• Ken Still, 73, and Pepper Roberts, 77, offer a sanctuary for wounded warriors at American Lake GC, near Seattle
Ken Still: "I've played on Tour and in the Ryder Cup, but this is the most satisfying thing I've done in golf: giving lessons and clinics at a course for veterans. That's American history out there — men from every war going back to World War II. And to see young kids come back from Iraq with their hands and legs blown off, and then to watch them be able to hit balls is a treat. We have nine holes, and Jack [Nicklaus] is designing another nine at no charge. These men devoted their lives to this country, and this place makes them feel wanted and loved."
Pepper Roberts: "I'm a veteran of Korea. I've seen what war does to a man's body and mind. There's a sergeant here who was hit by a roadside bomb in Iraq. He dragged two men to safety, one in each hand, then looked down and realized half of his hip was gone. He came back to the States and would sit home alone, pull his shades down, and drink for hours. He came here and learned to swing left-handed because he couldn't use his left hip. Soon he was laughing with guys three times his age. He said to me, 'If it wasn't for this place, I would have killed myself.' And I don't care how old you get — you never get tired of getting a hug."
Still, far left, and Roberts, next to him, with some course regulars.
Credit: Gary Matoso
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