Golf in Iraq
When we think of desert golf, we think of Bob Hope, the Palm Springs area and maybe that putt by David Duval to shoot 59. But to some Americans, it’s a very different story.
Our guest on our KNBR radio show on March 10th is Adam Barr from The Golf Channel, who first told the story of Army Chaplain Captain David Sifferd, a college classmate of his. While in Iraq, Captain Sifferd decided to build a golf driving range as recreation for the soldiers.
The story was about the need for golf balls and clubs because they couldn’t just run down to “Mario’s Golf World” when they needed something. I decided to help out, and boxed up some old golf balls and a few books to support the troops.
They need more golf balls because of the risk of snipers and mines…they don’t pick the range as often as your local driving range.
If you want to help out, Capt. Sifferd will be heading home soon, but you can send them now to:
Ch (Cpt) Tim Kersten
POTF-IZ
Unit 42169
APO AE 09342-2160
Sending something using the APO address is very reasonable through the U.S. Postal Service.
Another unit, the 426th Forward Support Battalion which is part of the 101st Airborne Division, built a golf course they call TPC at Mosul, South Course. The PGA-Tour was made aware of this one-hole golf course and has sent some equipment to help the cause. They hope to extend the course as well.
It’s nice to know the game of golf may be helping our troops…and you can help the cause as well. We appreciate Adam Barr and The Golf Channel for their time and for making us aware of the story.