Since 2011, the Regions Tradition has generated some $2.6 million for organizations such as Children’s of Alabama to provide much-needed services. But beginning Wednesday and throughout the duration of the Regions Tradition, held at Shoal Creek Country Club near Birmingham, another group is being honored for the service they’ve provided to our country.
Just down the beautiful fairway on the 14th hole at Shoal Creek is a tent topped with an American flag – Patriot’s Point. Inside, you’ll find men and women who have given of themselves by serving in the armed forces. The VIP viewing station is provided free to active and retired military by Xtreme Concepts, Inc.
“We had more than 100 members of the military and their families here on Wednesday,” said Landon Ash, CEO of Xtreme Concepts. “And we’ll be here all throughout the tournament.”
This year, all active and retired military personnel and their families can receive free grounds admission to the Regions Tradition. And admission to Patriots Point is also available – when purchasing tickets online or by presenting identification there.
On Wednesday, members of the military served as caddies and pin attendants. “It was lots of fun for the cadets, and other military. The players and the celebs all go out of their way to thank them, talk to them. It’s a really big honor and a treat,” said Chris Tanner, UAB ROTC executive officer and member of Shoal Creek. “We wanted a way to say thanks for their service and let them be a part of the tournament.”
Steve Wolff, a Vietnam veteran from Birmingham, was at Patriot’s Point on Thursday. Sitting in the shade with a cool drink, he added, “I think it’s a great thing to provide this. It means a lot to all of us.”
J.T. Newsome, a reserve Coast Guard member and employee at Regions, was at Patriot’s Point enjoying a bit of relaxation before going to drill over the weekend. “It’s a rare thing to get to experience an event of this caliber, this way,” he said.
For more information on military appreciation at the Regions Tradition, visit http://www.regionstradition.com/military-appreciation.php.
May 14th, 2015