Cohasset, Mass. – More than 50 Veterans gathered at Cohasset Golf Club for the final OPERATION: PlayDay (OPD) of the season, hosted by PGA REACH New England. Each group was paired with a club member for the round, allowing guests to enjoy the full Cohasset experience.
Congratulations to the winning foursome, Bob Diramio, Chris Shaw, Hodges Brown, and Paul Renuad, who finished 3-under-par through nine holes.
Competitions were also held on several holes, including two closet-to-the-pin challenges and a long drive contest. Congratulations to:
Bill Smith – (Closest to the pin) Hole 2
John Locke – (Long drive) Hole 4
Bob Diramio – (Closest to the pin) Hole 6
Special thanks go to OPD’s presenting partner, the Side by Side Charitable Organization, and supporting partners Golf Galaxy and America’s Vet Dogs, whose generous support makes these events possible.
Sarah Blomstedt, New England program coordinator for America’s Vet Dogs, has attended every OPD event this season, often accompanied by a program representative. On Thursday, she was joined by Bob and his service dog, Wally.
During dinner and the closing ceremony in the clubhouse, Veterans watched a recap video highlighting the season’s best moments. United States Marine Corps Veteran, Bob Diramio, shared heartfelt remarks with the group.
“When I go out to play golf, I think of the guys who never made it back,” Diramio said. “When I go to hit that ball, I do it for them.”
Rick Ferguson, PGA HOPE New England Ambassador and fellow USMC Veteran, also spoke during the ceremony. He invited attendees to recognize the day’s youngest and oldest players, prompting a standing ovation for 93-year-old U.S. Army Veteran Ron Herzberg.
“One of the most important events in my life is healing other veterans through PGA HOPE.” Ferguson said. “That’s what being an ambassador is all about.”
The New England PGA Foundation expressed deep gratitude to all Veterans in attendance for their service, participation, and continued involvement in the PGA REACH community.
The Foundation also extends its sincere appreciation to Bryan Kienke, PGA and the entire staff and membership at Cohasset Golf Club for their outstanding hospitality throughout the event.