By Greg Johnson

A field of flags, a 21-gun salute, and free admission welcome and honor all those who have served their country in the Armed Forces during the Memorial Day Weekend as Harbor Shores Golf Club hosts the 2018 KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship on May 24 through May 27, 2018.

The PGA of America, in partnership with KitchenAid, have arranged for fans entering the Championship to be greeted by the Avenue of Flags lining the entrance in tribute to past and present American Heroes. Individual flags will also be on display at the Field of Flags, located inside the course, creating a panorama of red, white, and blue that attendees are invited to experience and enjoy. Commemorative flags are also available for purchase with proceeds going to support Lest We Forget.

“With the Championship being over Memorial Day weekend each year, it is important that we continue to honor our troops. We hope attendees will visit the Field of Flags display and attend the 21-gun salute that takes place on Sunday of Championship week,” said Ryan Ogle, championship director.

“It is important for golf fans, both in Benton Harbor and those watching at home, to remember those who served and sacrificed their lives for our country. We are proud to have a small part in that remembrance,” Ogle added. 

On Sunday, May 27, members of the North Berrien Military Rites Team will present the country’s colors, play TAPS, and fire the 21-gun salute at approximately 7:30 a.m.  Members of the Whirlpool Veterans Association will also serve as Hole 17 volunteer marshals and receive limited-edition KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship military uniforms provided by PGA REACH.

All Active Duty, Military Retirees, Active Reserve, National Guard, Department of Defense Civilians, and their accompanying spouses, will be admitted free of charge to the Championship.