Honoring Service Through Golf
At McConnell Golf, we’ve long believed that the game of golf extends far beyond fairways and greens. It has the power to connect people, to heal, and to give back. Since our founding in 2003, giving back has been part of our story—from local charities and scholarship programs to initiatives that honor the men and women who serve our country.
Each year, through our Footprints on the Green program, members and staff come together to make a difference. This Veterans Day, we’re reflecting on the partnerships and programs that have supported military members, veterans, and their families—and to spotlight our 2025 companywide initiative benefiting Bunkers in Baghdad.
Bunkers in Baghdad
As we honor our veterans today, McConnell Golf clubs across our network have spent the past several days collecting new and gently used golf equipment in support of Bunkers in Baghdad, our 2025 Footprints on the Green initiative.
This 501(c)(3) nonprofit sends golf balls, clubs, and gear to U.S. troops overseas and to veterans here at home. Since its founding in 2008, Bunkers in Baghdad has shipped more than 16.6 million golf balls and 1.7 million clubs to courageous men and women serving around the world.
The effort began earlier this year with a Memorial Day campaign at the Country Club of Asheville, where members and staff came together to collect hundreds of golf balls and clubs for our troops. The generosity and enthusiasm that followed inspired us to expand the initiative across all McConnell Golf properties.
Folds of Honor
In the past, McConnell Golf has proudly partnered with Folds of Honor, an organization that provides educational scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen or disabled service members and first responders.
For several years, golf professionals across McConnell Golf properties took part in Folds of Honor golf marathons, committing to play 100 holes in a single day to raise funds for this important cause. Through their dedication, and the generosity of our members and sponsors, these past events collectively raised more than $300,000 to support the Folds of Honor mission.
The We Care Golf Classic at The Country Club at Wakefield Plantation
Since its inception in 2013, the We Care Golf Classic, organized by the Wakefield Senior Men’s Golf Association (WSMGA) at The Country Club at Wakefield Plantation, has raised over $1.1 million to support a number of military-focused organizations in the Triangle area.
Beneficiaries include the Soldiers and Airmen Assistance Fund, USO of North Carolina, Purple Heart Homes, and The Joel Fund. Beyond financial support, the tournament also provides veterans with an opportunity to enjoy a complimentary day on the course surrounded by community appreciation and camaraderie.
Operation Semper Gratus at Porters Neck Country Club
From 2021–2024, Operation Semper Gratus united the Porters Neck community and Porters Neck Country Club in hosting 200 Marines and Sailors from Camp Lejeune for Thanksgiving Day.
Of those service members, many were hosted in residents’ homes, while others were special guests of the club. In addition to a warm holiday meal, participants enjoyed the driving range, games, and other activities around the club, creating lasting memories between the Marines, Sailors, and the Porters Neck community.
PGA HOPE and Country Club of Asheville
Colton Hensley, Assistant Golf Professional at Country Club of Asheville, has inspired countless golfers and veterans alike with his story of resilience, recovery, and hope. A U.S. Army veteran, Colton returned home from deployment facing addiction, incarceration, and homelessness. His turning point came through PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere), which is a program that introduces golf to veterans and active-duty military to enhance their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Through the support of his PGA HOPE Coach, Colton rediscovered his purpose and is now a PGA HOPE Ambassador, sharing his story through national platforms such as The Inward Nine Podcast and the CBS special “PGA of America REACH Foundation: So All Can Love This Game.”
From the mountains to the coast, McConnell Golf clubs are united by a shared purpose: to give back to those who have given so much. Whether it’s through scholarships, tournaments, or donation drives, we remain committed to honoring our military community—not just on Veterans Day, but every day.
As this year’s Bunkers in Baghdad initiative concludes, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to every member, guest, and staff member who took part in supporting this cause. Together, we continue to leave our Footprints on the Green, one act of kindness at a time.
To all veterans, active-duty service members, and their families—thank you for your courage, sacrifice, and steadfast service to our nation. Today and always, we honor you.