What began as a Flag Day golf tournament to provide recreational opportunities for disabled veterans has transformed into something much larger—a community-wide effort to support 83-year-old US Navy Vet. Robert “Bob” Pillow, whose home was devastated by a fallen tree last month.
The Appalachian Warrior Tribe, a local 501(c)(3) will host its inaugural Flag Day Golf Tournament Sunday, June 14 at Sequoyah National Golf Course, bringing together veterans, law enforcement officers, local businesses, volunteers and community members for a cause that organizers say goes far beyond the game of golf.
In a remarkable show of support, an anonymous donor recently stepped forward to cover registration fees for every disabled veteran and local law enforcement participant registered for the tournament.
Then came another opportunity to serve.
“We learned of the plight of Pillow, an 83-year-old Navy veteran whose home on Licklog Road was nearly destroyed when a large tree crashed through the structure,” said Sean Parrish secretary of Appalachian Warrior Tribe. “The damage left the residence largely uninhabitable, with utilities severely impacted and family members traveling from Florida to assist with his care and recovery.”
Ironically, the tournament takes place one day before Pillow’s 84th birthday.
As a result, proceeds from the tournament, along with donations collected throughout the day, will now be directed toward helping Pillow and his family rebuild and recover.
“This tournament started with one mission and quickly grew into another,” said Parrish. “We learned about Mr. Pillow’s situation. That’s what this organization is about — finding veterans in need, bringing people together and taking positive action. This event isn’t really about golf. It’s about honoring the oath we all took, supporting one another and proving that no veteran in our community stands alone.”
Tournament organizers plan to recognize Pillow and his family as guests of honor during opening ceremonies, while attendees will also have opportunities to contribute household goods, food, water and other essential items destined for the veteran’s property.
David and Shelley Cox of Whittier have donated an upgraded Damon Challenger 327 motor home with an attached car port to AWT.
“It was like it came out of the sky,” said Parrish. “I received the screenshot of the camper on the 20th, the same day the tree fell on Mr. Pillow’s home.”
AWT has lent the camper at no charge to Pillow until his home is repaired by volunteers to include 828 Vets of Franklin.
The day-long veterans golf event will feature tournament play, prize presentations, a silent auction, raffles and a donation-based dinner open to the public.
“Local businesses have contributed auction items and volunteers continue preparing for what we hope will become an annual tradition,” Parrish said. “This is the kind of story that reminds us what Flag Day is really about. It’s about service, sacrifice, community and taking care of our own. When neighbors come together, incredible things can happen. All proceeds will benefit Pillow and his family as they work to recover from the devastating loss of their home.”
The tournament will begin with golfer registration from 8 to 8:30 a.m., followed by opening ceremonies and announcements. Tournament play is scheduled to start at 9:15 a.m. and continue through the afternoon.
After play concludes, organizers will tabulate scores and present awards to tournament winners. A silent auction featuring items donated by local businesses will follow, along with a donation-based dinner and raffle that is open to the public.
The event will conclude with closing remarks recognizing donors, sponsors, volunteers and community supporters whose contributions helped make the fundraiser possible.
Those wishing to support the effort may register for the tournament or make a donation online by searching Zeffy Annual Flag Day Golf Tournament or emailing Appalachianwarriortribe@gmail.com