Special tribute planned for 9/11 10th anniversary

Seeing as how the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks falls on the final day of the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G, tournament officials faced the delicate challenge of developing a respectful way to observe the event.

What they came up with was the following:

Any active and retired service personnel, along with accompanying families, will receive free admission throughout the tournament held the week of Sept. 5 to 11 by displaying appropriate identification. Those receiving free admission include all retired and active military personnel as well as all fire, police and emergency employees.

In addition, during the final championship round on Sunday, Sept. 11, the tournament will have an Honorary Pin Flag program. The traditional pin flags on all 18 greens will feature the American flag and representatives from all four military branches as well as fire and police personnel in full uniform will serve as pin flag bearers.

Finally, at the conclusion of play on Sunday, a brief 9/11 program will be hosted by U.S. Representative, former Rogers, Ar. mayor and military veteran Steve Womack on the 18th green. This program will include a moment of silence and personal perspective from Womack.

“The 10th anniversary of 9/11 is a significant one for our country,” said tournament chairman Jay Allen. “Since our event’s final round occurs on this day, we felt a strong responsibility on behalf of the tournament and the Northwest Arkansas community to do our part in appropriately recognizing the day, and in honoring and appreciating those who will be forever connected to it.”