Mike and Debbie Laird recently welcomed 352 golfers from all over Indiana to the 18th annual Jake Laird Golf Outing. The weather was perfect and both courses at the Pebble Brook Golf Club were in pristine condition, which made for the most successful outing since its inception in 2004 after their son, Jake Laird, an Indianapolis police officer, was shot and killed in the line of duty.
Mike and Debbie were given the Sagamore of the Wabash Award for their service to multiple public safety agencies throughout Indiana. (From left) State Representative Donna Schaibley, Mike Laird, Debbie Laird and Noblesville Public Safety Director Chad Knecht. (Photo provided)
The money raised benefits police and fire agencies in Indiana with the purchase of new equipment, the support of instructional programs and financial assistance to officers injured in the line of duty.
Joining during the opening ceremonies were State Representative Donna Schaibley, Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen and Noblesville Director of Public Safety Chad Knecht.
The morning began with a surprise from State Representative Donna Schaibley, who, on behalf of Governor Holcomb, honored Mike and Debbie with the Sagamore of the Wabash Award for their service to multiple public safety agencies throughout Indiana. To date, the Lairds have donated over $1 million to police and firefighter agencies.
Branch Sales Manager Angie Turley, Title Sponsor from Fairway Mortgage, said, “My team donates and sponsors to the Laird outing because public safety employees are a huge part of our business. We enjoy helping to give back to them! We are honored to be a part of this event.”
VP of Marketing Lenny Lisle, Title Sponsor from Indiana Grand Racing & Casino, said, “It is such a privilege for Indiana Grand Racing & Casino to be one of the title sponsors for the Jake Laird Memorial golf outing and also support the Foundation. Our annual contribution of $10,000 carries on the love and support we have for Jake, Mike, Debbie and the Laird family. It’s an honor to show our respect and admiration for Jake, and the thousands of first responders in Indiana. Next year will mark our 10-year partnership, and Caesars Entertainment will again be a proud supporter and title sponsor!”
Mike and Debbie say they are looking forward to new opportunities to serve the police and fire communities and thank everyone for their participation in this year’s outing. For additional information please refer to thejakelairdmemorialtourney.org.