Pavin back in military mood for Ryder Cup

FROM THE HERALDSCOTLAND.COM WEBSITE
Douglas Lowe Golf Correspondent at Celtic Manor
douglas.lowe@heraldandtimes.co.uk
For the second time in his controversial Ryder Cup career, US captain Corey Pavin has linked the biennial match against Europe to the military.
On his debut at Kiawah Island in 1991 that became known as the “War on the Shore”, Pavin wore a Desert Storm cap, ostensibly to show support for US troops during the first Iraq war, a gesture that inflamed some Europeans who took it as misplaced aggression in the golfing context. Pavin has maintained his actions were misconstrued on this side of the Atlantic.
Now he has enlisted the support of F-16 fighter pilot Major Dan Rooney, who has three Iraq campaigns behind him and, uniquely, is also a PGA of America professional, to deliver a motivational address before the Ryder Cup that begins tomorrow at Celtic Manor in Wales.
Colin Montgomerie, the captain of the European team, has restricted his idea of war games to the use of the ailing Seve Ballesteros and Welsh rugby legend Gareth Edwards to fire up his team. It is a stark contrast to what has been going on in the US team room.

Pavin said: “I think what the military does is amazing – to put your life on the line for what you believe and for the freedoms of other people. Obviously, it’s the ultimate sacrifice to do that, and I think it is very worthwhile to recognise that.”

He said Rooney had talked for about 20 minutes and every one of his 12-player US team payed full attention. “I want these guys to be accountable to each other and basically that is what happens in the military,” said Pavin.