Barstow Marine Corps Logistics Base, California

The Tee and Trees Golf Course is a 9-hole, Par 36 course located next to the Marine Base.  The designer is unknown and it first opened in 1956.

 

  The entrance to the golf course is located just before the main gate and requires going through a culvert under the railroad tracks.  Just follow the signs and you’ll be there with no problem.  This is truly a desert golf course.  The tees, fairways and greens are Bermuda grass surrounded by desert landscape.  The layout of the golf course is next to railroad tracks and can be a little distracting.  I have played at a lot of military golf courses and many are average or above average.  But this golf course is just what a rough and tough marine needs. It is definitely for the true die hard golfer.

 

 

The golf course is also open to the public.

Twentynine Palms Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, California

The Desert Winds Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 72 course located on the Marine Base.  The course measures 6,930 yards from the back tees, with a rating of 73.4 and a slope of 126.  The course was designed by Jeffrey Young and was first opened in 1966.

The golf course is a championship rated course that is located in the southern California high desert among the palm trees, clear air and incredible sunny weather.  The course has water in play on six holes and the only golf course for 50 miles.  The fairways are lined with Palm trees and lush bushes and some of the best scenic views of the surrounding mountains.  Very enjoyable and challenging.

The golf course is open to the public.

Marine Corps, Air Station Miramar, California

The MCAS Miramar Memorial Golf Course is an 18-hole, Par 72 golf course that measures 6,811 yards from the back tees with a rating of 73.0 and a slope of 132.  The course was designed by Jack Daray Jr. & Kennith Welton and first opened in 1964.

 

Bill and I found the golf course to be a long, straight and wide open layout. It is known for having the best greens in the entire county.  It was in excellent condition and challenging.  The first few holes will lull you into complacency but then the fun begins, with some tricky Par 3’s, old trees that guard the gtreens and some holes along the highway.  So straight golf shots are a must

This golf course is also open to the public.

G.M.   Robert A. Knight

Monterey Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, California

The Monterey Pines Golf course is an 18-hole par 69 golf course that is near the Navy base in Monterey, CA.  The course is 5,554 yards from the back tees with a rating of 66.7 and a slope of 107.  The first 9 hole of the course were designed by Robert Muir Graves and opened in 1963.  Previously known as “Naval Postgraduate School Golf Course”.  Expanded to 18 holes in 1972 and renovated in 2009 by Mac Messier.

Known by the local golfers as “The Navy Course”, this short layout is perfect for the beginner golfer or the avid golfer to build confidence and practice.  It has two lakes, water hazards and bent grass greens that are some of the best in the area. They are hard, fast and true.

The golf course is also open to the public.

Beale Air Force Base, California

The Coyote Run Golf Course, formerly known as Recce Point Golf Course is an 18-hole Par 72 course that measures 6,824 yards from the back tees, with a rating of 72.3 and a slope of 128.  The course first opened in 1959 as a 9-hole course and was designed by Ronald Fream.  In 1998 Ronald Fream designed the back 9 holes.

The course is a “Prarie” course with quiet wildlife.  It has many trees that can affect your next shot and the fairways are a bit rough.  There are many narrow fairways and the elevated greens make for a challenging  and a relaxing round of golf.

The course is for the military and is open to the public.

Course G.M.            Kenneth Yuson       

Travis Air Force Base, California

The Cypress Lakes Golf Course is managed by the Air Force but is located outside the north gate in Vacaville, California.  This 18-hole, Par 72 course measures 6,873 yards from the back tees with a rating of 72.7 and a slope of 125.0.  The golf course opened in 1960 and was designed by Joe Finger and Bob Putman.

We found the golf course to be a straight, flat layout with trees, bunkers and hazards.  The greens were in great condition but a little slow.  It is a challenging course and it’s important that the golfer keep the ball in the fairways.

Cypress Lakes G.C. is operated for the military but is open to the public.

Dir. of Golf.              Gary M. Pucckett

Scott Air Force Base, Illinois

The Cardinal Creek Golf Course is an 18-hole, Par 72 course that measures 6,453 yards from the back tees.  The course was designed by Gary Kern and opened in 1968.

We played the golf course and found it a fairly flat layout with wide open fairways.  The greens are small and medium speed.  There are three lakes that come into play on a few holes and the wind can be a major concern.  Many of the golf course fairways are alongside the major runway but the noise is minimal.

The Cardinal Creek Golf Course is for the military and their guests.

Great Lakes Naval Station, Illinois

The Willow Glen Golf Course is located near the base and is an 18-hole, par 71 course that measures 6,642 yards from the back tees. The course is rated at 72.1 and with a slope of 128, although the designer is unknown, the course first opened in 1950.

I  have played this golf course many times and found it fairly flat with some small hills and mounds.  Most of the holes are well bunkered and the greens are average in size, fast, and undulating.  The fairways are lined with large mature trees that are spaced apart with open spaces and the rough is thick and deep so accuracy is a must with many risk/reward opportunity and doglegs.  There are many water hazards and grassy areas that come into play on several holes.  The course is enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels and a real bargain for golf in the area.

The golf course is also open to the public.

Meridian Naval Air Station, Mississippi

The Ponta Creek Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 72 course that measures 6,595 yards from the back tees, and has a rating of 72.3 with a slope rating of 127.  The golf course first opened in 1964 but unfortunately the designer is unknown.

This very scenic course has some rolling terrain that can cause uneven lies, but most of the terrain is flat.  The fairways are mostly wide open, and there are only a few sand bunkers.  The greens are average size and some of them are undulating.  There are ponds and creeks that come into play on five holes.  This course is a challenge for golfer of all skill level and very enjoyable.

The golf course is also open to the public.

United States Air Force Academy, Colorado

The Air Force Academy has two outstanding golf courses on the Academy grounds:  The Eisenhower Blue Course and the Eisenhower Silver Course.

The Blue Course-is an 18 hole championship course  This par 72 course measures 7,301 yards from the back tees with a rating of 73.6 and a slope of 135.  The course was designed by the great Robert Trent Jones Sr. and first opened in 1963.

I played this course in the fall and it was in excellent condition.  It is the most challenging of the two courses.  There are long holes, wide fairways, doglegs, bunkers, good seeded greens and water on one hole.  The layout has no two holes the same with the most amazing wildlife throughout the courses.  The greens are as tough as they come.  The beautiful mountain views and tall trees are just majestic.  This is a must play and probably the best in the Air Force inventory.

The Silver Course, another 18-hole par 72 course also on the Academy grounds, measuring 6,510 yards from the back tees with a rating of 70.6 and a slope of 127.  The course was designed by Frank Hummel and opened in 1977.

This course is easier on your game, with light bunkering and three holes with water.  But it’s still demanding with a premium placed on accuracy rather than length.  A great mountain course with elevated tees and sloping fairways which can get very tight.  Remember all putts break away from the mountains. 

Both the Blue and the Silver golf courses are well worth the trip and the price and are open to the military and their guests only.

China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, California

The China Lake Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 72 course that measures 6,912 yards with a rating of 72.4 and a slope of 125.  The course was designed by William F. Bell and first opened in 1956.

The golf course is a pinnacle for golf in the high desert.  China Lake is in a beautiful valley setting with many water and sand hazards. The course was built on flat terrain but is still very challenging and is a great golfing experience in the desert.

The course is for the military only and their guests.

Fort Carson, Colorado

The Cheyenne Shadows Golf Course is an 18-hole par 72 course that measures 6,919 yards from the back tees with a rating of 73.0 and a slope of 135.  The course was designed by Dick Phelps and was opened in 1971.

I played the course in the fall and it was not in its best condition.  This course has a challenging but fair layout, with wide open fairways and fast greens.  There are  some really fun and straight forward holes.  This is a great test for all skill levels at a good price.

This golf course is for the military and the public also.

Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station, California

The Naval Golf Course, Sea Beach is located on Orangewood Avenue in Cypress, California.  There are two courses: The Destroyer Course, an 18-hole par-72 course and the Cruiser Course, a 9-hole course.

The Destroyer Course measures 6,780 yards from the back tees with a rating of 72.8 and a slope of 129.  The designer and opening year are unknown.  I found the course to be tough but fair.  Definitely challenging as there are many doglegs and water hazards on several holes.  Kikuyu rough makes finding the fairway a must.  The greens are small, fast and true. The course is a great course for golfers that like to walk.

The Cruiser Course measures 2,020 yards from the back tees.  This is a very enjoyable course, a great layout and good length.  Bunkers are in good shape with very good greens.  This is an excellent course for beginners.

Both golf courses are open to the public. 

Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois

The Rock Island Arsenal Golf Course is one of the oldest in Illinois. The course is somewhat unique in that it’s surrounded by a military installation and everyone must pass through a security gate to access the golf course. This 18-hole, Par 71 course measures 6,585 yards from the back tees, with a rating of 71.2 and a slope of 124.  Although the course designer is unknown, Colonel Stanhope E. Blunt was the founder of the golf course and the course first opened in 1897.

The course is a straight layout with bent grass greens that are medium in speed and size. The course features majestic tree lined bent grass fairways that ramble along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River.  The many scenic views make this a golfing experience you won’t soon forget.  The golf course is also listed in the “National Historical Register”.

Although the course is on a military base, the public is welcome.

G.M.   Todd Flowler

Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado

The Silver Spruce Golf Course is an 18-hole par 72 course on the Air Base.  The course is 7,124 yards from the back tees with a rating of 71.5 and a slope of 132.  The course was designed and built by Air Force Engineers but the opening date is unknown.

We played the golf course in the fall and the views of the mountains and the trees that were starting to change colors made the round very enjoyable.  The course is a straight layout with trees, bunkers and some water hazards.  The fairways are wide, open and flat. The course will reward golfers that can keep their shots in the fairway.  The course is designed for all skill levels and a good test of one’s ability.

The golf course is open to all military and there guest only.

G.M.   J. Trace Kea

Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington

The Gallery Golf Course is an 18-hole, Par 72 course that measures 6,332 yards from the back tees, and a rating of 70.2 with a slope of 122.  The golf course was first opened in 1948 but the designer is unknown.

The course overlooks the Puget Sound and features spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.  I found the views of the ocean to be outstanding.  The terrain is predominately flat on the front 9 holes with wide open fairways. The back 9 holes are hilly, tree lined and have several water hazards.  The course has sand bunkers located throughout.  The greens are small, undulating and very fast.

The golf course is also open to the public.

G.M.   Mike Fields

The Truth about Military Golf Courses

The question on every American’s lips, especially in recent weeks, is “How is the government going to get out of debt and get back on track with spending?” Between the partial shutdown, debt-ceiling talk, decreasing funds for Social Security, etc., the American people are concerned about what Congress is going to do about money in the foreseeable future.

One of the many issues that have been raised surrounding the financial situation of the government has to do with the seemingly gratuitous spending of valuable taxpayer dollars on military golf courses – thought by some to be a luxury not available to the civilians who supposedly pay for them.

The military operates and maintains around 234 golf courses worldwide – 184 of them located in the continental US, Hawaii and Alaska.  But where does the money come from?  Are they funded by civilian taxpayers or are the individual golf courses self-supported?

An article by Christopher P. Ryan, a freelance writer based in the mid-Atlantic, talks about the draining of millions of dollars from the U.S. budget to pay for the maintenance of these military golf courses.  “Though parts of the Department of Defense’s budget are clearly essential to national security,” Ryan states in his article, “many other defense expenditures are far from necessary — including the reported 234 golf courses that the Department of Defense maintains around the world, at a cost that is undisclosed.” Agreeing to stop supporting the military’s golf courses should be an easy first spending cut for [President] Obama and [House Speaker] Boehner.”

Ryan also references a Salon.com article written by Laura Gottesdiener titled “7 Absurd Ways the Military Wastes Taxpayer Dollars,” number five being “Military Golf.”

Unfortunately the actual facts tell a different story!  In 1984, all military golf courses were removed from appropriated funds from the government budget.  After that, all military golf courses must be self-supporting and all Army golf courses are operated by MWR (morale, welfare and recreation).  In some cases, the courses may be supplemented with non-appropriated funds.  Non-appropriated funds are monies generated within the services through sales at the Exchanges, movies, sports usage fees, snack bars, service clubs, etc.  It is money that is not appropriated by the Congress or the pentagon’s budgets.  These courses are supported by Army Regulation 215-1.  This regulation governs: course operation, advertising, access, pricing and usage of non-appropriated funds.  For more information please contact the Director of Golf at the military golf course near you or contact the Golf Program Manager, US Army IMCOM G9. 2455 Reynolds Rd. Bldg #2266, 3^rd. Fl. Fort Sam Houston, TX. 78234-1222   For an example: in June 2013, the Pelican Point Golf Course at Tyndall AFB FL. had to close because it wasn’t self-supporting.

The military golf courses are not free.  Everyone, military or civilian, pays a green fee, cart rental, range balls and other extras.  The green fee rate is determined by the serviceman’s rank.  The Sr. enlisted pays more than the Jr. enlisted; the Jr. Officer pays more than the Sr. enlisted and the Sr. officers pay more than the Jr. Officers.  The more money you make, the more you pay.

Civilian access.  The majority of military golf courses are open in one way or another to the public; there are different types of access.  The state of Arizona has three military bases with golf courses, Luke AFB, David-Monthan AFB and Fort Huachuca. Each base has specific access requirements and processes.

Luke Air Force Base.  The Falcon Dunes Golf Course is located off the military base and is operated by the military.  It is only open to active military, retired military, DOD civilians and their guests.

David-Monthan Air Force Base.  The Ballachard Golf Course is located on the base and is open to the public.  Civilians must stop by the security office and show their driver’s license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration. They will then be issued an access pass to the golf course.

Fort Huachuca.  The Mountain View Golf Course is located off the base and is operated by the military and is for the military and is open to the public.

The military golf courses are a benefit to the active service members, retired service members, and DOD civilians and in many cases, open to civilians in the surround areas as well.

 “Gratuitous spending of valuable taxpayer dollars on military golf courses” is a myth seemingly believed by some.  The U.S. budget is not being drained by the maintenance costs of these golf courses.  The majority are self-supported facilities and operated by MWR.  So let’s get the facts straight and find another way for this country to get out of debt.

Please remember to follow the rules on a military golf course.

By:      MSG. John L. Zook (Ret)

Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming

The Warren Golf Course is an 18-hole par 72 course located at F.E.Warren AFB, Wyoming.  The course measures 6,729 yards from the back tees with a rating of 69.7 with a slope of 114.  The course is flat with many trees and sand bunkers and wild life.  I played the course in July.  You often see deer and antelope in the fairway and rough and at the tee boxes.  The course is known as the best golf value in the area.

This military golf course is open to the public.

Director of Golf      Carroll C. Sharrett              307=773-3556

Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama

There are two golf courses at Maxwell AFB.  The River Course and the University Course.

The River Golf Course:  This 18-hole, Par-71 course measures 6,245 yards from the back tees, with a course rating of 69.8 and a slope of 120.  The course was designed by Joseph Finger and is the older of the two courses.  The course runs along the banks of the Alabama River and is in a flood plain.  Both courses can play to your liking depending on your selection of tees, with four sets of tees.  We played the course in January and it was in excellent condition.  This is an above average course with many elevation changes.

The University Course:  This 18-hole, Par-72 course measures 6,917 yards from the back tees, with a course rating of 72.9 and a slope of 125.  The designed is not known or is the opening date.  The course is very flat and generally straight and wide and above average, with 10 holes with water on them and tree lined fairways.  The varying degree of difficulty promises a memorable golf experience for all.    Both golf courses are maintained by Federal inmates at the federal prison camp on the base so just remember that the guy mowing the grass is a federal felon so be careful with miss hits.

This military golf course is open to the public.

Coronado Naval Base, North Island Naval Air Station, California

The Sea ‘N Air Golf Course located at the North Island NAS, California is an 18- hole par-72 course, .that measures 6,382 yards from the back tees with a rating of 70.3 and a 117 slope.  The course was designed by Jack Daray and opened in 1959.  The course was renovated by Jack Daray and constructed by his son Halsey Daray.  

The Sea ‘N Air Golf Course is the only course in the San Diego, besides Torrey Pines, that sits right on the Pacific Ocean and is the only golf course to play at sea level.  The signature hole is #14.  We found the greens fast and undulating, soft, and a challenge.  The aircraft overhead add to the ambiance of the course.  It’s the sound of freedom to all ex-military everywhere.  As we played the course, we enjoyed the spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean along the back 9-holes where you'll practically play next to the shoreline.

This is a military golf course and is for military personnel and there guest only.

Director of Golf.     Jim Higgins   619-545-6959

Edwards Air Force Base, California

Muroc Lake Golf Course is the course at Edwards AFB.  This 18-hole par 72 course measures 6,915 yards from the back tees, with a rating of 73.5 and a 129 slope over 185 acres.  The course was designed by William F. Bell and was open for play in 1967.  The golf course blends natural desert beauty with well-maintained greens to create an enjoyable 18 hole championship golf course.  The course which features fast greens and manicured fairways is surrounded by desert landscaping, allowing local golfers another great golf course.  We also had a great breakfast.

This military golf course is open to the public.

Director of Golf      Howard Kuroda      661-275-7888

Fort Rucker, Alabama

The Silver Wings Golf Courses originally started as an 18-hole, par-72 course, with the existing Red and Blue courses.  The course measures 6,825 yards from the back tees and is rated at 72.8 and a 125 slope.  The course was designed by Elis Maples and in 1965 the course was opened for play.  In 1992 an additional 9 holes was opened for play and designed by D.M. Tarks.  The 9 hole course (White Course) measures at 3,346 yard.

The three golf courses, (Red, White and Blue) have outstanding champion Bermuda greens and one of the most challenging layouts with numerous hardwood and pine that gently roll through scenic elevation changes.  All three courses have subtle differences.  The Red and Blue courses are straight forward while the White course has more target areas to hit.  Many of the holes are flat and wide open.  With three 9 hole courses, golfers can play any two courses for an ever changing layout.

This Military Golf Course is open to the public.   

Quantico Marine Corps Base, Virginia

Medal of Honor Golf Course is located at Quantico MCB, Virginia. The 18 hole course is a par 72 that measures 6,729 yards, with a rating of 72.8 and a 131 slope.

 This historic golf course, originally called “The Officer Club Golf Course” opened in 1930 as a six hole course built by Marine Corps Construction Personnel.  Ernest Stanley completed the first expansion, to 9 holes, in 1934.  In 1940 the course was expanded again by Stanley, to 18 holes.  The course was renamed the Medal of Honor Golf Course, in the memory of Marines who have been awarded the nation’s highest honor.

The course has become a popular retreat for Commander-In-Chiefs, starting in the 1950’s with President Dwight Eisenhower.  Presidents Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, George H. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Oboma have also spent time at these tees.

The course is a tight layout, placing a premium on shot-making in order to avoid mature trees, sand bunkers and water lining the sculptured Bermuda fairways and well protected small greens.  Shot selection is the key in order to enjoy your round at this old style course.  The course is fantastic and is a must play if you are in the area.

The course is open to the public.

G.M.   David Hansiger       703-784-2424

Patrick Air Force Base, Florida

Manatee Cove Golf Course is a picturesque 18-hole golf course at Patrick Air Force Base, Florida.  It is located between the Banana River and the Atlantic Ocean.  It covers 260 acres and is shared by many wild animal species.  The par 72 course is measured at 6,808 yards from the back tees, with a rating of 71.9, and a 123 slope. The course, which opened in 1950, was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.  In 2002 the course was renovated by Tom Fazio, with the greens being reconstructed in 2007 by using a new sea shore grass called Paspallum.

The first tee is alongside the Manatee Cove of the Banana River and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to see a few manatees.

The golf course is on a military installation and is open to the public.

G.M.   Jody Clor       321-494-4653

MacDill Air Force Base, Florida

Bay Palms Golf Courses at MacDill AFB, FL. Consist of two 18 hole golf course:  The North Course and the South Course.

Bay Palm South.  This course is an 18 hole par 72 course that measures 6,768 yards from the back tees, with a rating of 72.2 and a slope of 121.  The South course opened for play in 1986 and is one of the most scenic and challenging course that I have played in the Air Force.   In addition to astoundingly beautiful views of the bay, the course boasts elevated greens, many water hazards, and large lakes and ponds. There is also an abundance of natural vegetation, such as palms, mango groves, and live oaks.

Named Best Golf Course in the Air Force in 2002, the course is challenging and well worth the trip to southern Florida.

Bay Palm North.  The North course is the older of the two courses. This 18 hole par 72 course measures 6,446 yards from the back tees, with a rating 70.4 and a slope of 120.  Also known as “Paradise by the Bay”, this course offers yet another opportunity to experience great views of the bay, trees and vegetation.  There are some water hazards, but the course is relatively flat with fast greens.

While Bay Palm North is less challenging than the south course, the player experience is equally enjoyable and visually appealing.

 

This military golf course is for the military and there guest only.

Fort Belvior, Virginia

There are two 18 hole golf courses located at Fort Belvior, VA. The Gunston Course and the Woodlawn Course.

Gunston Course:  The 18 hole par 72 course measures 6,854 yards from the back tees with a rating of 74.1 and a slope of 135.  The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and it opened for play in 1948.  These courses were built on hilly terrain and have narrow fairways lined with many trees that can affect your shot. We noticed a slight slant to the terrain on many holes, small greens are slightly sloped.  The water comes into play on hole #2.

Woodlawn Course:  The 18 hole par 72 course that measures 6,781 yards from the back tees with a rating of 73.9 and a slope of 133. Opened for play in 1995, this course was designed by Tom Clark.  The signature hole is Hole #2.  A green protected by two large sand bunkers requires players to choose between two downhill fairways for the approach in order to achieve the par 4.

  

  This Military Golf Course is for Military and there guest.

Fort Campbell, Kentucky

The Cole Park Golf Course is an 18-hole championship course covering 350 acres on prime real estate.   This par 72 course is 6,843 yards from the back tees with a rating of 72.3 and a 124 slope. The designer is unknown and was opened in 1947.  In 1970 the course was renovated by Larry Packard.  The first 11 holes have several dramatic elevation changes then back to flat terrain for the final 7 holes.

Bent grass greens, Bermuda fairways, mature trees lining the course, and scenic views with elevation changes make the course excellent for golfers of all skill levels.

Cole Park Golf Course is a military facility that is open to the public.  Please call for rules and regulations.

G.M.   David Normand                  (270) 798-4906       

Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii

Mamala Bay Golf Course is an 18-hole course, par 72, measuring 6,868 Yards from the back tees, with a rating of 71.9 and a slope of 129.  Opened in 1965 and designed by BoB Bollack.  It has Bermuda grass on fairways and greens, tree lined fairways and ocean front views on four holes.  All in all, this course has beautiful views and settings.

Hickam Air Force Base shares the main runway with Honolulu National airport so there is a continuous line of various military aircraft and commercial aircraft taking off during your round of golf.  It is hard to beat Mamala Bay with its view of the Pacific Ocean, Mamala Bay and Diamond Head plus a front row seats at a free air show.

Mamala Bay Golf Course is a typical golf course that you would find in Hawaii.  It has wide open fairways, palm trees, ocean breezes and flat greens.  The course layout is designed so that golfers of all skill levels will have a very enjoyable experience. Please put this course on your must play list while in Hawaii.

Ke’aloh Golf Course is a 9-hole course, par 27 that measures 1406 yards with no rating or slope.  The golf course is designed with light so golfing at night is available. This 9 hole course is a great place for families, beginners, warm up, cool down or just practice.

Pearl Harbor, Hawaii

The Navy Marine Golf Course is another 18-hole, par 72 course that was designed by William P. Bell and opened in 1948. It was built with Bermuda grass on fairways and greens.  The course was revised by Robert M. Lohmann in 2006 and now measures 6,754 yards from the back tees with a rating of 73.4 and a slope of 123.

The course is wide and open so miss hits can be recovered with some easy.  It’s an excellent course with considerable Hawaii beauty in and around.  The course is very well laid out and is set up for golfers regardless of skill levels.  It is very enjoyable and relaxing to play and known for its central location and well maintained layout and great scenery.  A must play course when in Hawaii.

The Barber Point Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 72 course that is located in the Ewa Beach area on Essex Road.  The course designer is unknown  and opened in 1960, measuring 6,754 yards from the back tees and has a rating of 73.4 and a slope of 123.  The course is very flat and easy to play if you stay in the fairway.  If you hit wide you will be in big trouble.  The course is laid out in the woods and is an easy course to walk and a beautiful and enjoyable experience.

Both are military courses and the military has priority, but are open to the public on a first come, first serve basis.

Hill Air Force Base, Utah

The Hubbard Golf Course is an 18-hole course at Hill Air Force Base, Utah.  This par 72 course is 7,137 yards from the back tees and is rated at 72.6 and has a slope of 121.  The course was designed by Stanley W. Hadden & Lee Stotern and was first opened in 1952.  The course was renovated and the first 9 holes opened in 1961, with the second 9 holes completed in 1962.

Hubbard Golf Course has been voted the number one golf course in the Air Force for the last two years.  The golf course has hilly, tree lined fairways.  Many sand bunkers have been incorporated into the course design, plus water hazards come into play on two holes.  With views of the mountains and the main runway at Hill AFB, and numerous beautiful scenic views, the course is an enjoyable golf experience.

Hubbard Golf Course is open to military and guest only.

G.M.   Tony Angelico         (801) 777-3272

Scholfield Barracks, Hawaii

The Leilehua Golf Course is located between Wheeler Army Air Field and Mililami Tech Park and is known as one of the premier golf courses in the state of Hawaii. This 18-hole, par 72 course is 6,916 yards from the back tees and has a rating of 72.2 with a 129 slope. Designed and built by Army Corps of Engineers and Walter J. Nagorski, it opened for play in 1945.  The course was renovated in 2011 by Mark Miller of Miller Designs, with new greens, tree complexes, sand bunkers and cart paths.

The Leilehue Golf Course is the army’s premier golf course. With sweeping views of the mountains, the course is layed out and is surrounded in a lush and tropical setting with scenic views of Oahu, large trees, and mountains.  The golf course challenges all skill levels with its rolling greens, picturesque fairways and stunning scenery.  The renovation of the golf course is now complete.

Leilehua Golf Course is open to the public but the military has priority.

Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona

The Blanchard Golf Course is an 18-hole par 72 course that is located at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in southern Arizona.  The course measures 6,611 yards from the back tees and has a 70.6 rating with a 128 slope.  Designed and built by Air Force Civil Engineers, the course opened for play in 1961 with Bermuda grass on the fairways and greens surrounded by Arizona’s desert landscaping, mountain views and a large air craft storage facility.

In the last few years the greens and tee boxes have been improved. However, it is still a flat desert golf course with some water on three holes and a lot of sand.  Play this golf course before you play Falcon Dunes at Luke AFB.  This course is great for beginners and a fine facility for practicing your game.

The golf course is open to the public.  Just ask the guards at the main and after a security check a pass can be granted.

Fort Huachuca, Arizona

The Mountain View Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 72 course at historic Fort Huachuca, a national landmark in the high desert country.  The course was designed by Ed Collett and opened for play in 1945, measuring 6,879 yards from the back tees and a rating of 71.9 with a 126 slope.  In 1970 the course was renovated by Art Sneider.  At an elevation of 5,300 feet, the scenic mountain views, desert landscape and desert wild life make this course very enjoyable and relaxing.

The scenic 18^th hole is a great finishing hole with beautiful scenic views.  The course has few sand bunkers, but it does have numerous grass bunkers.  A lake and creek come into play on hole #4.

 

The golf course is located off the post and is opened to the public.

Fort Shafter, Hawaii

The Nagorski Golf Course located at Fort Shafter, Hawaii, a 9-hole, par 34 course that measures 2,837 yards from the back tees.  The course opened for play in 1925.  Nested in the foothills of Fort Shafter Valley, the course is a perfect place for the beginner to learn the game as well as for the seasoned golfer to keep their game honed.  It is still a challenge with its undulating fairways, dramatic elevation changes, small greens and breath-taking views of downtown Honolulu and Diamond Head.

The 9-hole course is a Military Golf Course and is also open to the public.

WALTER JOSEPH NAGORSKI

August 4, 1917 – May 5, 1986

This golf course is named in honor of WALTER JOSEPH NAGORSKI who served the army golf community in Hawaii for 42 years.  Walter, a lifetime member of the P.G.A., arrived in Hawaii in 1944 as a Private First Class assigned at Scholfield Barracks.  While still in the army, he began to apply his golf talent by providing golf instruction and assisting in the management of the golf program.  Following his discharge and having fallen in love with the island lifestyle, Walter remained and became the golf professional at the Fort Shafter Golf Course.  He served at Fort Shafter for 25 years and was a friend to all golfers from private to general officer. Throughout the years Walter gave unselfishly of his time and talent for the good of golf.  He was a consultant on the design and construction of the Leilehua Golf Course (1946-1949).  He started the first junior golf program in Hawaii in 1947, calling it the “Ice Cream and Soda Pop” tournament.  He was the driving force in getting full recognition for Hawaii’s golf professionals in the P.G.A. (1975).  He encouraged young men and women to take an active role in the Turfgrass Association of Hawaii.  He redesigned the Fort Shafter Golf Course in the 1950’s and 1960’s, lengthening and strengthening the character of the golf course.  He Became the Ground Superintendent of all three Army golf courses in 1972 and soon became an expert in that field. Through sheer determination, study and pure hard work, he became a leader in the Turfgrass field in Hawaii.

            The United States Army Support Command, Hawaii and the United States Army Western Command were pleased to name this course in honor of WALTER J. NAGORSKI, a proven professional, a citizen/soldier and a leader in the army and civilian community of Hawaii.

Vandenberg Air Force Base, CA.

The Marshallia Ranch Golf Course is one of the top rated golf courses among the active military bases. Located between Vandenberg AFB and the Santa Maria mountains, the grounds include the 167 year old Marshallia Ranch House.  This is championship course, in the coastal mountains of California. It is challenging, peaceful and beautiful, with fairways cut through the wooded terrain.  Designed by Bob Putman, the course opened in1958 with rye grass.  The 18 hole course is 6845 yards from the back tees, par 72, with a 73.4 rating and 130 slope.

The course is absolutely beautiful, with excellent maintenance. Wildlife is abundant with songbirds, coyote, deer and maybe a wild boar.  When I played the course in March, we had some serious fog in the morning with blustery ocean winds and frequent patches of golf ball-grabbing ice plants. The staff was very helpful.  The clubhouse is fully stocked with the latest logo fashions and equipment. The facility also includes a snack bar, large dining and patio area, and men and ladies locker rooms. The driving range is convenient to the clubhouse. Oh, did I mention that the Marshallia Ranch House is available for Temporary Military Living?  Marshallia Ranch is a definite course to replay soon.

Manager:   Tracy Bowles       805-73401333         Tracy.Bowles@vandenberg@af.mil

Luke Air Force Base, AZ.

The Falcon Dunes golf course is an 18-hole, Par-71 course at Luke Air Force Base and is one of the top five in the Air Force inventory.  A Gary Panks design that has Bermuda grass, was opened in 1998, at 6,611 yards from the back tees, with a rating of 71.7 and slope of 130. It’s an outstanding golf oasis in the Arizona desert. Home of the 56^th Fighter Wing an F-16 training facility, golfers have a front seat to a private air show of one of our country’s long standing fighter aircrafts. 

 Falcon Dunes is located just north of the base on Northern Avenue in the Phoenix Arizona area with breathless views of mountains to the west and typical native desert landscaping that line each hole throughout the course.  The course is maintained to championship quality standards and should be high on the list of must play military courses.

General Manager:          Steven Leonard 623-535-933       steven.leonard@luke.af.mil

Falcon Dunes Web Site:                                   www.lukeevents.com

Camp Pendleton, California

The Marine Memorial Golf Course is an 18-hole course, Par-72 course that measuring 6,855 yards from the back tees.  The course was designed by William P. “Billy” Bell.  The course opened in 1947.  With a course rating of 72.5 and a slope of 130.

The Marine Memorial Golf Course is a hidden jewel located in the Windmill Canyon with rolling foothills and mature trees.  The course weaves its way through native trees and bushes, and over and around streams.  The course varying degree of difficulty promises a memorable golf experience for both the novice and the experienced golfer alike.  The course has many beautiful mature trees with breath taking views.  The best word I could use to describe it is Majestic.  This is a shot makers course, with narrow fairways, tree lined greens, heavy rough and a lot of character.  The scenic view and elevation changes make this course a memorial round of golf and a must play.

Kaneohe Bay Marine Corps Air Station, Hawaii

The Klipper Golf Course was opened in 1949 as a 9-hole course administered by the U.S. Navy. It was designed by William Bell, and Leon “Lee” Pounders supervised the construction.  In 1952 the course became part of the Special Services Recreation Facilities with the U.S. Marine Corps. .  In October 1957 the Commanding Officer of the now Marine Air Station thought the golf course should be improved to 18 holes. Working with surplus and salvaged materials and designed by Jimmie Ukauka the course was reopened in July 1958.  With 18 Holes of Bermuda grass and palm trees, this Par 72 course measures 6,559 yards from the back tees, a rating of 71.0 and a slope of 130.  It is a challenging course for all skill levels.  Very little has changed on the course we know today.  The only problem I had with the course was concentrating on my game given all the beautiful views of the ocean and beaches.

The Klipper Golf Course is located on the Mokapu Peninsula, one of the most aesthetic places on Oahu in terms of natural beauty.  It is steeped in Hawaiian tradition.  The first 12 holes are wide and if you hook or slice you have a chance to recover even with the many trees and bushes. The 13^th hole is just outstanding and known as “HOME OF THE BEST HOLE (#13) IN THE DOD.” The 14^th and 15^th holes are equally as outstanding. The last three holes slowly return you back to the clubhouse.  The course was in excellent condition and the staff will make sure that your golf experience is of the highest quality. Replay this golf course at every opportunity.

 The Klipper Golf Course is open to the public but active military have priority.

G.M.: Todd Murata                       todd.murata@usmc-mccs.org