We have heard and used the phrase in the past, "you just had to be there," but it's the best way to properly describe this wonderful day at the Parkland Golf Club for the Liberty Mutual Invitational. Where do we start with the magic? How about 82 degrees, sunny, and wind slightly out of the east at around 10 MPH. It got better from there.

Our vote for "Hero of the Day" was SSG Brian Mast. He came out early to warm up and get his game in order and drew the respect of every person on the range. His ability to strike the ball solidly and consistently was utterly amazing.  

Roger "Rocket" Clemens was on hand and was able to meet Fanconi anemia first hand through our National Spokesperson Christian Collins. This was a magical moment for two superstars to shake hands.

What a better way to kick off a golf tournament than with United States military legend, 4-Star General George W. Casey Jr. as the opening speaker. Despite getting a call Sunday evening that all flights out of D.C. were canceled due to snow and freezing rain, General Casey's son Ryan called and said "General was not going to be denied on this one." With an early rise of 0300 and a drive from D.C. to Baltimore, General and Ryan Casey boarded a flight to deliver on their commitment to the event in Parkland.

NBA superstar Eddie Jones found a few new friends to shop with during the silent auction. Christian and Calen warmed everyone's hearts all day and provided a unique life changing perspective.  

Following golf and to summarize what the day was about, General Casey addressed everyone with what was possibly one of the most inspiring speeches anyone has heard. As the retired Chief of Staff of the US Army, everyone was captivated by his patriotic presentation. Especially telling of his love for this great country and the people who serve was his story about the band he wears daily in remembrance of SFC Randall L. Lamberson, 1/506 Infantry, 101st Airborne Division.  KIA 10 April 2006, Ar Ramadi, Iraq.

We doubt anyone in the room will ever forget the presentation from Phil Taylor and the American Fallen Soldiers Project. We honored the Bohall family, Tim, Marla, and Tyler with a presentation of a portrait of their lost son, Thomas.

There were simply no words when the painting of Thomas was unveiled. Phil captured perfectly the essence of this great young man and his family was greatly moved by the tribute.

Whether you were a player, a sponsor, a volunteer, or someone just watching, this was one great day and event. We are immensely grateful for all of your assistance to our event, and we humbly and respectfully thank you.