Last modified Wed., April 11, 2007 - 04:23 PM
Originally created Thursday, April 12, 2007

Tree dedication honors former USO director

By Kaylee LaRocque, Editor

The winning team of the annual USO Golf Tournament, from left, Jamie Kennedy, Jason Ryals, Jack Yontz and Scott Biernacki. The team scored a 52 net. Photo courtesy of the USO

Family and friends of former USO Executive Director Bob Coonan gathered for special tree and plaque dedication April 5 at the NAS Jax Golf Course. Coonan passed away in February 2004. Coonan, a retired Navy captain, served his last tour on active duty as NAS Jax executive officer. The event began as members of Navy Band Southeast played the national anthem, followed by a special blessing by NAS Jax Command Chaplain. Cmdr. Michael Mikstay.

After recognizing family members, Greater Jacksonville USO Executive Director K.C. McCarthy said a few touching words. "As this tree grows, we will always remember Bob. I know that Bob loved the USO and did some remarkable things during his short time here. I work very hard to carry on his tradition and legacy," said McCarthy. "We are out here today for the four annual golf tournament and it's hard to believe that it's been three years since we reinaugurated this tournament in Bob's honor. It was certainly a pleasure to do that. I know that Bob meant so much to every single one of you. He also means a tremendous amount to the USO staff and it's our privilege to carry on this tradition."

The ceremony closed as the Navy Band played the Navy Hymn and family members were invited to walk up and read the plaque mounted underneath the oak tree.

Chris - I know that Bob is up there right now grinning. He's just loving this. He loved to play golf and loved the USO. It's such a nice tribute to him. We really appreciate it all," said Coonan's wife, Chris.

The next event of the day was the annual Bob Coonan Memorial Golf Tournament which raised more than $42,000 for the USO, as dozens of active and retired military personnel and members of the community competed in the event.

This new plaque and tree were officially dedicated at the NAS Jax Golf Course in memory of retired Navy Capt. Bob Coonan who served as executive director of the USO until his death in February 2004. Photos by Kaylee LaRocque

The event kicked off with shotgun start at 144 golfers made their way to their designated starting hole. "This tournament raises funds and also raises an awareness about the USO in our community. We look for members of the community to play in this tournament because we rely on their contributions to support the USO's programs and operations," explained McCarthy. "We have a full field today. After the tournament we have a big dinner and awards ceremony planned."

''The event turned out to be our most successful yet. It really takes a lot to put this together each year,'' added McCarthy. ''The Greater Jacksonville Area USO Council would like to thank the NAS Jacksonville Golf Course, NAS Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Chip Dobson and the many volunteers for all the support they provided, and we are looking forward to next year's tournament."

Carey Coonan Pickering helps her daughter, Emily touch an American flag placed near the plaque dedicated in remembrance of their father and grandfather, Bob Coonan during the annual golf tournament sponsored by the USO April 5.

Family members of retired Navy Capt. Bob Coonan who also served as executive director of the Greater Jacksonville Area USO, gather together to remember him during a special dedication at the NAS Jax Golf Course April 5.