Byron Nelson's accomplishments as a professional golfer were as impressive as his golf swing.
In 1945, Byron Nelson accomplished an incredible winning streak that to this day has not been challenged and will likely stand forever. He won 18 tournaments that season, including 11 straight, and established the record for the lowest scoring average (68.33), which stands today. He also holds the record for consecutive events without missing the cut at 113.
There is a reason why he is the only PGA professional golfer that has a PGA tour named in his honor: the HP Byron Nelson Championship. Mr. Nelson won 54 career victories, including winning two Masters (1937 and 1942), two PGA Championships (1940 and 1945), and the U.S. Open (1939). He is one of only two golfers to be named “Male Athlete of the Year” twice by the Associated Press, and the World Golf Hall of Fame honored Byron Nelson in 2004 by featuring an exhibit entitled “Byron Nelson: A Champion … A Gentleman.”
While Mr. Nelson obtained the status as a world class athlete, it was his humanitarian efforts that were truly first class. He was a champion for the underprivileged and had given his time, talents, and funds to make this a better world.
Byron Nelson and the HP Byron Nelson Championship have raised more than $100 million for the Salesmanship Club Youth and Family Centers, a nonprofit agency that provides education and mental health services for more than 2,700 children and their families in the greater Dallas area. Additionally, the Byron and Louise Nelson Golf Endowment Fund had provided over $1.5 million in endowment funds to Abilene Christian University in Abilene, Texas. Another example of his service was his dedication to the Metroport Meals on Wheels which provides daily, home-delivered, hot lunch for the frail, elderly and chronically ill residents. Byron Nelson was an active honorary chairman since 1992.
On October 16, 2006, Congressman Michael C. Burgess' bill to award Byron Nelson the Congressional Gold Medal was signed into law by President George W. Bush. The following statement may be attributed to Congressman Burgess:
This day is truly all about Byron Nelson. When this process began, I told Byron that he deserved this high distinction for all he had done, and he so graciously denied accolades.
Byron's faith in God and strong character made him a beacon of hope to all who were lucky enough to know him. He was generous, gentlemanly and sincere in all areas of his life. While many may remember him as a legendary golfer, most remember him as a philanthropic leader.
Today, I am very proud that the American people, and indeed our President, have honored Byron Nelson and will award him the Congressman Gold Medal sometime next spring.
The medal was awarded to Peggy Nelson, Byron's widow, on June 26, 2007, at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. The ceremony was followed by a private meeting in the Oval Office with President George W. Bush.
About the Congressional Gold Medal
Since the American Revolution, Congress has taken part in a time honored tradition and has commissioned gold medals as the highest expression of national appreciation. Each medal represents and honors distinguished achievements and contributions to our country.
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President George W. Bush signed a bill on October 16th, 2006, awarding golfing legend Byron Nelson with the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal, which recognizes individuals, institutions or events for distinguished achievements and contributions.
