Col. George R. Hall Sportsmanship Award

Colonel George R. Hall’s remarkable journey as a prisoner of war (POW) during the Vietnam War stands as a testament to his enduring resilience, unwavering determination, and the indomitable human spirit. His experiences as a captive offer profound insights into the challenges faced by those held in captivity and the extraordinary strength required to survive such circumstances.

Colonel Hall’s ordeal began when he was shot down over North Vietnam during a mission on September 27, 1965. He ejected and was captured. The challenges he faced ranged from physical to psychological, as he grappled with prolonged isolation, malnutrition, and torture.

Throughout his captivity, Colonel Hall exhibited remarkable strength of character. His leadership skills never wavered as he endeavored to maintain camaraderie and morale among his fellow prisoners. His ability to inspire hope and unity was a testament to his unwavering dedication to duty and his profound belief in the principles he had sworn to uphold.

His love for the game of golf and his determination to one day reunite with his beloved family kept him motivated and mentally strong.

Almost daily, Colonel Hall played imaginary rounds of golf, many on his hometown course of Hattiesburg Country Club. He visualized each shot with care and precision, hitting the fairways with his tee shots and the greens with his approaches. He always made par—no birdies, no bogeys—always par.

He spent the next 2,695 days as a prisoner of war before being released during Operation Homecoming on February 12, 1973. After 7 ½ years, Colonel George R. Hall was finally reunited with his family: his wife Patsy and their three children. His son, Bobby, is the longtime Director of Golf at Quail Creek Golf Club in Fairhope, AL. He is also the Rules Official of the GCGA Tour, a confidant, and a friend. Like his dad, he loves golf!

In 2005, Colonel George R. Hall published a book about his experience titled Commitment to Honor: A Prisoner of War Remembers Vietnam. Colonel Hall passed away on February 16, 2014, and is buried at Oaklawn Cemetery in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

The award is presented annually to a participant who exhibits respect for the traditions of the game, a commitment to sportsmanlike conduct during both good and bad rounds, and regard for fellow competitors.

Your nominee should be someone with whom you would enjoy playing a round of golf. When placed in the proper perspective, it becomes apparent that a bad day on the golf course isn’t really that bad at all.

The first Colonel George R. Hall Sportsmanship Award was presented to Randy Little at our 2023 Tour Championship.

Anyone who has participated in one or more SFGT events during the 2024 season is encouraged to nominate any player who meets the above criteria. Each participant may nominate more than one player but should do so in individual submissions.

Please use the contact form below to make your nomination.

A committee consisting of Bobby Hall, Randy Burgan, Joey Johnson, and 2023 recipient Randy Little will select the recipient from those nominated.