Tiger Woods is honoring his family this Memorial Day with a personal tribute to his late father, Earl Dennison Woods.
Earn was an infantry officer in the U.S. Army, who served two tours of duty in South Vietnam and was the recipient of several awards before retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 1974.
He welcomed Tiger, now 50, in 1975 and had three other children before his death in May of 2006 at the age of 74. Earl was also heavily involved in his son's booming golf career, exclusively coaching him during his younger years.
On Memorial Day, Tiger resurfaced on social media for the first time with a personal message in nearly two full months, writing: "My father was a Special Forces operator with two tours in Vietnam and 20 years of service."
"To all those like my father, we all say thank you for your sacrifices. Without them we wouldn't have the greatest country on Earth." His followers shared their own messages for veterans and those who served the country too, while also wishing him well.
The champion athlete was involved in a rollover crash in Jupiter, Florida in late March, which ended with him being charged with a DUI for both driving under the influence and property damage. He has since pleaded not guilty, and reportedly left the country to seek treatment, elaborating on the latter with a lengthy statement posted on social media days later.
"I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today," he began. "I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health."
© Getty Images"This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery. I'm committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally."
He concluded with: "I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time." That March 31 message was his last personal social media statement since the Memorial Day tribute posted on Monday, May 25.
Since then, the case has moved along with multiple preliminary hearings this past month, although Tiger hasn't been present at them (the defendant's hearing isn't always mandated at the preliminary hearings as long as a representative is present).
© Getty ImagesHis girlfriend, Vanessa Trump, showed her support for him after the incident, and even reposted his Memorial Day tribute. Over the weekend, she has come forward with news of her own, revealing that she has breast cancer.
"While this isn't news anyone expects, I'm working closely with my medical team on a treatment plan," she wrote. "I would like to thank my doctors for performing a procedure earlier this week on me."
© InstagramShe noted that she is "staying focused and hopeful while surrounded by the love and support of my family, my kids, and those closest to me." Tiger subtly showed his support by liking the message on Instagram as well.
