Brennan Foundation Golf Outing Set for Next Week

It has been four years since Howell native Brian Brennan was severely injured while serving overseas with the US Army. Since losing both his legs then Lt.  Brennan has come back to return to active duty and was promoted to the rank of Captain as part of a remarkable recovery.

Since Brennan was wounded the Brennan Stands Alone Foundation has helped not only in his recovery, but also other service members. Jim Godfrey, who serves as a member of the board of directors said the foundation has been able to shift their efforts away from Brennan and on to others in need. "Brian's doing very well," he said.

Godfrey said they have followed Brennan's directions on where he wants the foundation to go. "One of the things Brian had said to us a while back is that the town, the community and the state was phenomenal with the support he received," he said. "What he wants now is he wants the Brennan Stands Alone Foundation to switch over to an active role in helping other wounded servicemen."

The help the foundation provides comes in a variety of ways. It can be financial, helping to make a home more accessible for wounded veterans or even providing something as simple as a gas card for the family of a soldier in need. 

When they go to places like Walter Reed Hospital Godfrey said that help is particularly appreciated. "One of the things a lot of people don't realize is that the service member is fully taken care of, but the family is all on them," he said as far as living costs go. That can mean helping with a hotel room for the family of someone who will be staying in the hospital for an extended time or the ability to afford driving back and forth from home. 

Since its inception three years ago board member Stanley Brzozowski said in an email that the foundation has raised close to $150 thousand all of which has benefitted Brennan and other service members. "We have been blessed with Brian's recovery, and hope to help others through their traumatic times," he said. 

The golf outing is scheduled to be held on Aug. 20 at Pebble Creek in Colts Neck. The day includes a continental breakfast, a shotgun start, lunch and a reception at the Cabin. Godfrey said the cost is $150 per person. There are also a variety of sponsorship opportunities available. 

Godfrey said he expects it to be a special day especially with Brennan expected to attend. "It'll be in a more relaxing setting to meet and greet," he said. "Pebble Creek has opened up their doors for us and given us a phenomenal package. It's just a nice way to spend a morning into the afternoon."

The foundation is also planning a dinner dance for Nov. 17 at the Southard Fire House. That has also become an benefitting other wounded members of the armed forces. 

For more information on the foundation check out their website and Facebook page. The flyer for the event can be seen attached to this story.