The Shelby (N.C.) Police Department and Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office are each $12,500 wealthier thanks to the joint efforts of VFW Post 4066 and the Deer Brook Golf Club, both in Shelby.
Some 120 golfers turned out for a tournament held on Sept. 23, raising $25,000. In addition, some 90 law enforcement officers were fed a free lunch at the Deer Brook Restaurant.
“It was an honor to host this tournament,” Auxiliary President Roger Vassey said. “All involved were very appreciative.”
Cleveland County Sheriff Alan Norman told the Shelby Star his department will use its donation to purchase more bullet-proof vests designed to stop high-velocity rounds.
The Shelby Police Department, which lost Officer Tim Brackeen in the line of duty on Sept. 12, was not yet sure how their donation would be spent.
Post Commander Gene Ramsey said this is the inaugural tournament for law enforcement. He added that the Post has had great success in sponsoring golf tournaments in the past.
In May, it hosted its third tournament to benefit all autistic children in Cleveland County schools. Nearly $35,000 was raised.
Photo caption: Members of VFW Post 4066 in Shelby, N.C., eat with law enforcement officials on Sept. 23 after a Post-sponsored golf tournament that raised $25,000. The Shelby Police Department and Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office each received $12,500.
By Janie Dyhouse, associate editor, VFW magazine