The Gosser Golf Course was named for Maj. Delbert L. Gosser, a member of the 531st Tactical Fighter Squadron. The pilot died on Jan. 5, 1962 after ejecting from his F-100 Super-Sabre just 10 minutes after take-off. He ejected safely just north of Misawa but later died at a military hospital. To memorialize the fallen pilot, the course was named the Gosser Memorial Golf Course. Since his passing, the course has been a place of relaxation, friendship, comradery and growth for seven decades. Whether it be in learning a new sport, enhancing your skills, team building, or bilateral relationships, it’s a place for all members of our community.

It takes a total team effort to maintain the Gosser Golf Course and improve programs for Misawa Air Base customers. “The staff at the Gosser Golf Course has been the best team I have had the privilege to work with in my 24 plus year golf career,” says Robert Jacobus, General Manager at the course. Their focus on customer service and work ethic is second to none. The inside team is led by Shinichi Baba, with the assistance of operation clerks, Yukari and Rika. Chef Wada is the force behind the Lakeview Grille team, pumping out some of the best lunch offerings in Misawa.

If you visited the course this spring, you may have noticed additions to the landscape around the Clubhouse. This blooming foliage is a perfect accompaniment to the cherry blossoms and adds to the relaxing atmosphere that our golf course provides. One of Jacobus’ goals for 2020 was to improve upon an already aesthetically breathtaking area. Due to the dedication and hard work of the staff, a number of other projects have been completed over the past few years to enhance the operations and add amenities. The power tee system and lighting upgrades at the Driving Range and the GolfBoards are a couple of items that are not normally found at military courses and we have both here in Misawa. A lot of hard work and ingenuity has gone into keeping all of that grass out there healthy. As soon as the snow melts, the staff work tirelessly to maintain the condition of the grass throughout the summer. Improvements that directly impact the playability and condition of the course include a fairway aerifier and a MicroRain retractable irrigation system, with connection points to tee complexes. Jacobus also led efforts for the team to renovate bunkers, cart paths, and practice putting green areas. Additionally, two chipping greens were added for ease of practice.

“All of these projects would not have been possible without the support of wing, group and squadron leadership over the past few years. They also would not have been possible without the support of our base golfing community and Japanese allies,”  Jacobus notes. The Gosser Golf Course is just one of the FSS facilities that shows what true community
effort can do.

The Gosser Golf Course has consistently led the Air Force in player development programs, to include Get Golf Ready and Kids Drive Free. These programs ensure we are growing the game here in Misawa and adding future players to the sport. Debra Buchanan, daughter of Maj. Delbert Gosser, visited the course on March 27, 2017. She lost her father when she was just 13 years old. Her father’s service is remembered through each improvement to the course, youth that learns a new skill, or friendship that is created here. To find information about the best programs or tournaments for you, hole tips and more, visit https://35fss.com/gosser-golf-course/ or contact the Gosser Golf Course.

By Samantha Trimble

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