Where USA Comes To Play
Saluting Veterans with a Special Golf Getaway on Florida’s First Coast
VISIT FLORIDA & Florida’s First Coast of Golf Honoring Veterans: 5 Military Heroes Tee Off in Northeast Florida
This Veterans Day Weekend, five deserving military veterans are experiencing the beauty of Northeast Florida and the thrill of its world-class golf courses, thanks to a special promotion from VISIT FLORIDA and Florida’s First Coast of Golf.
As one of the top golf destinations in the U.S. and home to the third-largest military community in the country, Northeast Florida is proud to honor its military heroes. In partnership with Atlanta's WKHX-FM, New Country 101-Five, the promotion invited listeners to nominate veterans who have shown exceptional dedication to their country and communities. Five winners were selected to enjoy a complimentary golf trip to the area, which includes luxurious accommodations and unforgettable golfing experiences from Nov. 9-11.
Meet the Veterans:
These brave men and women were chosen for their selfless service and deep commitment to their communities:
Alexander Fort (Lawrenceville, GA): A decorated Army veteran and three-time Purple Heart recipient who served nearly 20 years, including in Special Forces.
Jonathan Heeb (Peachtree City, GA): An Army 82nd Airborne veteran, now serving as a narcotics detective and gang unit sergeant with the Atlanta Police Department.
Christian Armstrong (Rockmart, GA): A retired Army veteran who sacrificed family time for his military service, finally taking a long-awaited honeymoon with his spouse.
Johnny Hernandez (Gainesville, GA): A former minor-league baseball player who founded Service Baseball to mentor youth and has impacted his community in profound ways.
James Sokol (Monroe, GA): A Marine veteran currently serving as a police officer in Covington, GA, dedicated to his family and community.
A Weekend to Remember:
The honored veterans will be treated to an incredible Northeast Florida experience, including stays at the luxurious Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, lunch at the iconic TPC Sawgrass clubhouse, and rounds of golf on the legendary Dye’s Valley Course and nearby Yards Course from Nov. 9-11.
In addition to honoring these heroes, the community of Northeast Florida invites veterans—both active duty and retired—to explore the region’s exceptional golf offerings year-round. Discover nearly 200 special military deals and discounts at more than 50 golf courses and accommodations throughout Northeast Florida, from St. Augustine to Jacksonville to Amelia Island.
Military Discounts Year-Round:
Active and retired military personnel can enjoy exclusive discounts on golf, accommodations, and more at locations across Northeast Florida, including the St. Augustine-Ponte Vedra Beach area, Jacksonville, Amelia Island, and Clay County. To learn more about these offers, CLICK HERE
A Community that Cares:
“Northeast Florida is home to one of the largest military communities in the country, and our tourism industry is dedicated to honoring these brave men and women,” said David Reese, President of Florida’s First Coast of Golf. “Our goal is to provide the most welcoming, hospitable destination for military veterans and their families, not just on Veterans Day but all year long.”
About Florida’s First Coast of Golf:
Florida’s First Coast of Golf is a collaborative organization that promotes Northeast Florida as one of the country’s premier golf destinations. With partnerships that span over 50 golf courses, accommodations, and tourism organizations, Florida’s First Coast of Golf strives to connect travelers with the best of what the region has to offer. To learn more, visit: Florida’s First Coast of Golf.