HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – The Patriot Golf Course is slated to open April 13, weather permitting, and the manager has been busy preparing the course for a new season of golf.
Jay Carey, 66th Force Support Squadron course manager, and a Professional Golf Association (PGA) golf pro, dreamed of being a golf pro while growing up in Westwood, Massachusetts.
“It’s every kid’s dream to play professional sports in some capacity,” he said. “But without a lot of size, I focused on golf.”
Carey’s journey as a golf pro began while caddying tournaments as a youth and playing frequently. He was on the golf (and hockey) team at Nichols College in Dudley, Mass.
After graduating college, Carey was the assistant golf pro at several courses in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
“For 11 years I worked on becoming a professional by completing the PGA requirements,” he said. “In 1997, I became a certified PGA professional.”
After working at local courses throughout the area for 10 years as a golf pro, Carey became the Patriot Golf Course manager in 2010. The course is on the grounds of the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Bedford, Mass.
“I have been working at the Patriot Golf Course for eight years now and hope to end my career at this course,” he said. “It’s the best job I’ve ever had. I love the staff, the members and my leadership.”
Hanscom’s 66th Force Support Squadron runs the nine-hole course.
“The course offers a challenging nine-hole layout for golfers of all skill levels,” he said. “We host the intramural golf program and several tournaments throughout the golf season for eligible personnel.”
Carey, who was not familiar with the Air Force prior to accepting the Patriot Golf Course position, spoke about his appreciation for the customers who play there.
“I enjoy the diversity of our customers,” Carey said. “Our customers are currently serving as members in the military, Department of Defense civilians, retired service members and disabled veterans. It’s an honor to serve each and every one of them at their course.”
While discussing his tenure as manager, Carey highlighted helping those play the game he loves.
“I was able to purchase two special golf carts to help amputees and veterans with walking disabilities play and enjoy the game of golf like everybody else,” said Carey. “While it may seem insignificant, it’s among my proudest accomplishments since I began working here.”
Among those who play at the course is Ted Duffy, an Army veteran who has three Purple Hearts earned during his service in Vietnam.
"John has done a wonderful job with the course and created a lot of fun events for golfers of all levels," said Duffy.
The course offers a driving range, practice putting and chipping greens, a full-service Pro Shop and snack bar.
To reserve a tee time, contact the Patriot Golf Course at 781-687-2396.
For further information about the course, including eligibility, visit https://www.hanscomfss.com/golf-course.