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Golf tournament to benefit military charity

EmeraldCoast.com
02.06.08

DESTIN ­ For the third consecutive year, The Sterling Companies is teaming with sponsors such as Earl and Karen Durden, C.W. Roberts Contracting, Inc., The St. Joe Company, Coastal Marine Management, the Freedom Alliance, founded by Lt. Col. Oliver North (Ret.), Kelly Plantation Golf Club, and Bay Point Resort to host the Freedom Classic golf tournament and fundraiser honoring America's servicemen and women.

The event, set for Tuesday, Feb. 19 in both Panama City and Destin will bring together more than 500 members of the armed forces, as well as state and community leaders for a day of golf, festivities, and a chance to honor America's military. The four-on-four tournament and fundraiser will be played at the Nicklaus Design course at Bay Point Resort in Panama City and at the Fred Couples Championship Course at Kelly Plantation in Destin with most participants being exceptional soldiers from each branch of the military chosen by their respective commanders.

The Classic, always held the day following President's Day, is the brainchild of Sterling Companies Chairman Buddy Runnels. Originally begun to honor former U.S. Air Force Col. H.H. Hurt, the Classic last year raised $5,000 for the Air Force Enlisted Widows' Village, a charity providing homes and financial assistance to widows of enlisted Air Force members. This year's beneficiary will be The Fisher House Foundation, an organization that builds "comfort homes' on the grounds of military and Veteran's Administration medical centers to aid military families attempting to stay near loved ones who are receiving medical treatment.

"Two things we hope to accomplish with the Freedom Classic is to honor the brave men and women who wear the uniform of our country with a day of free golf, fun, food and festivities," said Runnels. "At this time in our country's history I think no one would argue that our military has been charged with a difficult and important mission. This is a way for our community to show them we appreciate their service.

"At the same time we will raise money to assist The Fisher House Foundation, a group that is doing great work in easing the burden of military families in what can be their most stressful times."

For information on helping sponsor the Freedom Classic or for more information contact Lisa Rudd at (850) 269-8233 or visit www.FreedomClassic.net.

More than 500 active-duty soldiers expected for third annual event

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