A Better Person for the World : Arnold Palmer in the Coast Guard Auxiliary

On September 10 we remember golfing legend Arnold Palmer’s birthday. Nicknamed “The King,” Palmer was one of the sport’s superstars winning 62 PGA tour titles over his career. Perhaps less well-known than his golfing achievements was his United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA) service.

In 2011, Palmer sat down for an interview with USCGA National Historian Dr., Richard A. Stephenson recalling his experience. Titled “A Better Person for the World”, the interview is a part of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Records #0559 in the East Carolina Manuscript Collection. In the interview, Palmer discusses his motivations for enlisting, his experiences as a Coast Guardsman, and the lessons he learned from his service.

While enrolled at Wake Forest College, Palmer suffered the loss of his close friend Bud Worsham. Worsham’s death prompted Palmer to leave school and enlist in the USCGA in 1951. Enlisting at Washington, D.C., Palmer was first sent to the Cape May Coast Guard Training Center. Following basic training, Palmer worked at the center leading recruits in physical education courses and teaching personal protection. Palmer also served as a lifeguard at the local beaches.  After a time, Palmer was stationed in Cleveland, Ohio serving as a photographer and working a desk job within United States Coast Guard District 9.

During the interview, Palmer credits the USCGA for making him “a better person for the world” and his life to follow. The maturity gained and the education he received while enlisted laid the groundwork for future success, according to Palmer.

Palmer’s full interview can be viewed by clicking the link here: “A Better Person for the World”. For more information about the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and the records maintained on the organization, please visit the collection guide linked above.