SUMMIT TWP — Operation Sand Trap is a charity golf event that is housing a full field for the third consecutive year.

Yet, it seemingly has yet to reach its full potential.

The sixth annual golf outing — played by veterans or active military members to benefit homeless veterans — takes place at 8 a.m. June 27 at Hiland Golf Course.

“We had 50 of 58 golfers the first year we did this,” said Buck Ridley, the outing’s founder and organizer. “Now we’ve got a waiting list. This is the third year we’ve had a complete 144-golfer field.”

The fee of $65 gets the golfer 18 holes with a cart, a six-pack of beer on the cart, an Operation Sand Trap T-shirt and a steak dinner at the end of the day.

Ridley said all of the money collected goes to homeless veterans through the Riders of the American Legion, Butler post.

“For the first time this year, we’re also encouraging guys to bring dry goods, used clothing, toothbrushes, etc. that we can donate to the homeless veterans center on Rte. 268,” Ridley said. “We’ll be collecting a ton of stuff. There’s always new ways to help.

“This is an event played by veterans to help veterans. That’s what it’s about. Nobody wants any money here.”

The winning teams receive golf passes donated by Hiland, Olde Stonewall, Aubrey’s Dubbs Dred, Oakview Golf Club and Bavarian Hills.

Ridley said Operation Sand Trap has raised $23,000 for homeless vets over the past five years.

“That figure will surpass $25,000 this year,” he said.

Ridley, 65, of Bruin served in the Navy from 1968-72. He was reading an article about homeless veterans in a VA magazine while he was in the VA hospital six years ago.

“I couldn’t believe how many vets were homeless. I was moved to do something about it,” Ridley said. “This golf outing has been a great way to organize veterans and bring them together.”

Eighty percent of the golfers are from the Butler area. A few come over from Kittanning and Ridley’s best friend, who lives in Myrtle Beach. S.C., comes up to play in the event every year.

“For the first time this year, we have a group of four wounded warriors playing,” Ridley said proudly.

Alan Zediker, whose family owns Hiland Golf Course, has been friends with Ridley for decades. Ridley has been playing golf at the course since the 1970’s.

“Buck was good friends with my brother and that’s how our family got to know him,” Zediker said. “When he first approached me about a military golf outing, I thought it was a great idea.

“We’re proud to host it.”

A 21-gun salute and taps will take place as part of the opening ceremony. Vanessa Bartoe of the Brady’s Bend American Legion will sing the national anthem.

A “flag by” involving nearly 40 Harleys donning American flags will take place as well.

“I was not in the service, so it’s an honor for us to have this event,” Zediker said. “I remember listening to some of these veterans’ stories. I appreciate what these people have gone out and done for us.

“All we’re doing is giving them a venue to help and support each other. It’s a great thing to see.”