The Generational Salute and the Importance of Supporting Our Veterans

By John Binkley

11/03/2021

November is a month of special significance for our team at Generational Group.

Of course there’s a lot to look forward to – Thanksgiving feasts, wonderful family gatherings, and the countdown to the holidays. But one day in particular captures our attention above all others: November 11, Veterans Day.

It is the day that we honor the brave men and women who have served and defended our country throughout history. To pay tribute to the courage displayed across our armed forces, and show our respects for those who have sacrificed to protect our way of life.

It is a day worthy of celebration and reflection, but at Generational we also see it as an opportunity to directly support the veterans that loyally served our nation. That is the foundation behind “The Generational Salute – A Tribute to Our Troops”, our annual fundraiser to mark this important occasion.

The Generational Salute

Since 2015, Bent Tree Country Club in Dallas, Texas has hosted an annual event to honor our incredible servicemen and women. Our associates at Generational share this enthusiasm to commemorate our veterans, so it was a perfect fit for our firm to act as the title sponsor of this event once again.

The Generational Salute brings together two of my own personal passions – golf and charity. I consider golf the game of a lifetime; it takes a lifetime to learn, and it can be enjoyed for a lifetime.

So, what better way to raise awareness and much-needed funds for our country’s post-9/11 veterans than a good-natured golf tournament, welcoming participants both locally and nationwide?

Unfortunately, many of these veterans require more than the Veterans Administration is able to give them to support their needs. This includes:

• Housing
• Ramps and equipment
• Service dogs
• Mental health care
• PTSD care
• Traumatic brain injury care

This is why The Generational Salute is such an important date on my calendar. We raise crucial funds for organizations that can directly help our veterans with their day-to-day requirements, in a way that everyone participating can get behind.

What we’re doing for 2021

Our 2021 Generational Salute is one I have been especially looking forward to, as we will welcome two special guests: legendary 18-time major championship winner Jack Nicklaus, and former pro golfer and respected interviewer David Feherty.

Back in March, Generational Group formed a three-year strategic marketing alliance with Nicklaus and his company. This brought together two brands with closely aligned core values, particularly in relation to integrity, focus, preparation and giving back.

Having the “Golfer of the Century” join us for this year’s tournament is a huge privilege for us. Nicklaus is highly regarded for success both on the golf course and in business, and the support of Nicklaus and Feherty will no doubt help us to raise as much as possible for veterans throughout the U.S.

This year’s Generational Salute takes place November 10th and 11th, hosted at both the Bent Tree Country Club and Maridoe Golf Club in Dallas. The highlight of Day One will undoubtedly be the VIP celebration dinner, where Feherty will host a Q&A-style interview with Nicklaus.

This will be followed by a live auction, where attendees can bid for memorabilia and experiences, with funds raised going to selected veteran’s charities. Then, on Day Two, there will be an opening ceremony paying tribute to our veterans, followed by a full day of golf for all participants.

Giving back to our veterans

Historically, our previous Veterans Day events have raised substantial funds for several organizations, including over $200,000 in 2019. For 2021, we are excited to be supporting four outstanding veteran’s foundations:

Folds of Honor

Folds of Honor is dedicated to providing educational scholarships for the spouses and children of fallen and disabled service members, ensuring that their sacrifice does not hinder those who bear their legacy.

Feherty's Troops First Foundation

Feherty's Troops First Foundation develops and operates wellness, quality of life and event-based initiatives for post-9/11 combat-injured veterans, from the provision of housing and service dogs, to establishing connections among veterans to form valuable support networks.

Defenders of Freedom

The primary goals of Defenders of Freedom are to provide care and transitional support for troops and veterans, covering assistance with basic living necessities, short-term emergency financial support, imminent physical and mental health issues, and treatment protocols for those affected by traumatic brain injuries.

Northern Texas PGA Hope

Through the medium of golf, Northern Texas PGA Hope works to help current and former servicemen and women, introducing them to the sport to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional wellbeing.

Each of these foundations plays a crucial role in improving the lives of those who sacrificed and served our nation with pride, ensuring they can live with the dignity and comfort that they deserve.

Across our associates at Generational, this is something we are all incredibly passionate about. Being able to directly support the amazing efforts of these foundations through The Salute is of the utmost importance to our team, and something we never take lightly.

“It is a privilege and a joy to come together as we honor these amazing men and women who have served our country so faithfully.” – Ryan Binkley

How you can help

At Generational, we are committed to giving back and making a difference in the lives of those in our local communities and across our country. Our associates readily contribute their time and talents, as well as raise funds for a range of charitable causes.

I hope that this has illustrated the significance we place on Veterans Day in our own organization, and that this occasion motivates you to do your part to help those who resolutely defended our nation. While it is great to use this date to remember and celebrate our brave armed forces, using it as inspiration to take meaningful action can make a huge difference.

If you would like to directly participate in or contribute to The Generational Salute 2021, I encourage you to contact Neal Feibel at nfeibel@aol.com or 469-438-7476. There you will learn everything you need to know about this event and how you can support it.