GOLF TOURNAMENT SUPPORTS LOCAL MILITARY CHARITIES BY NIKKI HOFFMAN

GOLF TOURNAMENT SUPPORTS LOCAL MILITARY CHARITIES

“Never Stop Serving.”

That is the motto of the Military Officers Association of America, boasting more than 360,000 members from every branch of service. This nonprofit organization supports policies that benefit military members and their families. Veteran support services include families and caregivers. Local youth are encouraged to lead a life of service via Junior ROTC, scholarship programs, and ongoing recognition.

The MOAA chapter of Lake and Sumter Counties includes members from The Villages, Lake, Sumter, and Marion counties. Luncheon meetings are held monthly on the second Wednesday at Eisenhower Regional Recreation Complex from January through May and September through November.

Don Hansen, LTC USA Ret., is the chapter president and event chairman for the 16th Military Charities Golf Tournament at Harbor Hills. He and his wife Karen moved to The Villages in 2016 upon his retirement from serving Uncle Sam for 44 years. He served first as an Army Judge Advocate and later as a federal prosecutor for the Middle District of Florida. They love the relaxed and activity-filled lifestyle of being retired in Central Florida.

The tournament is scheduled for Friday, April 12 at Harbor Hills Golf and Country Club. The tournament format is a step-aside scramble with a shotgun start at 1 P.M. The $100 donation per golfer includes golf, a silent auction, dinner and awards. Although the tournament is sold out, funds and sponsors are greatly needed to provide the $1000 and $1,500 scholarships to six local schools and the eight local military-oriented charities they support. To sponsor, volunteer, or participate in the dinner and Silent Auction, contact Don at 352-461-0624, email karen.donhansen@gmail.com, or visit http://www.lakesumtermoaa.org.