Falling rain and gray clouds rolled over the Virginia Beach National Golf Club causing water-filled golf cart seats and puddles between the small hills that dotted the course. This weather did not stop members of the Navy Supply Corps Foundation, Hampton Roads Chapter, from competing in their semi-annual fundraising tournament, Nov. 2, 2018.

The tournament takes place every spring and fall, providing the opportunity for supply officers to network both professionally and socially.

Cmdr. Kelly House, the supply officer onboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), organized the most recent tournament.

 “We really appreciate everything the George Washington has done,” said Capt. Rick Wilhelm, assistant chief of staff for logistics (N41) of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command. “It’s great to get the active duty and retired supply officers together for events such as this. It builds camaraderie.”

The tournament began with the foundation members meeting in the club house and socializing over food and drinks. Eventually everyone made their way outside and found their assigned golf carts. They loaded up their clubs, then listened for the introduction and rules. Once all the participants were ready, they sped off to their first tee.

About half an hour into the tournament, the rain let up, boosting the group’s morale. After a few hours of golfing and some friendly competition, lunch was provided for those in attendance.

In addition to participants, some local companies came to support the event and gave a portion of the proceeds to the Supply Corps Foundation.

“The foundation itself is for active duty and retired supply officers and enlisted supply ratings,” said Lt. Cmdr. Chris Sands, George Washington’s assistant supply officer. “But there were non-military-related people there as well.”

Eighty-four people from different commands all across Hampton Roads ended up attending and supporting the tournament.

Participants could buy raffle tickets for the chance to win prizes, with the voucher proceeds going toward the fundraiser.

“They had a lot of prizes,” said Sands. “Golf clubs, gift cards for places like the Museum in D.C., and tickets for things like the Norfolk Admirals hockey games.”

He also said they had multiple winners for first, second, third, and last place—the latter of which won a free mini golf pass.

This event offered more than meeting people and prizes, though.

“The event is for fundraising and providing money for the big initiatives of the foundation,” said Sands.

Since its founding, the foundation has awarded over $4.5 million in scholarships to 2,165 dependents and descendants in the supply corps community. Sands also said the foundation recently provided $10,000 in memorial scholarships for children of members who were killed while on active duty.

The non-profit’s motto is “taking care of our own,” and they exhibit that by seeking to uphold the long-held traditions of the Navy Supply Corps and increasing morale throughout its community.

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