Veteran Discounts at County Golf Courses Made Permanent

County Executive Steve Bellone was joined Legis. Jay Schneiderman, Legis. Thomas Cilmi and a dozen Suffolk County veterans on Wednesday to announce the opening of the 2014 golf season and new fee reductions for veterans and active military personnel. 

The new legislation sponsored by Deputy Presiding Officer Schneiderman, I-Montauk, expands a pilot program that makes the veteran fee reductions at county golf courses permanent.

“After one of the harshest winters on record, we gather to say goodbye to winter and hello to the 2014 Suffolk County Golf Season with new discounted rates for veterans and active military personnel,” Bellone said. “I thank Legislator Schneiderman for sponsoring this legislation to reduce military veterans’ golfing fees permanently in Suffolk County.”

“Members of the military serve to protect the freedoms of this country,” Schneiderman said. “This is one small way we can show our appreciation to the men and women of the armed forces.”

The new veteran 18-hole discounted rate for the four county hole are Monday – Friday (excluding holidays) is $17.  Saturday, Sunday & Holidays is $30.  Twilight hour rate is $11.  

“This is important because it gives veterans easier access to park facilities,” said Frank Frumento, commander of Four S Post 1635 East Islip.  “With this present economy, everyone can use a break, including us veterans.”

“The reduced rates provide a much needed outlet for Vets, to get away from the daily grind, and enjoy the four beautiful courses” said Joe Salvatore, an Air Force veteran and resident of Blue Point.

Suffolk has four county-owned golf courses each with distinct characteristics ranging from panoramic shoreline vistas to tree-lined, undulating fairways.  The four courses are Indian Island Golf Course in Riverhead, Bergen Point Golf Course in Babylon, West Sayville Golf Course, and Timber Point Golf Course in Great River. 

Each course is staffed by a PGA professional, a driving range, a practice green and a full service restaurant and catering facility.

Suffolk County veterans can contact the Parks Department at (631) 854-4949 or go to Suffolk County Park locations where green keys are sold with proper proof of residency; veterans must submit DD Form 214 (Certificate of release or Discharge from Active Duty) or Suffolk County Veteran Resident ID card issued by Suffolk County Veterans Agency.