Warm weather, good food, and one memorable hole-in-one highlighted this year’s Stars & Stripes Scramble supporting Homeless & Wounded Warriors – MN at Whitefish Golf Club in Pequot Lakes.

The annual tournament raised approximately $3,000, which will go directly to veterans and their families who need our unwavering support. (Update: An additional $5,900 from direct sponsorship has been reported, as well.)

One of the day’s biggest moments came on the 17th hole, where longtime tournament participant Rocky Wilske carded a hole-in-one to claim a $500 prize. However, tournament’s elusive $10,000 hole-in-one prize once again went unclaimed.

The former Memorial Day event — now held the following weekend each year — raises money for veterans in need of home repairs, vehicle repairs, utility assistance, handicap-accessible equipment, clothing, and other emergency needs.

This year’s event also featured raffle prizes donated by area businesses and supporters, including a custom rod and reel combo from Russ Philstrom, a meat package from Emily Meats, an inflatable towable from Larry’s Lake Rentals, rounds of golf from Whitefish Golf Club and Grand View Lodge, and other various items.

Organizers extend a special thank you to the Crosslake American Legion Post 500, a longtime sponsor and supporter of HWW-MN, along with the many local businesses, donors, golfers, volunteers, and Whitefish Golf Club staff members who helped make the event possible.

Go Serve Big!

Another firearms raffle hit the bullseye for Homeless & Wounded Warriors – MN, and this year’s event packed the Woodtick Inn in Cuyuna with ticket holders and several in-house winners.

The May 23 raffle raised $33,020, surpassing last fall’s record of $30,800, with ticket purchases from several other states and several women taking home prizes as well.

The firearms raffle has quickly become one of HWW-MN’s largest and most successful annual fundraisers, drawing more support from veterans, outdoorsmen, local businesses, and community members throughout Minnesota and neighboring states. Organizers also thank the Cuyuna Fire Department, Tutt’s Bait & Tackle, and the many donors, volunteers, sponsors, and participants who continue to support the organization’s mission and fundraising efforts throughout the year.

The annual motorcycle ride for Homeless & Wounded Warriors — MN will be held on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026.

The longtime event makes a round-trip day adventure from the Crosslake American Legion and includes several stops at popular locations around the Brainerd Lakes Area. Full details to come.