Did Arnold Palmer Ever Serve in the U.S. Military?

Arnold Palmer, the legendary golfer, won over 90 championship events throughout his career. He also had created a golf course designing company, ‘Arnold Palmer Design Company.’ The golf world only knew him through these lenses. However, rarely do people know that he had also served in the military.

The death of his dear friend caused Palmer to join the Coast Guard service in 1951. Bud Worsham was his best friend and roommate when he attended Wake Forest College in North Carolina. Notably, Arnold had received a golf scholarship to study at the college. 

The golfer had served in the Coast Guard from 1951 to 1954. While serving in the service, Arnold developed a respect for the Coast Guard. He said, “I thought it was a great outfit that specialized in saving lives.” 

What did Arnold Palmer think about serving in Coast Guard? 

“I’m very proud of the fact that I was in the Coast Guard.” Palmer had always felt pride in serving his nation. According to him, all the young need to have military training once in their life to have maturity.

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He said, “The knowledge that I gained, the maturity that I gained in the Coast Guard, made me a better person.” 

He had always found the military as an institution where one could improve oneself. “The military isn’t just about restrictions; it is a learning experience,” Palmer added. He was talking to a historian with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Richard A. Stephenson. 

Palmer had served as a lifeguard for the center’s recruits after his basic training at the Cape May in New Jersey. Additionally, he also trained the recruits to use force when necessary. 

Interestingly enough, he served as a photographer and took military id card photos on his next posting. After serving for his country, Palmer returned to his college to complete his education. 

As a golfer, Palmer was nothing but incredible. However, he had a different life before that, where he explored being in the military after the death of his dear friend. Notably, from his time in the military, Palmer attained maturity and discipline.

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