Pfeifer Wins Inaugural Warrior Open


Chad Pfeifer, a retired Army veteran and May 2011 graduate of the Golf Academy of America in Phoenix, was awarded the championship trophy of the first-ever Warrior Open by President George W. Bush on October 11 at Las Colinas Country Club in Dallas.

Chad Pfeifer Congratulated by President Bush

The Warrior Open was a two-day golf tournament hosted by President Bush to honor the men and women who served America honorably and were severely wounded during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

After receiving the trophy from President Bush, Pfeifer said, "It's an honor to win the inaugural Warrior Open; but to all of our brothers and sisters who paid the ultimate sacrifice, this one's for them."

On April 12, 2007, while serving as a part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Pfeifer's truck was hit with a pressure plate IED that resulted in the amputation of his left leg above the knee. While recuperating from his injury, Pfeifer, a Corporal in rank, picked up golf as a form of therapy and fell in love with the game.

Pfeifer then attended Golf Academy of America (http://www.golfacademy.edu) where he received an associate degree in Golf Complex Operations and Management. He is now pursuing a career in golf and is working his way through the PGA Apprentice Program in Scottsdale as an assistant golf professional at Tatum Ranch Golf Club.

"The purpose of the Warrior Open is to celebrate those who have served our country, and to remind our fellow citizens how fortunate we are to have men and women volunteer in the face of danger," said President Bush. "I knew I would be impressed by the courage of our warriors. I will tell you this tournament has exceeded my expectations."