Time is flying! In two months, we will celebrate those who served our nation with honor at the 2025 Will of Iron Golf Classic in observance of Veterans Day. Our 100-player field will enjoy a full day of first-class golf, contests, performance by Southern Junction, and community celebration to fund the Will of Iron and Birdies of Eagles Golf Programs. When: Friday, November 7, 2025 Where: Cimarrone Golf Club, Saint Johns, FL. Shotgun Start: 1:00 p.m. Cost Per Player: $300 If you want to sponsor this event or our mission for a year, text 904-832-1586 or visit https://willofironforvets.org/sponsors/ We also appreciate prize donations or in-kind items for the silent auction. This event is possible thanks to our Title Sponsors: Zellner Insurance Agency and Monarch National, and Gold Sponsors American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier ARC TOTE, Amports, and SecureSI. (fb)

We were pleased to meet Michael Cortes, U.S. Army Veteran back in June. He received a set of new golf clubs and his first lesson from Jim Ragland at TPG Golf Performance Center. Then last Saturday, we met his beautiful girls: wife, Luisa Fernanda, daughter, Antonia, and service dog Maya. Luisa and Antonia joined our Will of Iron and Birdies of Eagles golf programs, respectively. Michael shared the following biography: "I began my journey in the United States Army as an 11B Infantryman, stationed in North Carolina. From day one, I knew I was part of something bigger than myself. I deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan, operating alongside some of the Army's finest light and heavy infantry units. It was in those early years that I learned the value of grit, discipline, and the unbreakable bond of brotherhood. As my career evolved, I transitioned into the role of an 88M, a Wheeled Vehicle Operator. This shift brought new challenges and responsibilities, including another deployment to Afghanistan different in mission but equally vital in purpose. One of the highlights of my service came during the 3½ years I spent as a cadre. Training, mentoring, and shaping the next generation of soldiers was the most fulfilling chapter of my career. It gave me purpose and pride beyond the battlefield; those were truly the best years of my life. After over eighteen years of duty, I retired honorably, though not quietly. Music was a healing path and a way to transition, but my mission was far from over. Today, I continue to serve, this time as a Human Resource Specialist supporting our state's soldiers and veterans. Though I've traded in my boots for a desk, my commitment remains the same: to always stand ready, to support, and to serve. "Always Ready" We salute Michael for his committed service to our nation. We are also grateful for the service of his son, currently in the Army National Guard. This military family embodies the devotion that strengthens our armed forces. Our mission is possible thanks to Zellner Insurance Agency and Monarch National Insurance Company. If you want to support our mission become a sponsor of the 2025 Will of Iron Golf Classic scheduled for November 7 at Cimarrone Golf Club in Saint Johns Florida. Visit the website to learn more https://willofironforvets.org/you-can-help/ #thankyouforyourservice #Veterans #MilitaryAppreciation #SupportOurTroops #NeverForget #MentalHealthAwareness #VeteransMentalHealth #YouAreNotAlone (fb)