Friends Of American Lake Veterans Golf Course

05/24/2026

05/23/2026

The 2026 “Rotary in the Community” initiative by the Federal Way Rotary Club brought together civic leaders, veterans organizations, local businesses, and volunteers for the “Field of Honor Memorial Day 2026” event in Federal Way. The event honored America’s veterans and those who made the ultimate sacrifice through a collaborative community tribute centered on remembrance, service, and patriotism.

Emceed by by Bob Forbes, the recognition program highlighted presenting sponsors Jack & Linda Butcher and Dr. Jerry Mixon, along with community partners including IHOP Federal Way, Print Solutions, Academy of Kempo Martial Arts, and Life Point Law. Government and public service partners included the City of Federal Way, Mayor Jim Ferrell, Bill Vadino, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Sumner High JROTC, whose color guard presentation and youth leadership participation helped elevate the ceremony.

The event reflected the broader tradition of “Field of Honor” memorial displays held nationwide during Memorial Day weekend, where communities gather to honor veterans, active-duty military, and fallen heroes through patriotic ceremonies and volunteer engagement.

In the spirit of the ceremony, remarks echoed sentiments similar to those shared by Sam Williams, our fearless leader, during his speech about the American Lake Veterans Golf Course and his experiences: “You live by the mission, the structure, and, above all, the people.” He also reflected on the powerful connection veterans feel when gathered together, describing it as “that familiar, undeniable energy.” Those words captured the heart of the Federal Way memorial event — a community united in gratitude, remembrance, and service to others.

Thanks Mary Forbes and Ravi Nagaich for helping bring this event to fruition, along with the whole of Federal Way Rotary. and the many volunteers who helped assemble the whole event, including a sit down pancake breakfast!

05/08/2026

The ALVGC will be closed on Monday, May 11th and will reopen on Tuesday, May 12th.

The back parking lot will be paved on Monday.

See you back out there on Tuesday.

04/11/2026

🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

The American Lake Veterans Golf Course (ALVGC) has served as a place of healing since 1955—offering wounded and disabled veterans a therapeutic, ADA-accessible environment rooted in dignity, recreation, and community. Operated entirely through volunteer leadership and community support, the course receives no federal or state funding, yet continues to stand as a national model for veteran-focused rehabilitation through golf.
Home to a signature back nine designed by Jack Nicklaus, ALVGC provides specialized equipment, instruction, and a welcoming space for veterans navigating physical and emotional recovery.

Today, the course faces a critical infrastructure need.

The Opportunity

ALVGC is undertaking an urgent project to transform its west parking lot and golf cart storage area from gravel to high-durability asphalt. The current surface presents serious safety risks—particularly for veterans with mobility challenges—due to uneven terrain, loose gravel, and persistent drainage issues that lead to standing water and deterioration.

This project will:

Eliminate tripping and accessibility hazards

Improve drainage through new catch basins and piping

Create a smooth, ADA-friendly asphalt surface

Provide clear striping for over 150 parking spaces and designated equipment areas

Enhance access to facilities housing 80 golf carts and essential maintenance equipment

Site preparation is already underway, with excavation and grading in progress by Evergreen Excavation. The goal is to complete paving by June 2026, in time for the 9th Annual Ken Still Memorial Tournament—a cornerstone event that brings the community together in support of our veterans.

Why It Matters

This is more than a paving project—it is a direct investment in safety, dignity, and accessibility for those who have served our country. A professionally paved surface will reduce long-term maintenance costs, elevate the overall experience for veterans and visitors, and ensure the course remains mission-ready for years to come.

A Call to Partnership

We are actively seeking partners who share our commitment to serving veterans. There is a meaningful opportunity for Miles Resources to play a leadership role in this transformation. A partial or in-kind contribution would not only make an immediate impact but also stand as a visible, lasting tribute to those who have sacrificed for our nation.

Together, we can ensure that every veteran who arrives at ALVGC is welcomed not with obstacles—but with a safe, accessible path to healing.

Sincerely, Sam
Samuel E. Williams
GM ALVGC
[email protected]
253-722-8605
COL (R), US Army

04/07/2026

RSVP extended till 4/9 18:00!

04/05/2026

When Dean shows up, he brings others with him—along with Duke, his trusted companion.

In this video, Dean Paulson of The Floor Trader of Tacoma shares how he rallied his suppliers to step up—resulting in over $25,000 in donated flooring for the American Lake Veterans Golf Course clubhouse renovation.

This is what community looks like: leadership, generosity, and action.

Because at ALVGC, it’s more than a golf course—it’s a place where healing happens. 🇺🇸

04/01/2026

At the American Lake Veterans Golf Course (ALVGC), everything we do is powered by volunteers and the generosity of our community—so we can continue serving those who served us. 🇺🇸

Today, we have a simple but critical need: we’re looking for the donation of an 8’ x 10’ storage shed.

This isn’t just about storage. It’s about safety, stewardship, and maintaining the course our veterans rely on. Our current shed is more than 15 years old and no longer meets the standards required to safely store essential turf care materials.

A new shed will help us:
✔️ Meet Washington State safety and compliance standards
✔️ Protect our environment and local groundwater
✔️ Properly care for the course that supports veteran rehabilitation

If you or someone you know—contractors, suppliers, community partners—can help us make this happen, we would be incredibly grateful.

📍 American Lake Veterans Golf Course
📞 253-589-1998
📧 [email protected]

Together, we can continue creating a space of healing, connection, and purpose for our veterans.