Day turned to night, but the energy never wavered at Sweetens Cove Golf Club. On June 22, golfers, PGA Professionals, and military heroes united for the third Operation 24 fundraiser, a signature event for the Tennessee PGA dedicated to changing veterans’ lives through the game of golf.
Operation 24 represents a powerful promise: Stay up for those who stood up. This unique golf event brings together PGA Professionals and amateurs to support PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) the flagship military program of PGA REACH. PGA HOPE introduces golf to veterans and active duty military personnel with disabilities to enhance their physical, mental, social, and emotional well being through free programs led by adaptively trained PGA Professionals.
Since its inception in 2023, the fundraiser has continually evolved its efforts to generate resources for PGA HOPE local programs. The dedication of the Tennessee golf community has translated into substantial impacts over time.
Funds raised through this campaign goes toward future veteran programs, ensuring that the therapeutic benefits of the program remain free of charge for those who served. The 2026 edition featured a shift in format, pivoting to a multi-wave tournament structure. The event hosted three sold out, 18-hole waves that played the fairways of Sweetens Cove at 8:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 8:00 PM. The evening wave offered participants a true bucket list experience: the rare opportunity to play one of the country’s most celebrated nine-hole courses under the lights.
The reason why belonged to the 12 veteran representatives traveling from PGA HOPE programs across the state of Tennessee. Stations were set up at designated holes, giving participants a meaningful chance to connect and hear first hand stories of the PGA HOPE impact. The veterans were not just there to talk, they were there to play. Teams had the chance to use the veterans’ shots on these select holes, directly contributing to their overall team score.
Ultimately, this incredible day would not have been possible without the collective effort of the community. A massive thank you goes out to all of the participants who signed up and braved the weather to play. Everyone was grateful to the PGA HOPE Veterans in attendance on such a special day, hearing the powerful impact stories will inspire others and ensure that the vital mission of PGA HOPE continues to thrive.
Deepest appreciation also goes to Matt Adamski, PGA, and the phenomenal staff and facility at Sweetens Cove for being such wonderful hosts and providing the perfect backdrop for this event. Finally, a huge thank you to the generous partners, whose support brought this day to life from the fantastic tee gifts donated to the spectacular lighting that gave the unforgettable opportunity to play under the lights. Everyone came together to support such a great cause and made this a truly remarkable event.
View Photos from the 8am wave HERE.
View Photos from the 2pm wave HERE.
View Photos from the 8pm wave HERE.