Michael Burgess: “this weekend is the Masters golf tournament, and while I am not a golfer myself, it is a big deal in the golfing world.…”

“this weekend is the Masters golf tournament, and while I am not a golfer myself, it is a big deal in the golfing world. The PGA tournament of today is carried on the shoulders of those who have gone before. Names like Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, and Lee Trevino are common household names for those of us of a certain age, but it is truly the gentleman from Roanoke, Texas, Byron Nelson, who has done more for the credible start for the sport of golf in this country than anyone else. Lord Byron, as he is known back home, will turn 95 years of age this year. He was a gifted athlete, winning two Masters Tournaments in 1937 and 1942. He won two PGA tours in 1940 and 1945, and won the U.S. Open in 1939. His true service is his generosity of spirit and his humility. In World War II, he traveled with Bob Hope and Bing Crosby on the USO tour entertaining our troops overseas. He has given over $88 million from his Salesmanship Club Youth and Family Services. He and his wife, Louise, have created an endowment fund at Abilene Christian University totaling over $15 million. He is the head of the Metroport Meals-on- Wheels, delivering services to shut-in seniors back in my district. His career as an athlete is worthy of recognition, but his service to community is indeed exemplary. For these reasons, I ask my colleagues to join me in support of H.R. 4902, the Congressional Gold Medal honoring Byron Nelson. ____________________”