Tees, Trees, Military History

Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow
Story by Lance Cpl. Samuel Ranney

Date: 12.15.2013
Posted: 12.16.2013 14:06
News ID: 118277
Tees, Trees, Military History

Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., is located in the vast Mojave Desert … in the midst of all the sand and cacti, one may be surprised to come across a tree-filled, luscious nine-hole golf course.

The Tees and Trees Golf Course, located right outside of the base, is just that -- a green, nine-hole course filled with military veterans but open to the public, year round from sunup until sundown, explained Kenneth Herris, league clerk at the course.

Herris, who has worked at Tees and Trees for more than a decade, described the course as being challenging yet relaxing and good for beginners to work on their skills.

“A lot of us here golf and are more than happy to offer lessons,” he added. “It’s always good to get new talent out here.”

Most of their customers are former service members, but Herris encourages active duty Marines and soldiers to pick up a new sport and possibly learn a thing or two from the veterans.

The golf course also provides a local, affordable place for service members to pass their time in the High Desert.

Herris explained the first four active duty service members to come in each day, golf for free. After that, depending on rank, active duty service members get discounts.

Prices for a nine-hole game are as follows:

• E1-E5 - $5
• E6-O2 - $7
• O3-O10 - $8
• Civilian - $9
• 18 years-old and under - $3

Sergeant Joel Richards, training noncommissioned officer on MCLB Barstow, is one active duty Marine here who takes full advantage of what the course has to offer.

“I come out here to golf as often as possible … usually about four times a week,” said Richards.

Richards, who has been golfing for more than 12 years, explained it’s a great course to sharpen up one’s skills.

The Westin, WV native, further explained Tees and Trees, and golfing in general, is a great way for Marines to relax.

“It helps me deal with stress,” explained Richards, who has been on multiple combat deployments. “I have a lot of anxiety and it helps calm me down.”

Like Herris, Richards also encourages other Marines to try out the golf course.

“The majority of the guys out there are veterans … they all understand what it’s like to be in the military,” said Richards. “It’s a great place for any Marine to golf, relax and share stories with veterans.”

For more information about lessons, club rentals, or leagues, call the Tees and Trees Golf Course at 760 – 577 – 6431.