The Players Championship Honors Military

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Damian Berg, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East, Detachment Southeast

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. (NNS) -- Continuing a PGA Tour tradition of honoring men and women in uniform, servicemembers were honored during Military Appreciation Day at The Players Club (TPC) Sawgrass May 9.

This year's theme is "A Tribute To America's Volunteers" in honor of the 375th anniversary of the United States National Guard.

Servicemembers lined the balconies of the clubhouse at TPC Sawgrass as the ceremony began with the national anthem preformed by the 13th Army Band followed by a jet flyover from the 125th Fighter Wing of Florida Air National Guard.

"This is a great reminder of everything you, as servicemembers, do for our wonderful country," said Alvin Brown, Mayor of Jacksonville. "Our military deserves a thank you everyday because of the hard work they do for our country."

It was followed by remarks from PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem, General Craig McKinley, Chief of the National Guard Bureau and PGA Tour player and two-time Players champion Davis Love III.

"Thank you for the support and it means a lot for me to be here," said Gen. McKinley, Chief of the National Guard Bureau. "It's a magnificent experience and Jacksonville truly supports its veterans. God bless the USA!"

Davis Love III followed McKinley and expressed his admiration for the day's events.

"It's a great honor to be here and participate in military appreciation day. To be around so many great people and for them to be doing such great things, it's truly humbling."

Country music star Luke Bryan helped the tournament honor local military by performing a special concert with his most popular singles.

"If it was not for you guys in uniform, we couldn't have the fun we are having today", said Bryan. "I love you guys and thank you so much."

The music performance was the final gesture of the night by the Players Championship and local community to show support.

"It's a honor to have the privilege to be here and it feels great to get noticed and appreciated," said Air-Traffic Controller Airman Adam Admill, Naval Station Mayport. "I loved the opening concert and the fly-over was awesome. I'm thankful for everyone letting us come out and enjoy the festivities."

The tournament coordinators are providing all active duty, retired, and reserve military personnel, along with their dependents, with complimentary admission to the tournament.