A rare opportunity to play one of Maryland’s most exclusive golf courses became two memorable days of connection, conversation and support for America’s Special Operations Forces community.
Operation Healing Forces recently welcomed guests to the Anne Arundell Mannor Golf Tournament and Benefit Dinner, an experience that included a two-night stay at the Annapolis Waterfront Hotel, two days of golf at Anne Arundell Mannor and an intimate evening dedicated to supporting the mission and impact of OHF.
Located in Harwood, Maryland, Anne Arundell Mannor is a privately owned, 18-hole course designed by renowned golf course architect Arthur Hills. Set across hundreds of acres in Anne Arundell County, the course sees extremely limited play, making an invitation to step onto its fairways a truly unique experience.
That opportunity was made possible through the generosity of Bill and Mary Stone. Bill opened Anne Arundell Mannor to OHF and its guests for this exclusive tournament, with proceeds supporting programs that serve wounded, ill, injured and fallen Special Operations Forces service members, veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors.
An Evening Centered on the OHF Mission
Following the first day on the course, guests gathered for a benefit dinner with OHF National Advisory Council member, Mary Paige Kurilla, serving as Mistress of Ceremonies. OHF CEO Kerry Irvin shared an overview of Operation Healing Forces and the impact of its programs across the Special Operations community.
Guests also heard from OHF alumnus and Retreat Program Manager Jeff Tannery, who offered a perspective few people can share: first experiencing an OHF Therapeutic Retreat alongside his wife, and now leading retreats for other Special Operations Forces couples.
Jeff spoke about the difference the retreat made in his own relationship and what he continues to witness through his role with OHF. “I have watched couples arrive at the beginning of a retreat sitting beside each other, but emotionally miles apart,” he shared, “And I’ve watched them leave holding hands.”
His words offered a meaningful look at what happens beyond the numbers. OHF Therapeutic Retreats create opportunities for couples to reconnect, strengthen communication and build relationships with others who understand the unique experiences of the Special Operations community.
The benefit dinner continued with a fireside chat featuring OHF CEO Kerry Irving and General (Ret.) Raymond “Tony” Thomas, former Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command and a member of the Operation Healing Forces National Advisory Council.
Then came a surprise.
General Thomas invited his friend and tournament teammate, Vice Admiral Frank “Trey” Whitworth, USN (Ret.), to join the conversation.
What followed was an insightful and candid discussion between two experienced military leaders. The conversation covered topics ranging from artificial intelligence and an evolving world, to the next generation of service members and what the future of military service may look like.
Guests had the opportunity to ask questions directly, turning the fireside chat into an engaging exchange that brought leadership, experience and different perspectives into the room.
More Than a Round of Golf
With beautiful weather and Anne Arundel Manor as the backdrop, the two-day tournament brought guests together for an experience centered on connection, camaraderie and support for the Special Operations Forces community. Congratulations to the first-, second- and third-place teams who took home this year’s trophies!
Operation Healing Forces is incredibly grateful to Bill and Mary Stone for generously opening Anne Arundell Mannor to OHF once again, and to the course staff for creating such an exceptional experience for every guest.
Special recognition also goes to the OHF team who brought the event together: Kerry Irvin, Desiree Holley, Courtney Bilyeu, Maggie McCleland, Jeff Tannery and Kelsey McCabe.
To everyone who traveled near and far to join Operation Healing Forces, thank you for being part of two meaningful days in support of America’s Special Operations Forces community.
Together, experiences like this help Operation Healing Forces continue Creating Bonds That Cure.
