Lee Elder

Lee Elder was an American professional golfer. In 1975, he became the first African-American to play in the Masters Tournament, opening the doors for players like Tiger Woods. In 1959, Elder was drafted into the Army, and was placed in a Special Services unit by his commanding officer Colonel John Gleaster, an avid golfer, allowing him to play golf on a steady basis. Elder also fought for the advancement of colored players in sports, spoke out against country clubs that excluded Black golfers from membership, and raised money for the United Negro College Fund.