Mangrum, with movie star good looks was a member of the "Texas Gang" that rode out of the hardscrabble caddie yards to plunder the PGA tour in it's first Golden Age, along with Jimmy Demaret, Ben Hogan and Byron Nelson. He joined the Tour in 1937 and quickly established himself setting the course record of 64 in his first round of play ever at the Masters in 1940. This score would not be matched until Jack Nicklaus carded it in the 1960's. Duty to country fighting under General Patton in the second World War saw Mangrum fight bravely at the Battle of the Bulge and earn two Purple Hearts. This only slowed his golf career as he returned better then ever, winning the 1946 US Open. The win at the Open in 1946 was only the start of greatness as he would go on to win 30 more times on Tour for his career total of 36 wins, the 12th most wins ever by a player in his career. In 1951, Mangrum led the PGA money list. He earned the Vardon Trophy in both 1951 and 1953 with the lowest seasonal scoring average on Tour. An excellent Ryder Cup performer, Mangrum appeared in four matches highlighted by his role as player/captain in the 10th ever matches in 1953. His career has twice been recognized with the highest honor with induction into the PGA Hall of Fame in 1964 and the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1998.