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A hole-in-one for one-star

Local AUSA chapter raises funds as well

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The eighth hole on the red course at Eagles Pride Golf Course is a 140-yard, par 3 challenge.

That's a fair distance to hit a dimpled ball with a diameter of 1.68 inches and weight of 1.62 ounces into a circular hole measuring 4.25 inches in diameter with one swing of a golf club.

Yet, that is what retired Brig. Gen. Oscar Hilman did during the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Captain Meriwether Lewis Chapter's recent annual ForeRTroops Golf Tournament held at Eagles Pride Golf Course.

"I used a brand new TaylorMade M4 9-iron; I had just taken it out of the plastic cover," Hilman said. "I had no idea that I would make a hole-in-one."

It is a first both for Hilman and in the tournament's history.

Accompanying the feat was a prize package sponsored by Titus-Will Chevrolet, Parkland.

A longtime supporter of the Meriwether Lewis chapter, Hilman's feat underscored the importance of the chapter and its tournament.

The Captain Meriwether Lewis Chapter of the AUSA exists to support Joint Base Lewis-McChord soldiers and their families.  

"This is our only fundraiser," explained retired Col. Stephen Myers, the chapter's president. "It represents a great opportunity to give back to our soldiers and their families, and it builds camaraderie between the Army and the local community."

As to Hilman's hole-in-one, "I thought ‘no way,'" quipped Myers with a laugh. "He is still on cloud nine."

Sponsored by a local GEICO Insurance Agent, Lakewood; America's Credit Union; Harborstone Credit Union; Nisqually Markets, Skookum; The Old Cannery Furniture Warehouse; Cannon Companies; Patriots Landing; and Titus-Will Chevrolet, Parkland, the event raised over $11,000.

"One hundred percent of what was raised goes to support our local soldiers and their families," said retired Col. Carroll Dickson. "Zero of this money goes to overhead.  And all of the work we do is done by volunteers."

As to Hilman, he could not thank his team comprised of Joe Camacho, Martin Nevor and Jesse Crisostomo enough for their support during the round of golf.

"I followed the golf tradition of buying drinks afterwards," continued Hilman. "I bought a keg of Alaskan Amber; people were so happy for me."

For individuals interested in becoming a member of the AUSA Captain Meriwether Lewis Chapter, contact Dickson at 253.566.5870 or Myers at col.stephen.myers@gmail.com.

Photo caption: Retired Brig. Gen. Oscar Hilman is congratulated by retired Col. Stephen Myers after making a hole-in-one during the recent ForeRTroops Golf Tournament sponsored by the Capt. Meriwether Lewis Chapter of the Association of the United States Army. Credit: AUSA

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