Grand Rapids, MI. — November 5, 2024
The PGA of America proudly awards Jon DePriest, PGA, as the recipient of the esteemed 2024 National Patriot Award. DePriest, a Member of the Gateway PGA Section and Director of Golf Operations at Sunset Hills Country Club in Edwardsville, Illinois, embodies the spirit of patriotism and unwavering commitment to Veterans through golf.
The National Patriot Award celebrates a PGA Professional who personifies patriotism and demonstrates dedication to the brave men and women who have served and protected the United States. As the son of a Korean War veteran and a respected PGA member for 39 years, DePriest has passionately supported Veterans, recognizing golf as a powerful tool for therapy and community reintegration.
Under DePriest’s leadership, Sunset Hills Country Club has become a beacon of support for Veterans. He has been a key PGA HOPE instructor since the program’s inception, contributing to its growth and success. In 2022, DePriest launched a pioneering women’s-only PGA HOPE program, which has already seen nearly 40 female Veterans graduate. His commitment extends beyond instruction, with DePriest raising over $900,000 for Veterans’ causes, hosting free-play days, and leading Adaptive Golf Training Seminars for fellow PGA members.
A multi-award winner at the Section level, DePriest’s accolades include three-time recipient of the Patriot Award (2017, 2021, 2023), PGA Golf Professional of the Year (2015, 2024), and the prestigious President’s Plaque for Growth of the Game (2013). His dedication to service is evident through his involvement with the PGA REACH Gateway Board of Directors, Folds of Honor St. Louis Chapter, and First Tee of Riverbend Board, among others.
DePriest’s leadership and moral character inspire his peers and the golf community. His tireless efforts have provided Veterans with opportunities to engage in golf and inspired fellow PGA members to focus on military service and support.
The Gateway PGA Section and the PGA of America extend heartfelt congratulations to Jon DePriest for his exceptional achievements and profound impact on the Military community through the game of golf.
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From left: Bobby Hutchinson, Jon DePriest, PGA, Grant Naughton, Lance Flury, PGA
2023 PGA Championship - Preview Day One
PENFIELD, NY - MAY 15: Jon DePriest, PGA aligns CeeJay Taylor for a putt during the PGA HOPE Secretary's Cup before the PGA Championship at Penfield Country Club on Monday, May 15, 2023 in Penfield, New York. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/PGA of America)
2023 PGA Championship - Preview Day One
PENFIELD, NY - MAY 15: Bobby Hutchinson, Jon DePriest, PGA, CeeJay Taylor, Matthew Sorenson, and Mike LeBlanc pose with the PGA HOPE sign on the the first hole during the PGA HOPE Secretary's Cup before the PGA Championship at Penfield Country Club on Monday, May 15, 2023 in Penfield, New York. (Photo by Rachel Harris/PGA of America)
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Jon DePriest, PGA: Director of Golf at Sunset Hills Country Club in Edwardsville, IL and 2024 Patriot Award winner