SILVIS, Ill. — On Friday, July 5 at the John Deere Classic, organizers took a few moments to honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
It was a part of the JDC's first-ever "Folds of Honor Friday," made possible through a partnership between the tournament and nonprofit. Folds of Honor provides scholarships to family members of fallen or disabled military service members and first responders.
Spectators were encouraged to wear red, white and blue all day at the course. In addition, the JDC offered free admission to active, retired, or veteran status military members and one guest.
During the morning, Folds of Honor pins and ribbons were handed out at the Main Gate. People gathered near the #1 Tee for a flag-raising ceremony, complete with a flyover and a singing of the national anthem. A ceremonial tee shot took place as well.
Liz Brees, a scholarship recipient and spokesperson for Folds of Honor, was at TPC Deere Run as part of the events. She lost her father, Raymond O'Hare, at just three years old when his jet crashed during pilot training in 2000. 14 years after his death, Folds of Honor gave her a helping hand.
"Folds of Honor has not only given us financial help throughout college, which helped me achieve my dreams of becoming a doctor, but they are really like a family to us," Brees said. "With Folds of Honor, my dad's name is spoken almost every month at least. It's in newsletters. His photo is out there. So it's a way to remember him, honor him and get to know him better."
Brees is now in medical school in a program through the Air Force, where she is currently a second lieutenant in the Individual Ready Reserve. After graduation, she will serve as an active-duty Air Force physician, remembering her father every step of the way.
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