Dr. Damon Friedman, decorated special operations officer and business leadership speaker and advocate for military veterans is scheduled to speak at Lehigh Christian Academy’s first golf tournament and gala dinner May 5 at Green Pond Country Club, Bethlehem.

The event is sponsored by Crest Financial Group.

Friedman, a recently retired United States Air Force colonel, served four combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

Originally a United States Marine Corps officer, Friedman transferred into the Air Force’s as a special tactics officer and a leader in special operations, according to his bio.

Friedman’s decorations include three Bronze Stars, one with valor and the Air Force Combat Action Medal.

Friedman also is a 2018 recipient of the Spirit of Hope Award presented by the United States Secretary of Defense for “duty, honor, courage, loyalty, commitment, integrity and selfless dedication and significantly enhancing the quality of life of Service members and families serving around the world.”

In 2011 Friedman established Shield of Faith Missions with a focus on empowering those in the military to find purpose and be resilient. SOF Missions aims “to raise awareness of the veteran suicide epidemic and provide a solution through customized holistic treatment plans that help veterans and their families deal with the scars of war.”

Friedman is also the author of the recently published “Igniting Movements: How Critical Factors And Special Ops Empower World Changers” based on his analysis of movement theories.

Presented by the Crest Financial Group, the first ever golf tournament for Lehigh Christian Academy is targeting proceeds to financially help families requiring tuition assistance, especially those who faced a loss of income during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The scramble tournament is offering an array of prizes including an opportunity to win $100,000 in a shootout. There also will be a putting contest.

Friedman is the scheduled guest speaker at the tournament’s dinner at 5:30 p.m. and is open to tournament participants and the general public.

For additional information, contact Lehigh Christian Academy at 610-776-7301, ext. 264 or email jmoser@lcamustangs.org.

Registration for golf, dinner or sponsorship opportunities can be found at www.lcamustangs.org.