Staff Sergeant Ryan Shovlain (PDGA #26931) presents the PDGA with a flag from Operation Iraqi Freedom.

In 2007, Staff Sergeant Ryan Shovlain (PDGA #26931) was sent to Iraq for his second tour of duty. Prior to his leaving, Ryan was presented with some disc golf equipment by the PDGA and Epicenter Disc Golf Services, to take with him to promote the sport in that war torn country. The PDGA and the Augusta Disc Golf Association were very happy to see that Ryan had returned safely, when he showed up on Jan. 17th to play in the Ice Bowl at the International Disc Golf Center.

At the players meeting, Staff Sergeant Ryan Shovlain presented the PDGA with a U.S. flag and a certificate from the 0410 Military Transition Team (Team Elite) that reads:

This Flag of the United States of America is presented to

Professional Disc Golf Association

This flag was transported on a combat patrol mission with the 0410 Military Transition Team (Team Elite), throughout Multi-National Division - North (MND-N), Iraq, in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM.

On 21 August 2007

This flag was provided by SSG Ryan O. Shovlain.

"Our flag honors those who have fought to protect it, and is a reminder of the sacrifice of our nation's founders and heroes. As the ultimate icon of America's storied history, the Stars and Stripes represents the very best of this nation" - Joe Barton

The PDGA is proud to have supported our troops in Iraq by providing them with a recreational activity to do during their down time. We are happy to have Ryan Shovlain back safely and we thank him and all military for their service to our country. The flag and certificate will go on permanent display at the International Disc Golf Center. Welcome back Ryan!