt. Jeffrey Melahn, AFSA chapter 615 program trustee. "That's what Warm Heart is here for¬--to help."

The Santa's in Blue is an ongoing seasonal event sponsored by the Barksdale Top Three, which has been occurring within the community for many years. It involves Airmen handing out Christmas presents to underprivileged foster children in the Caddo and Bossier parishes as well as hosting the distribution parties for them.

Mr. Melahn stated that for many of the children these are the only gifts they will receive during the holiday season.

The tournament is open to all Department of Defense personnel, active duty, reserve, retirees and guest. The entry fee is $17 per person plus green fees and cart. There will also be prizes given away for first, second and third place teams as well as longest, most accurate drive and closest to the hole. Meal and drinks will also be provided.

"Whether you game is pro or you just have fun hanging out on the green, this charity golf tournament is a good way to give back to the base and community, no matter how you 'putt' it," concluded Mr. Melahn.

Sign up in person at the Fox Run golf course club house or for more information, call Harold Swason 949-1937, Don Beasley 868-4170, Wenzel Oesterreich 949-5778 or Chester Hinds 230-2651.