This Veterans Day, we are honoring a hero who has made a significant impact on Els for Autism. Steven “Dutch” Van Horn holds many titles: Veteran, Command Master Chief (SEAL Team Six), Autism Advocate, Friend to Ernie and Liezl Els, and Father to Hayden (name changed for privacy).

Dutch enlisted in the United States Navy in 1987, and in 1990, he began his Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL Training. After graduating and then serving on SEAL Team Two, he transferred to the Naval Special Warfare Development Group, also known as SEAL Team Six. During his time with SEAL Team Six, he held leadership roles including Assault Team Leader, Reconnaissance Team Leader, Assault Troop Chief, and Command Master Chief. Following the events of 9/11, Dutch was deployed over 25 times in the support of the Global War on Terrorism. He was awarded the Legion of Merit with Valor, the Silver Star Medal, the Bronze Star Medal with Extraordinary Heroism, and six Bronze Star Medals with Valor.

Towards the end of his military career, Dutch’s son, Hayden, was born. At age 3, Hayden was diagnosed with autism. While attending a training event in Ft. Lauderdale, Dutch was introduced to Ernie Els by a mutual friend. Already a fan of Ernie and now sharing the connection of raising a son with autism, Dutch quickly bonded with Ernie over lunch. After their initial meeting, Ernie took Dutch to see the property that would eventually become The Els Center of Excellence® campus.

Inspired to support Els for Autism, Dutch and several members of the Princess Anne Country Club founded the Princess Anne Country Club Pro-Am Invitational in Virginia Beach in 2017, where he currently lives. Ernie agreed to get involved under one condition: that proceeds from the event would benefit military families in addition to Els for Autism. Last month, the 8th Annual Princess Anne Country Club Pro-Am Invitational took place. Over the years, the event has raised nearly $2 million, benefiting Els for Autism, Families of Autistic Children in Tidewater, the Virginia Autism Foundation, and SEALKIDS.

As for Hayden, Dutch moved his family to South Florida so his son could receive in-person services offered at The Els Center of Excellence campus. Hayden also attends the public charter school on the campus and enjoys participating in our after-school recreational programs. Dutch’s daughter, Olivia, also participates as a volunteer at Els for Autism supporting the special events team.

Today and every day, we are grateful to all Veterans, including Command Master Chief (SEAL) Steven “Dutch” Van Horn, for their service.