George W. Bush tees off with PGA President to support Patriot Golf Day

DALLAS -- George W. Bush, 43rd President of the United States, teed it up once again to mark the official start of the fifth Annual Patriot Golf Day weekend (Sept. 2-5). Bush kicked off Patriot Golf Day weekend by playing golf Thursday morning at Dallas National Golf Club with PGA President Allen Wronowski, Major Dan Rooney, a former F-16 fighter pilot and founder of Folds of Honor Foundation; and Major Ed Pulido, a veteran who lost his leg in service to his country.

For the second year, President Bush is serving as the honorary chairman for the nationwide promotion that raises funds for educational scholarships for the children and spouses of military men and women disabled or killed while serving our great nation.

"I think it is very important for our country to support our military, guys like Major Ed Pulido, who lost his leg in combat," said President Bush. "I am pleased to be the honorary chairman of this group, and I am pleased to be able to combine a passion such as golf with a fund that helps our military.

All of you golfers out there who are playing this weekend need to make sure to give an additional dollar to help our vets…that is the least we can do."

Throughout Labor Day weekend, thousands of golf facilities across the country are hosting events and encouraging golfers to add $1 or more to their greens fees. Over the past four years, more than $8.9 million has been raised and more than 2,100 scholarships have been awarded through the Folds of Honor.

"I can't think of a better way to begin Patriot Golf Day than playing with a true patriot like President Bush," said Rooney. "He has always been an incredible proponent of our military service men and women and we are honored to once again have his support as we work to ensure that no families are left behind when it comes to education."

This year more than 4,100 golf courses across the country will participate in the effort, which is jointly supported by The PGA of America and the United States Golf Association. To find a participating course near you or make a donation, visit PatriotGolfDay.com.