One of the most popular and widely attended Prowler Week events is the annual Prowler Golf Tournament. Held on Thursday this year because of a major tournament on Friday, the outing provided a much-needed break from the rigors of our squadron’s busy schedule.

Twelve Rook officers played on three four-person teams as part of the 144-person total. With a lack of sleep the previous night, the Rook teams started with coffee and doughnuts prior to the shotgun start at 8:15 a.m. Conditions were secured as teams headed for their starts on the seventh eighth holes. VAQ-137 players faired pretty well.

“We’re having a great time,” said Lt. John Wilson, just before he drove another ball into the trees. Good thing he won some golf balls at the end. Overall, the teams finished -1, +5 and +8.

“We were extremely lucky with the weather,” said Lt. Cmdr. Rich Vaccaro. “It was nearly 80 degrees with a cloudless sky. Much better than the clouds and rain for the major tournament on Friday.”

Some of the Officer Spouses’ Club members were also present to provide refreshments, medication and lunch.

“The wives were very busy and their contributions were very appreciated,” said Cmdr. Kevin Meenaghan, Rook commanding officer. “It’s part of what made this day such a great community event.

At day’s end, Rook teams finished in the middle of the pack. They weren’t first, but more importantly, they weren’t last.

All 12 team members received prizes of some sort.

“I was amazed at the number of door prizes,” said Cmdr. Mike Buchanan, Rook executive officer. “Almost everyone walked away with something. I was also very impressed that Home Depot donated so much, including many tools and lawn care equipment.”

After play, the course was cleared and maintenance began in preparation for the NORPAC tournament on Friday.

“This was such a major tournament, I thought Tiger Woods might show up,” said one player. The Rooks are also considering hosting a tournament of their own to raise money for course upgrades.

The Rooks head back to work next week as they begin Advanced Readiness Program, signifying the start of our Inter-Deployment Training Cycle.