Bill Battle

About Bill Battle

A World War II hero, a political ally of John F. Kennedy, and a founder of the annual Virginias-Carolinas golf matches, Battle – who played out of Farmington Country Club — left an indelible mark on golf in Virginia.

Battle’s time at the USGA featured two major achievements. As chairman of the championship committee, he encouraged the USGA to soften its on-course image, with officials shedding blue coats and ties for white short-sleeved shirts and khaki slacks. On his last night as USGA president, he helped the organization settle a dispute with Karsten Manufacturing over the legality of Ping Eye 2 irons.

Crowning Moment…

Became the second Virginian to be elected as president of the United States Golf Association, serving in 1988 and 1989.

1978

The year Battle was elected to the USGA executive committee, starting his path to becoming USGA president

1953

Year Battle was president of the Middle Atlantic Golf Association

1955

The year the annual Virginias-Carolinas Captain’s Putter Matches began; Battle was a co-founder

Achievements & Media

Special thanks to the USGA, PGA Tour, VSGA, MAPGA, WVGA and inductee family members for contributing photos and videos to this project.

ACHIEVEMENTS

Statistics
Date of birth: October 9, 1920
Date of death: May 31, 2008

Accomplishments and Awards

  • Played on the University of Virginia golf team until his graduation in 1941
    Partnered with Virginia Golf Hall of Fame member Tom Strange to win two four-ball matches in the 1957 Captain’s Putter
  • As USGA president, helped the organization settle a lawsuit with Karsten Golf regarding the use of PING EYE2 clubs that did not conform to the Rules of Golf
  • Served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy in World War II, earing a Silver Star medal
  • Served as the 9th United States Ambassador to Australia under Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson

PHOTOS