Branson Bugle Fall 2012

PRESORTSTANDARDUSPOSTAGEPAID

BLACC/CVB

Fall 2012 - Vol. 11, No. 2

Branson/Lakes AreaChamberofCommerceP.O.Box 1897Branson,MO65615

Veterans HomecomingNovember 5-11

ExploreBranson.com/Veterans

It has been nearly 20 years since Tony Orlando host-ed his first free Veterans Day show in Branson to a fewhundred people. That show was the start of what hasnow evolved into Veterans Homecoming week whenthousands of veterans gather in Branson to be celebrat-ed and honored.

While Orlando will once again host his free show,“Tony Orlando’s Yellow Ribbon Salute,” at 2 p.m.Veterans Day, numerous other activities are planned inthe week leading up to Veterans Day.

The popular mini-reunions will return this year, giv-ing warriors a chance to reunite with fellow soldiersthey served alongside. The popular day room, hostedby Chip and Sandy Milner will also return this year toFactory Merchant Branson, often referred to as the RedRoof Mall.

Since last year’s homecoming, the mall is now a cityredevelopment project. Stores have relocated else-where in Branson and future plans for the mall have yetto be decided. In the meantime, the city of Branson hasmade the complex available for Veterans Homecoming.You’ll not only find the day room, but also the lunchroom where free lunch will be served to veterans onceagain from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 6-10, and VeteransVillage, where vendors will be on hand throughout theweek.

Several shows are planned to help kick off the week. The “Patriotic Welcome to Veterans Homecoming

Week” is set for 2 p.m. Nov. 5 at Yakov’s theater. Thefree event will feature entertainment and speakers.

You’ll also want to mark your calendar for the new“Vets for Vets” welcome show set for 5 p.m. that day atThe Starlite Theatre.

Performers in the USO-style show are veterans andactive-duty personnel who perform in various Bransonshows. This is also a free show for veterans and theirfamilies.

Celebrate and Be HonoredMindy Honey, Branson Tri-Lakes News

SCHEDULE OF EVENTSPAGE 3

Page 2 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans The Branson Bugle

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The Branson Bugle ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 3

Veterans week 2012 is fast approach-ing. The Vietnam Traveling Wall willopen Veterans week on Monday, Nov. 5,at the Welk Resort at 10 a.m. The guestspeaker will be Eddie Beesley, aka “Mr.Branson.” (By the way, I highly recom-mend you read Eddie’s book “LuckyEnough”).

All of our Veterans week Task Forceevents will be at the Factory MerchantsBranson (aka the Red Roof Mall), build-ings 5 and 6, on Gretna Road. TheBranson Veterans Task Force has twobuildings at the Red Roof Mall that willaccommodate all of our Veterans weekactivities — Day Room, Veterans’Village, Walls of Heroes, and theVeterans’ lunch program. The Veterans’Village space will be much larger thisyear. As in the past, veterans will receivea free lunch; we request a $5 donation

from non-veterans.The task force office is

now located at Red RoofMall in building 6.

The Starlite Theatre andthe Branson Veterans TaskForce continue their plansfor the Veterans week open-ing show “Vets For Vets” at5 p.m., on Monday, Nov. 5.The Starlite Theatre is located at 3115 W.Highway 76.

This show is unique in that the enter-tainers and the show producer are veter-ans providing entertainment for veterans.

The 5 p.m. showtime was chosen toallow our visitors to schedule their activ-ities easier.

As you know, the Branson VeteransTask Force is an all-volunteer organiza-tion. If you are in the Branson area and

would like to help us in our projects andprograms, contact our office at 417-337-8387.

The activities we can provide are limit-ed by the number of volunteers we haveto share the responsibilities.

Ernie Bradley, Branson Veterans Task Force Chairman

ErnieBradley

Make ‘Vets for Vets’ part of your plans

VETERANS HOMECOMING EVENTSVeterans Homecoming is held annually in

Branson Nov. 5-11 and includes dozens of reunions,activities, ceremonies and salutes honoring ournation’s heroes.

NOV. 4, 2012SKAGGS

VETERAN’S WALLWhere: Skaggs Cafe at Skaggs Regional

Medical CenterPhone: 417-335-7357When: Nov. 4-10Skaggs Regional Medical Center will have

a wall exhibit near its cafeteria, displayingphotos and biographies on its employees andtheir families who are active duty or veteranU.S. military.

VIETNAMMEMORIAL WALL

Where: Main lobby of Grand CountryMusic Hall on 76 Country Boulevard

When: Open daily from 8 a.m.-10 p.m.Phone: 417-335-2484This free exhibit will showcase hundreds

of patches collected from all branches of themilitary service. Each patch holds specialmeaning for the branch, division or unit rep-resented. It is a collection in progress andpatch donations are welcome.

NOV. 5, 2012TRAVELING EXHIBIT OPENS

VIETNAM VETERANSMEMORIAL

When: Nov. 5Time: 10 a.m. Where: Welk Resort BransonPhone: 800-505-9355An opening ceremony for the traveling

Vietnam Veterans Memorial will be held atWelk resort during the 2012 VeteransHomecoming celebration. This moving trib-ute to fallen and missing Vietnam veteranswill be open to the public. A special locatorbook will be available to assist visitors infinding specific names. The wall will be openNov. 5-12.

REGISTRATION ANDBUTTON SALES

Where: Branson Veterans Events &Reunions at 2900 Green Mountain Dr.

When: Nov. 5-10Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Phone: 417-230-2278Register with Branson Veterans Events &

Reunions for the week and pick up the secondVeterans Homecoming Week Button for $5.

VENDORSVETERANS VILLAGEWhen: Nov. 5-10Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.-

3 p.m. SaturdayWhere: Factory Merchants BransonPhone: 417-337-8387Find out about area veteran organizations.

OPENING CEREMONYPATRIOTIC WELCOME

TO VETERANSHOMECOMING

Where: Yakov’s TheatreTime: 2 p.m.Web: bransonveteransevents.comPhone: 417-230-2278This event is free to veterans and their fam-

ilies.

AFTERNOON REFRESHMENTSTEA AND COOKIESWhen: Nov. 5-11Time: 2-4 p.m.Location: Hotel Grand VictorianPhone: 417-336-2935, ext. 104Veterans and their spouses are invited to

enjoy Victorian tea and cookies complimentsof Hotel Grand Victorian.

SHOWBOAT BRANSON BELLESALUTE

TO VETERANSWhere: Showboat Branson BelleTime: 4 p.m. cruiseCost: $44 plus tax, gratuity not includedPhone: 417-618-9283The Showboat Branson Belle, a 700-seat

1890’s paddle wheeler, is America’s largestship ever built on a landlocked lake. TheShowboat Branson Belle will host a specialsalute to veterans, including a meal, cruiseand show.

WELCOME SHOWVETS FOR VETS

Where: The Starlite TheatreTime: 5-7 p.m.Phone: 417-337-8387A USO-style show performed by veterans

and active duty personnel including No. 1Hits of the 60s, the TV series ‘China Beach,’pianist Dino, Keith Allynn’s Neil DiamondTribute and more.

The show is free to veterans and their fam-ilies. Donations will be accepted. The show ispresented by the Branson Veterans TaskForce.

Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News

EVENTS — cont. on 4

Eddie Beesley will be the guest speak-er at the opening of the Vietnam TravelingWall Nov. 5 at Welk Resort.


Opening ceremony, tribute to spouses on tapArlen Lipper, Branson Veterans Events & Reunions Director

As we prepare for VeteransHomecoming week, we’re excited about allof our events scheduled this year.

Remember this is an election year so ifyou’re going to be in Branson for the open-ing ceremony on Nov. 5 you’ll want to con-sider an absentee ballot. Just be sure tovote.

Branson Veterans Events & Reunionshave the following events set for thisNovember: the opening ceremony, VeteransSporting Clays Shoot at Ozark ShootersSports Complex; Persian Gulf War Mini-Reunion at Golden Corral; the first SpousesLuncheon, the Women Veterans Mini-Reunion at Golden Corral; the Korean WarVeterans Mini-Reunion at Stone CastleHotel & Conference Center and WalmartTribute to Veterans.

Make sure to check out ournew event, A Salute toVeterans Spouses Luncheon,set for Nov. 7.

For those who wish to par-ticipate in the Sporting ClaysShoot, you can go to ourwebsite and download theregistration form and mail itto Ozark Shooters.

The registration form is atthe bottom of the home page.

This year we’re having a registration atour temporary office at 2900 GreenMountain Dr., where you can purchaseyour Commemorative Collectors Button atour office. Part of the proceeds will go tobenefit homeless veterans and assistwounded warriors. Don’t forget to getyours and help our veterans. There is a lim-

ited supply. Watch our website for updates.We had a successful Vietnam veterans

event in March and are looking forward toour second one in April of 2013. Please seethe article in this issue of the Bugle.

As we honor our veterans here at home,we want to remember those still servinghere and around the world; we also want toremember the families of those serving asthey are making the sacrifice of taking careof the home front. It’s not easy on the fam-ily not knowing where their loved one isserving.

Let’s take some time each day toremember our fallen heroes and those serv-ing in harm’s way with our prayers.

We hope to see you in Branson forVeterans Homecoming Week weather yourcoming from afar or locally, drive safe.We’re working on new events, so please

watch our event calendar and look at ournewsletter online at bransonveteransev-ents.com.

ArlenLipper

VETERANS HOMECOMING EVENTSNOV. 5, 2012

SKAGGSVETERAN’S WALLWhere:Skaggs Regional Medical CenterPhone: 417-335-7357When: Nov. 4-10Skaggs Regional Medical Center will

have a wall exhibit near its cafeteria, dis-playing photos and biographies on itsemployees and their families who areactive duty or veterans of the U.S. military.

NOV. 6, 2012DAILY

REVEILLEWhere: Factory Merchants BransonWhen: Nov. 6-10Time: 7 a.m.Phone: 417-337-8387

DAILYDAY ROOM

Where: Factory Merchants BransonWhen: Nov. 6-10Time: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.Phone: 417-337-8387Enjoy coffee and cookies and a chance

to meet new friends.

TRIBUTEPOW/MIA SERVICE

Where: Vietnam Memorial Wall at theWelk Resort

Time: 8 a.m.Web: pownetwork.orgPhone: 417-336-4232Special guest speaker will be former

POW Capt. William Robinson. The eventis hosted by the POW Network.

BRANSON VETERANS TASKFORCE

VENDOR VILLAGEWhen: Nov. 5-10Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday

Where: Factory Merchants BransonPhone: 417-337-8387Find out about area veteran organiza-

tions.



When: Nov. 5-10Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Web: bransonveteransevents.com Phone: 417-230-2278Register with Branson Veterans Events

& Reunions for the week and pick up thesecond Veterans Homecoming WeekButton. The button is $5 and a portion ofthe proceeds will go to help veterans.

SPORTING CLAY SHOOTSHOOT WITH A VET

Where: Ozark Shooters Sports ComplexTime: 9 a.m.-noonWeb: bransonveteransevents.comPhone: 417-230-2278Pre-register by Oct. 29 and be entered

into a special drawing. Fees include 100targets, drawing for door prizes. Furnishyour own shells.

This event is hosted by BransonVeterans Events & Reunions.

FREE FOR VETSLUNCH

Where: Factory Merchants BransonTime: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.Phone: 417-337-8387Free for veterans; $5 per guest. The

lunch is sponsored by local Steve Weyherin building 6, along with Veterans Village.

GATHERINGS PLUSVIETNAM MINI-

REUNIONWhere: Camden Conference CenterTime: noon-5 p.m.Web: reunionpro.comPhone: 417-338-4048Enjoy lunch, entertainment and draw-

ings for show tickets and gifts. This is agreat time to catch up with old friends, aswell as make some new ones.

AFTERNOON REFRESHMENTSVICTORIAN TEAAND COOKIES

When: Nov. 5-11Time: 2-4 p.m.Location: Hotel Grand VictorianPhone: 417-336-2935, ext. 104All veterans and their spouses are invit-

ed to enjoy Victorian tea and cookies com-pliments of Hotel Grand Victorian inBranson.

JERRY FORD ORCHESTRABIG BAND DANCEWhere: Our Lady of the Lake Catholic

Church Parish Center on Vaughn Drive inBranson.

Time: 2 & 7 p.m.Web: jerryfordorchestra.comPhone: 800-689-3969Jerry Ford’s 14-piece orchestra from

Cape Girardeau will have three perform-ances during the Branson VeteransHomecoming week for big band dancing.Sessions will also be held Nov. 7 and 8 atthe Catholic church parish center onVaughn Drive. The sessions are sponsoredby Bank of Missouri.

According to organizers, this is the firsttime big band dancing has been offeredduring Branson’s Veterans Homecomingweek.

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SKAGGSVETERAN’S WALLWhere: Skaggs Cafe at Skaggs Regional

Medical CenterWeb: skaggs.netPhone: 417-335-7357When: Nov. 4-10Skaggs Regional Medical Center will

have a wall exhibit near its cafeteria, dis-playing photos and biographies of itsemployees and their families who areactive duty or veterans of the U.S. military.

TRAVELING EXHIBITVIETNAM VETERANS

MEMORIALWhen: Nov. 5-12Time: 8 a.m.-6 p.m.Where: Welk ResortPhone: 800-505-9355Welk Resort in Branson will host the

traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial dur-ing the 2012 Veterans Homecoming cele-bration. This moving tribute to fallen andmissing Vietnam veterans will be open to thepublic.

237TH MARINE CORPSBIRTHDAY BALL

Where: Chateau on the LakeWhen: Nov. 6Time: 5 p.m.-midnightPhone: 800-569-3493The annual celebration will include

keynote speaker Kenneth T. McCabe, whoserved eight years in the U.S. MarineCorps.

McCabe was in charge of the evacua-tion of more than 6,000 individualsincluding PLO Chairman Yasser Arafatfrom Beirut, Lebanon, and participated ina prisoner exchange between the PLO andIsrael. While assigned to the Basic School,Quantico, Virginia, McCabe received anappointment as a Special Agent in theFBI. He retired as a member of the SeniorExecutive Service in the FBI after 21years.

DAILYRETREAT

Where: Factory Merchants BransonWhen: Nov. 6-10Time: 5 p.m.Phone: 417-337-8387

NOV. 7, 2012DAILY


DAILYDAY ROOM

Where: Factory Merchants BransonWhen: Nov. 6-10Time: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.Phone: 417-337-8387Enjoy coffee and cookies and a chance

to meet new friends while relaxing at theday room.

MINI-REUNIONPERSIAN GULF

WARWhere: Golden CorralTime: 8:30 a.m.-noonWeb: bransonveteransevents.com Phone: 417-230-2278This reunion is for those who served

during Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Iraq,Afghanistan and Kosovo.

It includes breakfast in the show room,speakers, entertainment, drawing for doorprizes. The reunion is free to veterans andtheir families. Please RSVP for this event.


VENDOR VILLAGEWhen: Nov. 5-10Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9

a.m.-3 p.m. SaturdayWhere: Factory Merchants BransonPhone: 417-337-8387Find out about many area veteran organ-

izations.



When: Nov. 5-10Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Web: bransonveteransevents.com Phone: 417-230-2278Register with Branson Veterans Events

& Reunions for the week and pick up thesecond Veterans Homecoming WeekButton. The buttons are $5 each and por-tion of the proceeds will benefit veterans.

JERRY FORD ORCHESTRABIG BAND DANCEWhere: Our Lady of the Lake Parish

HallTime: 10 a.m. & 2 p.m.Web: jerryfordorchestra.comPhone: 800-689-3969Jerry Ford’s 14-piece orchestra from

Cape Girardeau will have three perform-ances during the Branson VeteransHomecoming week for big band dancing.The sessions are sponsored by The Bank ofMissouri.

FREE FOR VETSLUNCH

Where: Factory Merchants BransonTime: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.Phone: 417-337-8387Free for veterans; $5 per guest.

A SALUTE TO VETERANSSPOUSES

LUNCHEONWhere: Radisson HotelTime: 12:30-2:30 p.m.Web: bransonveteransevents.comPhone: 417-230-2278Branson Veteran Events & Reunions

will honor spouses of veterans and thankthem for their service while their spouseserved our country. Speaker, entertainmentand door prizes. Please RSVP by Nov. 1.This is a free event.


Medical CenterWeb: skaggs.netPhone: 417-335-7357When: Nov. 4-10


MEMORIALWhen: Nov. 5-12Time: 8 a.m.-6 p.m.Where: Welk Resort BransonPhone: 800-505-9355Welk Resort Branson will host the trav-

eling Vietnam Veterans Memorial.


When: Nov. 5-11Time: 2-4 p.m.Location: Hotel Grand Victorian

DAILYRETREAT


NOV. 8, 2012DAILY


MAIN STREET CRUISESNAVAL CEREMONY

Where: Main Street Lake CruisesWhen: Nov. 8Time: 8 a.m.Phone: 417-343-5079Main Street Lake Cruises will host Lost

At Sea Naval Ceremony.

DAILYDAY ROOM

Where: Factory Merchants BransonWhen: Nov. 6-10Time: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.Phone: 417-337-8387

FREE FOR VETSLUNCH




a.m.-3 p.m. SaturdayWhere: Factory Merchants BransonPhone: 417-337-8387



When: Nov. 5-10Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Web: bransonveteransevents.com Phone: 417-230-2278

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The P.O.W. Network will again host thisyear’s 16th Annual Military Gala &Banquet — Branson’s longest-running mil-itary salute held during the VeteransHomecoming celebration.

The semi-formal event will be held in theGrand Ballroom of the Chateau on theLake on Friday, Nov. 9, starting at 5 p.m.with a social hour, cocktails and dancingbefore dinner. Portraits are available forthose attending.

Once the dinner call is sounded at 6, theevening, patterned after a military diningout with emcee LCDR Michael O. Jones,USN (Ret) and President of the Mess,LTC James P. Schreffler will start with theColors being posted, a moving candlelightPOW/MIA service, military toasts andintroductions of those being saluted in2012. This year Purple Heart recipients andwounded warriors from all conflicts arebeing recognized.

Action Impact Ministries will entertainour guests during dinner with a patriotictribute of music and mime. These youngstudents delight audiences with their rou-

tines. Their message of faith, family andcountry is a special, moving tribute, notonly for the veterans and active-duty serv-ice members in attendance, but for theirfamily and friends, as well. They have per-formed at Fort Leonard Wood for active-duty troops at the invitation of the basecommanding officer after he saw an earlierperformance in Branson.

During intermission, guests will enjoy anoutdoor display of American-made fire-works, produced and provided by localvendor A.M. Pyrotechnics.

During the second half of the gala, a spe-cial recognition, the True American HeroAward will be presented by MOZARKMOAA and then the Patriotism Award willbe presented by the evening’s host, theP.O.W. Network. Event sponsors are alsorecognized.

The evening continues with more danc-ing to the strains of the Moonlighters. Thegroup is comprised of talented veteranmusicians from the Springfield area.

Information or reservations are availableby calling 417-336-4232 or emailing

[email protected]. Tickets are $55 perperson and include dinner, entertainment,wine or non-alcoholic juice for toasts and

dancing. Reunion groups are asked to makereservations early, as seating is limited andno tickets are available at the door.

Plans for Annual Military Gala & Banquet under wayMary Schantag, P.O.W. Network

file photo | Branson Tri-Lakes News

The Fake Warrior Project will hosta Round Table Seminar on the epidem-ic of military impostors at FactoryMerchants Branson in Veterans Villagethe week of Veterans Homecoming.The event will start at 3 p.m. on Nov.8. The easiest entry to the event isfrom the Gretna Road entrance.

The P.O.W. Network’s Chairman,Mary Schantag, and former NavySEAL Steve Robinson, author of “NoGuts, No Glory — Unmasking NavySeal impostors,” will lead the discus-sion. Henry Mark Holzer, the author ofFake Warriors and Fake Warriors sec-ond edition will participate by telecon-ference. Other leading experts andauthorities will be available to answerquestions.

Topics will include: Stolen ValorAct Unconstitutional, now what?; FreeSpeech versus impersonation andmedal wear; Why phonies succeed;Military documents, forgery, file salt-ing and consequences; Self-submitdatabases and oral histories — andhow they complicate factual history;No quick fix, but how a public data-

base can help; How to verify claims,who can help; Fake Warriors II, therevised new edition by Henry andErika Holzer: The SF 180 form andmembership drives.

Robinson starts his book with aquote that can be adapted for anybranch, by any investigator, regardingany doubtful military credentialsclaim: “Those who undertake toimpersonate U.S. Navy Seals, forwhatever purpose, are a disgracefulinsult to every man and woman whoever served honorably in any branch ofAmerica’s armed forces...”

Schantag has been exposing thosemaking false military claims for morethan two decades. As social mediasites flooded the Internet and reportsof claims exploded, the P.O.W.Network reached out to experts acrossthe county for help verifying the tales.An ever-growing team developed, rep-resenting all branches of military serv-ice, including the most elite militaryretirees and experts that could befound. Robinson became the “go-to”expert on Navy Seals.

This past summer, 23 years after it

was founded, the Network found itnecessary to expand. It established TheFake Warrior Project, a Division of theP.O.W. Network. The website, fake-warriors.org, is exclusively dedicatedto exposing those individuals whosteal the honor and glory of legitimateveterans, while suffering none of thenightmares or pain that so many veter-ans face daily.

In its Supreme Court Ruling over-turning the Stolen Valor Act, the jus-tices stated, “And it has not shown,and cannot show, why counter-speech,such as the ridicule respondentreceived online and in the press, wouldnot suffice to achieve its interest…”

The “counter-speech” referenced inthe Supreme Court ruling involvesongoing voluntary efforts by citizensand veterans’ organizations to focusthe spotlight of public awareness onmilitary impostors, to enlist the partic-ipation of the press in that effort, andto shame fake warriors into ceasingtheir disgraceful charade.

For further information, call 417-336-4232.

Fake Warriors Project to host seminarMary Schantag, P.O.W. Network


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Big band dancing set for 2012 homecomingMindy Honey, Branson Tri-Lakes News

World War II-style big banddancing is coming to Bransonthis Veterans Homecoming.

The Bank of Missouriannounced earlier this year it haspartnered with Jerry Ford’s 14-piece orchestra from CapeGirardeau and will have threeperformances during the BransonVeterans Homecoming week inNovember.

“This is the first time big banddancing has been available to ourveterans in Branson,” said DavidCook, president of The Bank ofMissouri in Branson. “The Bankof Missouri’s mission is to giveback to the communities weserve. We are all proud of ourveterans and happy to bring thisevent to them and the public.”

Ford has been entertainingaudiences throughout theMidwest for decades, has per-formed with many national per-formers, and has played for thepast five Missouri InauguralBalls in Jefferson City.

“We are excited to bring ourbig-band style of music toBranson,” Ford said.

Dances will be held at OurLady of the Lake CatholicChurch Parish Center on Nov. 6,7 and 8. For tickets, call 800-689-3969.

The dances are set for 2 and 7p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 6; 10 a.m.and 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 7;and 2 and 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov.8, at the Parish Center on VaughnDrive in Branson.The Jerry Ford Orchestra will perform in Branson Nov. 6-8.

courtesy of The Bank of Missouri

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Women veterans from all services, guardand reserves will be honored at the 8thAnnual Tribute to Women Veterans on Nov. 9at Stone Castle Hotel Conference Center at3050 Green Mountain Dr. in Branson.

The tribute includes a Rose PetalCeremony and Women VeteransAppreciation Luncheon. Retired Maj. Gen.Rita Aragon, veteran and award-winningauthor Col. Merline Lovelace and Missouri’sWomen Veterans Coordinator Amy Bennettare all slated to speak at the event.

Gen. Aragon will introduce Col. Lovelace,the speaker for the luncheon. Gen. Aragon isthe first female and the fourth OklahomaSecretary of Military and Veterans’ Affairs.She is the liaison to the governor for allOklahoma military and veterans’ issues.

She participates and facilitates theOklahoma Military Strategic Planning Groupthat helps ensure the stability and growth ofthe communities and facilities of the five mil-

itary installations in the state. She is tasked todevelop programs that support current mili-tary and veterans individually and in total.

Gen. Aragon served as the first femalecommander of the Oklahoma Air NationalGuard, the first female to command a state’sAir National Guard and the first female ofNative American Ancestry to become a gen-eral officer.

Col. Merline Lovelace graduated fromRipon College in Wisconsin with a major inGerman and a minor in Russian. She alsostudied Mandarin Chinese at PrincetonUniversity and Middlebury College inVermont; earned a Masters from Troy StateUniversity, Alabama; and attended Harvard’sKennedy School of Government.

During her 23-year military career, Col.Lovelace served tours in Taiwan, Vietnamand at the Pentagon with the Joint Chiefs ofStaff. She commanded Eglin Air Force Base,the biggest and best base in the Air Force, andis a distinguished graduate of Squadron

Officers’ School, the Armed Forces StaffCollege, and the Air War College. Afterretirement, she became a best-selling authorwith more than 90 novels to her credit. TheUniversity of Oklahoma named herOklahoma Writer of the Year. For more infor-mation about Lovelace, visit mer-linelovelace.com.

Amy Bennett, Women Veterans coordina-tor for the state of Missouri, will be thekeynote speaker at the Rose Petal Ceremony.She served in the United States Air Forcefrom 1993-1997. As an E4, her job wasInventory Management Specialist.

Bennett has been with the MissouriVeterans Commission since 2010, first as aVeterans Service Officer and, as of last April,Women Veterans Coordinator. In her currentposition, she conducts outreaches for womenveterans in Missouri, prepares reports toinclude statistical data reflecting the numberof women veterans and is senior editor for thequarterly Missouri Women Veterans

Newsletter.For more information or to make reserva-

tions, call Barb Riggle at the BransonVeterans Task Force 417-337-8387. For moreinformation, visit bransonveterans.com.

Women veterans honored at Rose Petal CeremonyBranson Veterans Task Force Women Veterans Committee

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Branson is the home of the Hand In HandBranson Honors Purple Heart Recipients.The event is sponsored by Branson.com.

In April, for the past four years, Bransonhas opened its arms and wrapped themaround the combat wounded of the UnitedStates. There are three days of healing andsharing that goes on in this little communityin the Ozarks. The first time an event such asthis has ever been done for the Purple Heartrecipients and those that attend are so grate-ful to our community for the love, respectand honor they receive from everyone whilethey are in our special community.

Each year a keynote speaker joins thegroup and shares his or her story with theattendees and offers them hope. The 2013guest speaker has been chosen and eventcoordinator, Marlyce Stockinger, is veryexcited.

Chuck Lear, a double-amputee as a resultof wounds suffered in Vietnam, is one of thefinest archers in the world and he will behere for the entire three-day event to sharehis story.

“It was a shock and led to some darkmoments,” Lear said. “We weren’t supposedto drink in the hospital, but I did, a lot. It wasmy way of dealing with the situation.”

He said one day a counselor told himplainly his arm and the leg would not growback and he needed to pull himself togetherand move on with his life.

So began a recovery battle and trying tofind himself. It led Lear to becoming aWorld Champion Archer. He started takingthis sport seriously in 2001 and today he hasmedals and has represented the U.S. in inter-national competition on several continents.He is a two-time Paralympian and a three-time world championship team member,

who won his first major international medalin 2011, taking silver along with two team-mates at the World Para ArcherChampionships in Turin, Italy.

Lear is a humble, quiet man and his per-sonal story from battlefield wounded and“accomplished alcoholic,” to a world cham-pion athlete is a story that offers inspiration,hope and excitement for life.

“We are only limited by what we areafraid to try,” Lear said. For more informa-tion about Chuck Lear’s visit to Branson orHand In Hand Branson Honors Purple HeartRecipients, call 417-334-2360 or visit bran-son.com or veteransgalleria.com. Hand InHand Branson Honors Purple HeartRecipients is set for April 25-27, 2013, andwill include guest speakers, entertainment, afishing tournament, fish fry, motorcycle runand closing ceremony. Registration openJan. 15.

Champion archer to share story at Hand in HandMarlyce Stockinger, Branson.com

NAVAL EVENT ADDED TO HOMECOMING

At 8 a.m. Nov. 8, Main Street Lake Cruises, located atthe Branson Landing, will host the First Annual Lost At SeaNaval Ceremony. Owner Larry Milton is a former Marine.Milton and General Manager Steve Johnson, a formerseabee in the Navy Reserves, came up with the idea.They contacted Carl Dietrich, retired Navy, and he agreedto present a ceremony that would honor Navy veteranslost at sea. This event will be open to Navy veterans, butthe public is invited to board the vessel and be a part ofthis moving ceremony, as well. This will be a chance forNavy veterans to reminisce. Coffee and cinnamon rollswill be available following the ceremony. For more infor-mation, call 417-343-5079

Chuck Lear, a double-amputee, willshare his story in April.

courtesy of Branson.com

PURPLE HEART CITY | Branson recognized as place for wounded warriors

Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley, center, holds a Military Order of Purple Heart flag during aboard of aldermen meeting earlier this year. In May, Branson officials proclaimed Branson a PurpleHeart City, the first in the state of Missouri. Gathered together to witness this event were approximate-ly three dozen Purple Heart recipients, including past National Commander of the Military Order ofthe Purple Heart Clayton Jones, and State Commander of Missouri Military Order of the Purple HeartEverett Kelley. Branson.com hosts Hand in Hand Branson Honors Purple Heart Recipients each yearin Branson, the first event of this kind for Purple Heart Recipients in the United States. A Purple Hearttrail on Interstate 44 is in the works.

courtesy of Branson.com

Make plans now to attend the 237th Marine Corps Birthday BallNov. 6, at Chateau on the Lake Resort and Spa. The event runs from5 p.m.-midnight. This year’s keynote speaker will be Kenneth T.McCabe who served more than eight years in the U.S. MarineCorps. He was in charge of the evacuation of more than 6,000 indi-viduals including PLO Chairman Yasser Arafat from Beirut,Lebanon, and participated in a prisoner exchange between the PLOand Israel. He was appointed as a Special Agent in the FBI andretired as a member of the Senior Executive Service after 21 years.He directed the FBI’s Scientific and Technical response to thebombing of the USS Cole, the 9/11 attack, the anthrax investiga-tion. The cost is $60 per person. Call 800-569-3493.

MARINE CORPS BALL


What began almost 20 years ago when TonyOrlando put on a free concert for veterans inBranson, originally attended by only 600 people,now has grown to become the largest communityevent of celebrating veterans in the country.

This year’s “Tony Orlando Yellow Ribbon Saluteto Veterans” is expected to attract more than 174,000in a week-long, citywide salute.

The concert will be held at 2 p.m. Veterans Day atWelk Resorts theater, a 2,250-seat venue in Bransonon Missouri 165.

One highlight of the celebration is the YellowRibbon Medal of Freedom presentation to an out-standing American who has helped the cause of vet-erans.

Past recipients of the honor include Bob Hope,Box Car Willie, President Gerald Ford, JohnMcCain and the Eisenhower family.

‘Yellow RibbonSalute’ returns Staff Reports

Tony Orlando embraces veteran Alan Babin.submitted photo

VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL WALL

For the 16th year, the traveling Vietnam VeteransMemorial, known as The Wall, will be on displayand open to the public for viewing at Welk ResortsBranson during the 2012 Veterans Homecomingcelebration this November. The official half-scalereplica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, themost-visited memorial in Washington, D.C., spansnearly 240 feet in length and lists the more than58,000 names of the nation’s fallen heroes in theVietnam conflict.

“It is with a sense of gratitude and honor that theWelk Family and the Welk Resorts sponsor this trib-ute,” Dathan Atchison, general manager of WelkResorts. “We invite our visitors and our neighbors tocome experience this moving memorial.”

The Wall is available for public viewing from 8a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 5-11. A special locator book willbe available to assist visitors in finding names.

VETERANS HOMECOMING EVENTSNOV. 8, 2012JERRY FORD ORCHESTRA

BIG BAND DANCEWhere: Our Lady of the Lake Parish HallTime: 2 & 7 p.m.Web: jerryfordorchestra.comPhone: 800-689-3969Jerry Ford’s 14-piece orchestra from

Cape Girardeau will have three perform-ances during the Branson VeteransHomecoming week for big band dancing.

AFTERNOON REFRESHMENTSVICTORIAN TEA AND

COOKIESTime: 2-4 p.m.Location: Hotel Grand VictorianPhone: 417-336-2935, ext. 104

MINI-REUNIONWOMEN VETERANSTime: 4:30-7:30 p.m.Where: Golden CorralPhone: 417-230-2278Enjoy a dinner show, speakers, entertain-

ment, drawing for door prizes. The cost is freefor women veterans and one guest, and $15for additional guests. Please RSVP by Nov. 1


MEMORIALWhere: Welk Resorts BransonWhen: 8 a.m.-6 p.m.Web: WelkResort.comPhone: 800-505-9355Welk Resorts in Branson will host the

traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial dur-ing the 2012 Veterans Homecoming cele-bration.

This moving tribute to fallen and missingVietnam veterans will be open to the public.

BRUNCHGOLD STAR, BLUESTAR MOTHERS

When: Nov. 8Time: 10 a.m.Where: Mid-Town CafeEmail: [email protected]: 417-272-0630The Ozark Mountain Blue Star Mothers of

Branson will host its annual brunch for GoldStar Mothers, mothers who have lost a childin battle, and Blue Star Mothers, mothers ofveterans or current servicemen or women.

The brunch will be held at Mid-Town Cafeon 76 Country Boulevard, next door to DickClark’s American Bandstand Theater. Peopledo not have to be a member to join thebrunch. RSVP no later than Nov. 1.

DAILYRETREAT


SKAGGSVETERAN’S WALL

Where: Skaggs Cafe at Skaggs RegionalMedical Center

Web: skaggs.netPhone: 417-335-7357When: Nov. 4-10

NOV. 9, 2012DAILY


DAILYDAY ROOM

Where: Factory Merchants BransonWhen: Nov. 6-10Time: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.Phone: 417-337-8387

BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCEVENDOR VILLAGE

When: Nov. 5-10Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9

a.m.-3 p.m. SaturdayWhere: Factory Merchants BransonPhone: 417-337-8387



When: Nov. 5-10Time: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Web: bransonveteransevents.com Phone: 417-230-2278

WOMEN VETERANSROSE PETALCEREMONY

When: Nov. 9Time: 11 a.m.Where: Stone Castle Hotel & Convention

CenterWeb: bransonveteranswebsite.com Phone: 417-339-6823 for reservationsThe Rose Petal Ceremony is a moving trib-

ute to women veterans that gave the ultimatesacrifice for their country. The luncheon isopen to women veterans, active duty and theirfamily members.

cont. from 5



Branson Veterans Events &Reunions kicked off the first annualVietnam Veterans Event honoringVietnam Veterans March 29-April1, despite the Feb. 29 tornado mak-ing changes in the schedule.

The event started March 29 withthe opening of the VeteransRegistration and Veterans Expo atthe Camden Hotel and ConferenceCenter.

On Friday morning the openingceremony at the Hughes BrothersTheatre was enjoyed by many vet-erans and their families. OurPOW/MIAs were honored with anempty chair and place setting inplace throughout the show.

Branson Mayor Raeanne Presleyaddressed the audience to welcomehome and thank the veterans fortheir service. Jason Yeager emceedthe show and many local entertain-ers performed and expressed theirgratitude for the sacrifices made by

those who served. That afternoonthe veterans were invited to a hospi-tality room at the Radisson Hotel.

On Saturday, the veterans got aparade, some rode and somewalked, some were pulled into theparade from being an observer onthe side.

They were told, “This is your dayto be honored.”

There were local entertainers,veterans, rat-rods, motorcycles, hot-rods and various others to honor ourhero’s.

Saturday afternoon Dee Tours toBranson hosted a hospitality roomat the Stone Castle Hotel andConference Center with refresh-ments and entertainment.

The closing show was canceleddue to tornado damage to the the-ater that was going to be used andnot being able to get a replacement.

Please note next year’s event willbegin April 4.

When we set the dates of March28-31, 2013, we did not realizeEaster falls on March 31, so wehave moved the event to April 4-7,2013. We’ve all made sacrificesover the years leaving our familiesbehind and doing what we had to

do. This is a time of year to spend

thanking our Lord for His sacrificeand spend time with your grand-children and great grandchildren.Life is precious and for some it istoo short and we don’t want to

interfere with that time of year. We want to wish you all a happy

Easter and hopefully we’ll see youin April.

You can check out our scheduleof events at [email protected].

Vietnam Veterans welcome home plannedArlen Lipper, Branson Veterans Events & Reunions Director

The Showboat Branson Bellewill present a Special Salute toVeterans cruise at 4 p.m. Monday,Nov. 5.

The cruise includes a special pro-gram paying tribute to service menand women. The cruise includes theshow, “Made in the USA,” featur-ing the world’s only violin-playingaerialist, Janice Martin, a U.S.Army veteran, and the male vocalgroup The ShowMen.

“Made in the USA” presents all-American musical selections andChristmas music in November andDecember.

Martin brings her high-flyingtheatrics to the Showboat stage in aunique act showcasing her talents asa world-class violinist, vocalist,acrobat and multi-instrument musi-cian. The ShowMen, five talentedmale vocalists and dancers from allacross America, join Martin to fillthe stage with a powerful blend ofcontemporary harmonies and stand-out solos. Comedian and magicianChristopher James is the ultra-

sharp, uber-funny master of cere-monies and entertainer, and all areaccompanied by the Showboat’ssignature live band, the Rockin’Dockers.

Each cruise features a three-course meal, including slow-sim-mered beef roast and honey-Dijonglazed chicken topped off with thechef’s own golden brittle lemon-

berry torte. All meals are preparedonboard in the ship’s galley andserved in the three-story atrium din-ing theater.

A special memorial service isavailable year-round to militaryreunion groups.

For information, contact, TeinaWoodburn at 800-618-9283, ext.3911.

Showboat to host SaluteStaff Reports

BLUE STAR MOTHERS, HELPINGFAMILIES AND

SUPPORTING SOLDIERSOzark Mountain Blue Star Mothers of Branson invite you

to join us. We are mothers of military veterans and currentservice men and women.

We are a 501C3 organization. We support our men andwomen in uniform. We always work to get items to sendto our deployed service men and women to show themhow much we appreciate their service.

We help alongside veteran’s organizations in theBranson area and participate in veterans activities such asthe November Veterans Village and Vietnam VeteransRemembrance Day.

We are always ready to talk with a family who has achild deployed. Many of the businesses and organiza-tions in Branson work with us on our projects.

Please join us at the Golden Corral on Shepherd of theHills Expressway in Branson. Our meetings are on the sec-ond Monday of each month.

Anyone interested but wanting more information mayemail [email protected] or call 417-272-0630.

— Fran Davis, Ozark Mountain Blue Star Mothers ofBranson


Gatherings Plus is once again honored to hostthe Vietnam Mini-Reunion during VeteransHomecoming. Because of scheduling conflictsthe date has been changed to Nov. 7 at theCamden Conference Center, 275 TangerBoulevard.

We will be serving lunch starting at noon andwill provide first-class entertainment fromBranson stars and door prize drawings during theafternoon.

This is a special day each year for all of us atGatherings Plus and we hope you will join in thisevent that honors our Vietnam veterans and theirfamilies. If you have questions don’t hesitate call-ing us at 417-338-4048 or emailing [email protected].

Vietnam Vetsreunion setPam Brown, Gatherings Plus

WOUNDED WARRIORS TO BEHONORED IN PARADE

Gatherings Plus was privileged to hostFort Leonard Wood Wounded Warriors andtheir families June 9 for the lunch cruiseand show on the Showboat Branson Belle.

It is an honor for us to participate in thiseach year. Because of this association weare arranging for five Wounded Warriorsand their families a complimentary week-end during Branson’s Veterans Week cele-bration.

They will also participate in the VeteransDay Parade on Nov. 11, where locals andvisitors can thank them for their service.Branson honors our Veterans and ActiveDuty Soldiers every day of the year. Thankyou for your service and sacrifice.

— Pam Brown, Gatherings Plus

We are getting excited already!Plans are well under way to

make Veterans Homecoming Weekan outstanding event again thisyear. The day room is our corner ofthe world during that week and weare very much looking forward toseeing you all again.

We are pleased to say we will bein Building 5 of Factory MerchantsBranson, again this year. In factregistration, Veteran Village, lunchand Veteran’s Walls of Heroes willall be in the same general area.There’s lots of parking and easyaccess to everything.

Sometimes the generosity of ourday room friends totally amazes us.Donations for our drawings beganearly this year and we already havesome incredible gifts. Just asmuch, we appreciate those whohave stepped up with a gift of theirtime; the volunteers who donatebaked goods, and spend hoursdoing whatever needs to be done,to make the day room all about theveterans. We are truly blessed.

Would you believe the day roomis coming up in the world? We nowhave our own website, bransonday-room.com. Please be patient withme while I learn this stuff, we aretrying hard to keep you informed.The website will grow as we go

along, so check back often for newinformation. You can even leave apost on the site, or email [email protected].

Don’t forget to bring your instru-ments to join the jam sessions; andfor those who haven’t brought me

pictures yet, you still have time tofind one of you in uniform whenyou joined the service. It will lookgreat on our home town heroeswall.

See you soon! We’ll have thecoffee on.

Day room plans under way in BransonChip and Sandy Milner, day room hosts

Ann Lee, left, presents Chip and Sandy Milner the True American HeroAward for the work they do every year during Veterans Homecoming. Thecouple has operated the day room during Veterans Homecoming since 2006and are gearing up for the 2012 day room now.


2012 BRANSONVETERANS

HOMECOMING BUTTON

The secondBranson VeteransH o m e c o m i n gS o u v e n i rCollector’sB u t t o nwill beavailableat theB r a n s o nVeterans Eventsand Reunion Office,as well as in severalother locations. Theoffice is now locat-ed at ClassicCreations by Nan,2900 GreenMountain Drive inBranson.

There is a limitedsupply of these but-tons, so you will

want to get your’searly. Branson

Veterans Eventsand Reunions

still hassome ofthe 2011collector

b u t t o n sstill available,

as well. For more informa-

tion on how to getyour button, callBranson VeteransEvents and Reunionsat 417-230-2278 oremail [email protected].

-Arlen Lipper,Branson VeteransEvents & Reunions


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Branson Veterans Events &Reunions honored Korea War vet-erans with a ceremony on July 27in Branson.

“(It was) a war that began onJune 25, 1950 and continued toJuly 27, 1953,” said Arlen Lipper,director of Branson VeteransEvents and Reunions. “Althoughthe Korean War ArmisticeAgreement stopped in 1953, it hasyet to be replaced by a permanentsettlement. Our soldiers still standguard on the demilitarized zone,with the constant threat of NorthKorea trying to invade the South.”

After the POW/MIA ceremonyto honor all the POW/MIAs stillmissing from the Korea War, a vol-ley was fired and taps played inhonor of the fallen andPOW/MIAs.

A Korean War veteran from Mt.Vernon, Ill., commented that is wasrefreshing to celebrate life andappreciated the organization hon-oring the Korean War veterans fortheir service during that time.

He said he had been attending tomany funerals in the past few

months and he really appreciatedthe ceremony.

Korean War soldiers celebratedArlen Lipper, Branson Veterans Events & Reunions Director

Members of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913 march to pres-ent the colors at an event honoring Korean War veterans in July at TheGrand Village Shops.

Stephen Herzog | Branson Tri-Lakes News

A SALUTE TO VETERANSSPOUSES LUNCHEON

Many times the spouses of our veterans areoverlooked for the sacrifices they make whiletheir spouse is deployed to far away placesor on maneuvers, gone to sea for months at atime.

They are the ones left behind to take care ofthe daily chores, pay the bills, get the childrento band practice, dance recitals, ball games,you name it, the list goes on and on.Oftentimes on top of all that, the spouse isholding down a full-time job.

This year Branson Veterans Events &Reunions will honor the spouses of veterans ata special luncheon called A Salute to VeteransSpouses Luncheon. The goal is to thank thespouses for their sacrifices and service. Theluncheon is free for the spouse and their vet-eran. Make plans to attend the event Nov. 7, at12:30 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel. Please RSVPto 417-230-2278.

— Arlen Lipper, Branson Veterans Events &Reunions

Retired Capt. William “Bill”Robinson, who is the longest-heldenlisted prisoner of war in American his-tory, was released from the infamousHanoi Hilton on Feb. 12, 1973.

Robinson was a member of the U.S.Air Force, flying as a crewman aboard aKaman HH43B “Huskie” helicopter onrescue missions in Vietnam when he andhis fellow crew members were shot outof the sky by the enemy in 1965.

A photograph was taken shortly afterhis capture, preserving the image ofRobinson being escorted at gunpointwith fixed bayonet by a diminutiveNorth Vietnamese woman in uniform.The photograph became very popular inVietnam, and it figured prominently inthe country’s propaganda campaign. Itwas used on official North Vietnampostal stamps issued in 1967.

Robinson, a graduate from RoanokeRapids High School, in RoanokeRapids, N.C., was only 22 years oldwhen he was captured.

He was paraded around in several vil-lages where he was hit, spat upon andtaunted. Torture was part of everyday

life; for the next seven and a half yearshe endured not only torture, but starva-tion, beatings, boredom and humiliation,and was kept in a cell so small he couldbarely fit into it. He and other Prisonersof War, POWs, were generally given twomeals and about 15 minutes outside eachday.

After 2,737 days of confinement, onValentine’s Day in 1973, the plane carry-ing Robinson touched down inWashington D.C. Robinson describedhimself as feeling lucky that he onlyspent six months in solitary confine-ment.

On April 9, 1973, Robinson received abattlefield commission as a 2ndLieutenant for his valorous and honor-able behavior during captivity that wasfrequently brutal and inhumane.

Robinson harbors no resentment orhostility for his captivity. In 1995, theVietnamese government offered to pro-vide for Robinson and his wife to visittheir country again to visit the site of hisformer prison in Hanoi. Robinson gra-ciously accepted and even visited withthe former soldier who appears with himin the famous photograph of his capture.

When asked about that meeting and hisfeelings toward his former enemy,Robinson stated that “she was very gra-cious and kind” and that “she was just asoldier doing what was asked of her.”

Robinson retired from active duty in1984 for medical reasons, but left withan impressive record of military servicethat included 23years in service, withseven of those being in captivity. He wasone of the first enlisted members toreceive the Air Force Cross in additionto being awarded the Silver Star, Legionof Merit, Bronze Star, POW Medal andtwo Purple Hearts.

As a surviving POW and veteran,Robinson spends ever more frequentamounts of time visiting with militarygroups and school children to share hisstory and teach them the value of honor,dignity and duty.

Robinson will speak at the POW/MIAService of Remembrance on Tuesdaymorning, Nov 6. The service is sched-uled for 8 a.m., at the Welk Resort inBranson and is held outdoors, weatherpermitting. The event is open to the pub-lic. For more information, call 417-336-4232 or [email protected].

7-year POW to speak at ceremony in NovemberMary Schantag, P.O.W. Network

courtesy of the P.O.W. Network


Former military personneltraveling to Branson for VeteransHomecoming will get a specialdose of patriotic entertainment byU.S. service veterans.

Entertainers from Bransonshows and the surrounding areaswill perform in a free USO can-teen-style Veterans Homecomingkick-off show at 5 p.m. Nov. 5 atthe Starlite Theatre, on 76Country Boulevard.

The show will feature JeannaKilbane from No. 1 Hits of the60s, Neil Diamond tribute artistKeith Allynn, Army veteranEddie Stovall and the Platters,award-winning pianist Dino, for-mer USO entertainer and Armyveteran Brenda Meadows, TheJerry Ford Big Band Orchestrafrom Cape Girardeau and others.

“It’s our way of greeting ourveteran brothers and sisters,” saidMeadows. “We understand whatit means to you to be among fam-

ily. Veterans that entertain some-times feel they need to artistical-ly say thank you and embracethose who wore the same uni-forms.”

The show, sponsored by theBranson Veterans Task Force,will be in an open seating format,first-come, first-served.

Task Force Chairman ErnieBradley said this year, while thetask force wanted to hold anopening event, they want it to bedifferent than what they’veoffered in the past or what isalready being planned.

He said they are doing a showcalled “Vets for Vets.”

“It is not a ceremony, it is ashow,” Meadows said.

She said the show will includetap dancers, singers, musicians,comedians and even a 12-pieceorchestra.

She said it won’t be a long,drawn-out ceremony, but ratheran upbeat show.

“For the finale, we’ll be doing‘Dancing in the Streets,’ and thatreally described how Bransonfeels about veterans,” Meadowssaid.

“This show is going to be thebest one yet,” Bradley said.“Veterans entertaining veterans.It is something we haven’t seenfor a while.”

Meadows, who is producingthe show, questioned if a showlike “Vets for Vets” had ever beenorganized in Branson.

She said her goal is to makeshow fun and really show veter-ans how the Branson communityfeels about them.

“This is all about making youfeel good, glad you are alive andit is all about relationships,” shesaid.

There will be a donation box atthe show and sponsorships forthe event are available.

For more information call 417-231-7601.

‘Vets for Vets’ production to be ‘best one yet’Staff Reports

U.S. Army veteran Brenda Meadows, far left, will entertain in theBranson “Vets for Vets” show on Nov. 5. Meadows was part of TheSho-lettes that toured Vietnam in 1968 and appeared on the TV series“China Beach.” After Meadows returned from Vietnam, she joined theU.S. Army.

courtesy of Brenda Meadows

College of the Ozarks will again be host-ing a World War II mini-reunion Nov. 10,from 3-5 p.m. at the Keeter Center Lodge atCollege of the Ozarks.

The event will include a World War II pres-entation about the college’s PatrioticEducation Travel Program as well as a recep-tion for guests.

A dedication ceremony is set for 2 pm atVeterans Grove on the Alumni Center Lawnon campus, where 14 new trees will be dedi-cated to World War II veterans who havetraveled to Europe and the Pacific with C ofO students in the past year.

“The mini-reunions tie to our patriotictravel program very nicely,” said AmyUnruh, of the college. “Right now our pri-mary focus is on working with our WorldWar II veterans because this is the time whenwe can and all too soon, we won’t be able to. We just want to focus on them as long as wepossibly can.”

She said so far, the college has taken 67World War II veterans “to their battlefieldsover the years. Each one of them had theirown personal stories and history and they arepassing that on to our students.”

C of O to honor World War II vetsStaff Reports

College of the Ozarks President Jerry Davis, from left, carries awreath with World War II veterans Bryan Sperry and Herbert Andersonduring a wreath laying ceremony at C of O Veterans Day 2011. Thecollege will once again host the WWII mini-reunion this year.


GOLF TOURNAMENTBranson Veterans Events & Reunions will host

a disabled veterans golf tournament June 6-9,2013, in Branson. For more information, con-tact Arlen Lipper with Branson Veterans Eventsand Reunions at 417-230-2278 or visit bran-sonveteransevents.com.

POW/MIA FREEDOM CARBranson Veterans Events & Reunions will host

the POW/MIA Freedom car in Branson duringVeterans Homecoming week this year. The carwill be at various locations throughout theweek. Visit bransonveteransevents.com orcall 417-230-2278 for the car’s location.

THANK YOUFor more than a decade, Branson Veterans

Task Force board member Steve Weyher hassponsored free lunches during VeteransHomecoming. Weyher provides food for anestimated 2,500-3,000 meals each year, over-seeing everything from the preparation toclean up. The meals will once again be servedfrom 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 6-10 at FactoryMerchants Branson.



FREE FOR VETSLUNCH



When: Nov. 5-11Time: 2-4 p.m.Location: Hotel Grand VictorianPhone: 417-336-2935, ext. 104

MINI-REUNIONKOREAN WAR

When: Nov. 9Time: 2-5 p.m.Where: Stone Castle Inn, 3050 Green

Mountain Dr.Web: bransonveteransevents.comPhone: 417-230-2278This event is for those who served dur-

ing the Korean War and includes entertain-ment, drawing for door prizes and refresh-ments.

SAVANNAH HOUSEHOSPITALITY ROOM

When: Nov. 9Time: 2-7 p.m.Where: Savannah House, 165

ExpresswayEmail: [email protected]: 920-684-0147The 4th ID will host a special hospitali-

ty room at the Savannah House for all 4thID veterans and active duty personnel. Allare welcome to come by and enjoy fellow-ship and camaraderie.

16TH ANNUALMILITARY GALA

When: Nov. 9Time: 5-11 p.m.Where: Chateau on the Lake Resort &

SpaWeb: pownetwork.orgPhone: 417-336-4232All branches all wars welcome, as well

as the public. The event salutes woundedwarriors/Purple Heart recipients. The costis $55 per person and reservations arerequired.





MEMORIALWhen: Nov. 5-12Where: Welk Resort BransonWeb: WelkResort.comPhone: 800-505-9355Welk Resort Branson will host the trav-

eling Vietnam Veterans Memorial duringthe 2012 Veterans Homecoming celebra-tion.

DAILYRETREAT


NOV. 10, 2012DAILY

REVEILLEWhere: Factory Merchants BransonWhen: Nov. 6-10Time:7 a.m.Phone: 417-337-8387



a.m.-3 p.m. SaturdayWhere: Factory Merchants BransonPhone: 417-337-8387Find out about many area veteran organ-

izations.

DAILYDAY ROOM

Where: Factory Merchants BransonWhen: Nov. 6-10Time:8 a.m.-4 p.m.Phone: 417-337-8387Enjoy coffee and cookies.



When: Nov. 5-10Time: 9 a.m.-4p.m. Web: bransonveteransevents.com Phone: 417-230-2278Register with Branson Veterans Events

& Reunions for the week and pick up thesecond Veterans Homecoming WeekButton.

WALMARTTRIBUTE TOVETERANS

When: Nov. 10Time: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.Where: Walmart Supercenter on Branson

Hills ParkwayWeb: bransonveteransevents.comPhone: 417-230-2278The free event includes a speaker, enter-

tainment, refreshments and barbecue provid-ed for veterans and their family.

All veterans in attendance will receive alapel pin.

AWARD PRESENTATION

BRETTS FOR VETSWhen: Nov. 10Time: 10 a.m.Where: Dick Clark’s American

Bandstand TheaterWeb: brettfamily.comPhone: 417-336-4222An award will be presented to preselect-

ed individual during the show. The cost is$31.50 for adults, $13 for children 4-16.Special discounts are available for veter-ans and their spouses.

FREE FOR VETSLUNCH




ed to enjoy Victorian tea and cookies com-pliments of Hotel Grand Victorian.

BRANSON WESTFLAG LIGHTING &

PARADEWhen: Nov. 10Time: Parade begins at 5 p.m.Phone: 417-272-3327Where: Branson WestParade proceeds along Business 13 from

Silver Hills Lane near Walmart north to theSears store where a flag lighting ceremonywill be held. The flag will remains litthroughout the holiday season.





MEMORIALWhen: Nov. 5-12Where: Welk Resort BransonWeb: WelkResort.comPhone: 800-505-9355Welk Resort Branson will host the trav-

eling Vietnam Veterans Memorial duringthe 2012 Veterans Homecoming celebra-tion. This moving tribute to fallen andmissing Vietnam veterans will be open tothe public.

COLLEGE OF THE OZARKSWORLD WAR IIMINI-REUNION

When: Nov. 10Time: 3-5 p.m.Where: College of the OzarksCollege of the Ozarks will again be host-

ing a World War II mini reunion from 3-5p.m. at College of the Ozarks KeeterCenter. The event will include a World WarII presentation about the college’s PatrioticEducation Travel Program as well as areception for guests. A dedication ceremo-ny is set for 2 pm at Veterans Grove on theAlumni Center Lawn on campus, where 14new trees will be dedicated to World WarII veterans.

cont. from 12



VETERANS HOMECOMING EVENTSDAILY

RETREATWhere: Factory Merchants BransonWhen: Nov. 10Time: 5 p.m.Phone: 417-337-8387

NOV. 11, 201279TH ANNUAL

VETERAN’S DAYPARADE

When: Nov. 11Time: 11 a.m.Where: Downtown BransonPhone: 417-334-2296Thousands of people gather in down-

town Branson annually to celebrateVeteran’s Day.

SERVICE AND BREAKFAST

CELEBRATE VETSWhere: First Baptist Church BransonWhen: Nov. 11Time: 8:15 and 9:30 a.m.Web: fbcbranson.com Phone: 417-334-7437Special guest retired Col. Gil Stricklin

who served in the military for 37 yearsbeginning in the U.S. Air Force and com-pleting his career as a Colonel in the ArmyChaplin Corps will speak. A complimenta-ry breakfast will be served following wor-ship.

TONY ORLANDO’SYELLOW RIBBON

SALUTEWhen: Nov. 11Time: 2 p.m.Where: Welk Resort TheatrePhone: 800-505-9355For the 19th year, Tony Orlando brings a

star-studded cast to Branson for a freeshow to honor all of our veterans. The costis free to veterans.



ed to enjoy Victorian tea and cookies com-pliments of Hotel Grand Victorian.

BRANSON LANDING

MILITARY WEDDINGWhen: Nov. 11Time: 2:30 p.m.Where: Branson Landing fountainsWinners of a free military wedding

package, John and Caren, will be gettingmarried in front of the Landing fountains.The event is hosted by Branson WeddingAffiliation.

TRAVELING EXHIBIT

VIETNAM VETERANSMEMORIAL

When: Nov. 5-12Where: Welk Resort BransonWeb: WelkResort.comPhone: 800-505-9355Welk Resort Branson will host the trav-

eling Vietnam Veterans Memorial duringthe 2012 Veterans Homecoming celebra-tion.

cont. from 21

Rolling Thunder Missouri No. 3, madeup of local veterans and veteran supporters,rolled out of Branson and the surroundingareas early May 23 on their motorcycles.

These veterans, who have proudly servedtheir country, met up and were joined byother veterans who were traveling from allover the country.

“Ride For Freedom” pays homage to thenation’s veterans, particularly those stillPrisoners of War/Missing in Action fromall wars.

“This is a special year. It is the 25thanniversary of Rolling Thunder and the30th anniversary of the Vietnam Wall,” saidJohn Williams, president of RollingThunder Missouri No. 3. “Being there isthe highlight of my year. I look forward tothe camaraderie. It is an emotional time tobond with brothers and sisters that haveserved and fought for the freedom of ourcountry.”

I was reminded of the beautiful ritual thatgeese do by instinct each year as I watchedveterans come together from all over thecountry.

This is a select group that is bondedtogether by times and experiences, onlythose who have walked in combat bootscan understand.

There are no strangers among veteransonly fellow soldiers. This year had thehighest attendance with 750,000 veteranbikers and hundreds of thousands specta-tors.

This event, sometimes known as TheRide to the Wall or Run to the Wall, is real-ly a First Amendment demonstration tobring attention to our POW and MIA.

The figures are startling and shocking fora great nation like the United States ofAmerica.

World War I left 3,344 unaccountedPOW/MIA, World War II left 78,537 unac-counted POW/MIA, the Cold War left120,000 unaccounted POW/MIA, Korealeft 8,099 unaccounted POW/MIA,Vietnam left 1,702 accounted POW/MIA,and much to America’s disgrace,Afghanistan has one POW, Sgt. BoweBergdahl, who was captured July 18, 2009,by the Taliban and is still being held as aPOW today.

A staff member of the Branson/LakesArea Chamber of Commerce also traveledwith Rolling Thunder Missouri No. 3.

The 2012 vacation guides and brochurespromoting Branson and saluting VeteransWeek in November were taken and distrib-uted. Veterans were invited to come to

Branson where we honor veterans everyday.

Attending this event in Washington D.C.,were veterans John Williams, Arlen Lipper,Mike Weathermon, Rick Hord, Bob

Womack, Sam Einfeldt, Gordon Kinman,Steve DiAno and John Heltzen, as well asveteran supporters Sarah Hord, LindaEinfeldt, Tammy Kinman, Chris Garciaand Debi Lipper.

Local vets ‘thunder’ into Washington D.C.Debi Lipper, Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

VETERANS, front row from left, Sam Einfeldt and John Williams, and back row fromleft, Mike Weathermon. Bob Womack, Arlen Lipper and Rick Hord, of Rolling ThunderMissouri No. 3, rode motorcycles to Washington, D.C. May 23.

courtesy of Debi Lipper


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• Free Delicious Hot Breakfast In Our Famous Bon Appétit Bistro• King And Queen Beds With Premium Mattresses• Handicapped Rooms With Walk In Or Roll In Showers• Large 40 Inch HDTV’s On Cable With HBO In All Rooms• Refrigerators And Microwaves In Every Room• Free WI-FI High Speed Internet And Local Calls• Coffee And Tea Makers And Hair Dryers In Every Room• Protective Security System• Large Outdoor Pool And Sun Deck• No Pet Policy, 100% Non Smoking• Guest Laundry• Elevator


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After Dinner,Don’t Forget ToVisit Kringle’s,

Missouri’sGrandest

Christmas Store,Where Veteran’sGet Discounts

Every Day!

3010 Green Mountain Drive, Branson, MO 65616VETERAN OWNED AND OPERATED

Our spacious rooms are filled with relaxing andpeaceful comfort, while our huge pool area

makes soaking up some of the rays from ourOzark sun a breeze while your stress and worries drift away! When it

comes time to explore all that the Branson area has to offer, ourfriendly and courteous staff of the Ozark Regal Hotel are skilled inassisting you in making your visit the best ever!Whether you’re looking for theme parks, music

shows, water excursions, water sports, shop-ping, golf, fishing, museums, hiking our naturetrails, or family amusement areas, there all at

your fingertips at the Ozark Regal Hotel.Combine all of this with your favorite ameni-

ties such as free wifi, free hot continentalbreakfast, cable tv, and much more!

417.336.2200 • 800.243.1903

Ozark Regal Hotel...is a place where you come as

a friend and leave as our family!We are centrally located within a few minutes of Branson’s

most popular attractions as well as some of the finest dining you will enjoy anywhere!

www.ozarkregalhotel.com

‘Capitol Hill Cooks’author to visit BransonBranson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Author of “Capitol Hill Cooks, Recipesfrom the White House, Congress and All ofthe Past Presidents,” Linda Bauer will be inBranson Nov. 8-11, signing copies of herrecently released book.

“Capitol Hill Cooks” contains recipes frommembers of Congress, as well as every presi-dent from George Washington and his cran-berry pudding to Abraham Lincoln’s vanillaalmond cake and Barack Obama’s linguini.Many contributors to the book even includednotes about their ethnic backgrounds, favoriteindigenous foods, and fond memories ofmeals shared with others.

Half of the proceeds from “Capitol HillCooks” book sales will go to Helping a Hero,an organization dedicated to assisting severe-ly injured servicemen and women build oradapt their homes for handicapped accessibil-ity, according to a release. The finished homeis then given to the veteran.

Bauer is the author of numerous otherbooks including “Recipes from Historic

America,” “Recipes from Historic Colorado,”as well as “The American SamplerCookbook” series. She has appeared on “TheToday Show,” “Fox News,” “MarthaStewart,” and many others.

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20123rd Armor DivisionSept. 2-8Nancy [email protected] Branson Yellow Rose Inn &Suites

46th Eng BnSept. 3-11Rachael [email protected] Castle Inn & ConferenceCenter

Sqdns & Shipmates of theMidway-Franklin D. RooseveltSept. 4-9Al [email protected] Hotel

78th AAA Gun BnSept. 5-9Rachael [email protected] Castle Inn & ConferenceCenter

1st 8 Inch Howitzer BatteryUSMCSept. 5-9Pam [email protected] Plaza Hotel

20th Air Force (Guam)Sept. 6-8Rose Penrod217-932-4286Location unknown, Branson

14th Cbt Eng BnSept. 6-9Jess [email protected] Hotel

USS Current ARS-22Sept. 6-9Jerry [email protected] Welk Resort

C CompanySept. 6-9Rachael [email protected] Stone Castle Hotel & ConferenceCenter

3rd Battalion, 37th InfantrySept. 6-9Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

USS Canopus Assn. AS 34/AS 9Sept. 6-9Taunya [email protected] Clarion Hotel

Air Force SecuritySept. 7-9Nancy [email protected] Yellow Rose Inn &Suites

590th Trans Co (Flak Kaserne,Germany) Sept. 8-12John [email protected] Clarion Hotel

USS MerrickSept. 8-13Renee [email protected] Savannah House

USS Preston DD-795Sept. 9-12Monty [email protected] Inn

246th Field ArtillerySept. 9-13Pam [email protected] Hotel

USS Guam LPH-9Sept. 9-14Pam [email protected] Plaza Hotel

USS Hyman DD 732AssociationSept. 9-16Sarah [email protected] Hotel

USS LewisSept. 10-14Pam [email protected] Plaza Hotel

Fort Snelling LSD-30Sept. 11-16Fred [email protected] Plaza Hotel

3973rd CDS Air ForceSept. 12-16Bessie [email protected]. Radisson Hotel

USS Tidewater AD 31Sept. 12-16Dean [email protected] Hotel

USS Finch ReunionSept. 12-16Renee [email protected] House

Gamewardens Assoc. TF116River Patrol BoatsSept. 12-16Sarah Hord417-690-4096Owen Zeigler818-868-8139Radisson Hotel

Navy GCA ATC AssnSept. 12-16Kent [email protected] Grand Plaza Hotel

3973rd CDS Air ForceSept. 12-16Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

589th Eng Bn AssnSept. 12-17Rachael [email protected] Castle Inn & Conf. Center

B Co 2/5 1st Cav. VietnamSept. 13-16Frank417-231-4556eaglesway@suddenlink.netb251stcavvietnam.comRamada Resort & ConferenceCenter

526 Ftr Sqdn (Ramstien,Germany)Sept. 13-16Bobby [email protected] Best Western Center Pointe Inn

Lima 3/7 1st Marine DivisionSept. 13-16Rachael [email protected] Castle Hotel & Conference

2nd Battalion, 11th ArtillerySept. 14-16Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

USS Saginaw BaySept. 14–17Taunya [email protected] Plaza Hotel

USS Whetstone LSD-27Sept. 16-20 Pam [email protected] Plaza Hotel

El Paso Army BuddiesSept. 17-21Renee [email protected] House

78th Air Police SquadronSept. 17-20Pam [email protected] Hotel

1st Aviation Bn, Co B PonyPlatoonSept. 18-21Rachael [email protected] Castle Inn & Conf. Center

Air ResupplySept. 18-22Pam [email protected] Plaza Hotel

USS Lexington CV/CVA/AVT - 16Sept.18-23Pam [email protected] Hotel

2nd Armd Cav 2nd Recon Sqdn(1958-65)Sept. 20–23Gene [email protected] Ozark Regal Hotel

630th Engineer Co (LE)VietnamSept. 20-23Jim Fitzgerald870-637-3236870-637-3238Four Seasons Inn

7th EngineersSept. 20-23Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

USS Bexar USS PickawaySept. 20-23Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

USS Laws DD - 558Sept. 20–23Gene [email protected] Location unknown, Branson

Shepherd’s Grove 50’s ReunionSept. 20–24Taunya [email protected] of the Ozarks

F Trp QM OCS (1967)Sept. 23-26Carey [email protected] Clarion Hotel

USS Cavalier APA – 37Sept. 23-27Becky Jewsbury630-879-5909Grand Plaza Hotel

25th Field Artillery,10th InfantrySept. 24-27Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

84th and 62nd Engineer Const BnSept. 24-28Pam [email protected] Plaza Hotel

USS Menard APA-201Sept. 24-28Leslie [email protected] Ramada Branson

7th Avn Field Depot SqdnSept. 25–27Ted [email protected] Grand Plaza Hotel

92nd PMS SquadronSept. 25-28Rachael [email protected] Castle Inn & Conf. Center

US Navy Seabees 36th NCBSept. 26-30Rachael [email protected] Castle Inn & Conf. Center

US LST AssociationSept. 26-30Rachael [email protected] Castle Inn. & Conf. Center

USS James C. Owens DD776Sept. 26-30Pam [email protected] Hotel & ConferenceCenter

Tom Green CountySept. 26-30Pam [email protected] Hotel

USS Sperry AS12September 26 – 30, 2012Pam [email protected] Plaza Hotel

USS Markab AK31, AD21,AR23Sept. 26-30Pam [email protected] Hotel

41st Tank BattalionSept. 27-Oct. 1Renee [email protected] House

USS Enterprise Fire ReunionSept. 28-Oct. 1Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

781st Bomb Squadron Assn,(Army Air Corp, WWII)Sept. 30–Oct. 4Pam [email protected] Plaza Hotel

USMC Postal GroupSept. 30-Oct. 5Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

Branson hosts hundreds of military reunions annually. The list below represents all those known at the time of publication in August 2012.

VETERAN MILITARY REUNIONS

REUNIONS — cont. on 28


VETERAN MILITARY REUNIONS201229th Fighter SquadronOct. 3-6Pam [email protected] Hotel & Conference Center

USS Al Hena AK – 26/AK – 9 ReunionOct. 3-6Taunya [email protected] Castle Hotel & Conference Center

USS BumperOct. 3-7Pam [email protected] Hotel

USS Grand Canyon AD/AR - 2Oct. 3-7Pam [email protected] Hotel

236th Medical Det. HA (DanangDustoff)Oct. 4-7Calvin [email protected] Grand Plaza Hotel

7th Motors Flying AOct. 4-7Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

USS Cowell DD - 547Oct. 6–8Larry [email protected] Location unknown

15th Radio Sqdn MobileOct. 7-10Rachael [email protected] castle Inn & Conf. Center

LEX-ELECTOct. 7-11Pam [email protected] Hotel

Helicopter Pilots Assn.Oct. 8–12Pam [email protected] Branson Woods

46th Air Refueling SquadronOct. 10-14Pam [email protected] Plaza Hotel

Minnesota Korean VetsOct. 10-14Renee [email protected] Hotel & Conference Center

34th Bomb GroupOct. 10-13Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

89th Cavalry Recon SquadronOct. 11–14Rachael [email protected] Castle Hotel & Conference CenterBranson

OV-1 Mohawk AssociationOct. 11-14Pam [email protected] Hotel

Marine Corps AdvisorsOct. 15-18Pam [email protected] Convention Center

Red Scarf ClubOct.16-19Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

3rd Battalion & 71st Air DefenseOct. 16-20Taunya [email protected] of the Ozarks

240th Assault Helicopter Co.Oct. 17-20Pam [email protected] Hotel & Conference Center

Pilot Class 60FOct. 17-21Pam [email protected] Hotel

3454th Tng Sqdn (Warren AFB 1947-1956)Oct. 18-20John [email protected] Location unknown, Branson

1503rd Air Transport SquadronOct. 18-21-Rachael [email protected] Castle Hotel & Conference Center

502nd TCG 605th, 606th, 607th, 608th,AC&W Sqdn (Korea War)Oct. 20-23Bill [email protected] Grand Plaza Hotel

USS Oglethrop AKA - 100Oct. 25-28Renee [email protected] House

Seebees ReunionOct. 26-27Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

8th TAB 25th Arty 2nd Field ForcesOct. 27-Nov. 1Robert [email protected] unknown, Branson

USAF GroversNov. 7-11Taunya [email protected] of the Ozarks

2nd Indian HeadNov. 8-11Taunya [email protected] of the Ozarks

4th Infantry Div.Nov. 8-12Renee [email protected] House

2nd Battalion, 9th MarinesNov. 8-12Pam [email protected] Hotel & Conference Center

Company A, 227th Assault HelicopterBn, 1st Cavalry Div, includingCompany D, 227th Assault HelicopterBn, 1st Cavalry Div. Vietnam EraNov. 8-13Howard [email protected] Plaza Hotel

Peden Barracks, Wertheim Germany Fourth Annual ReunionNov. 9-12James [email protected] Ozark Regal Hotel3010 Green Mountain Dr.

USS St. Clair CountyNov. 9-12Pam [email protected] Hotel

USS Sea Poacher and FriendsNov. 9-13Pam [email protected] Plaza Hotel

20138605th Field Station HawaiiApril 18-21Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

35th Combat EngineersApril 25-28Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

USS Moale DD693April 28-May 2Pam [email protected] Hotel

Mariner Marlin AssociationMay 1-5Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

34th Signal BattalionMay 14-17Pam [email protected] Hotel

USS Dyess DD880May 15-18Pam [email protected] Grand Plaza Hotel

A Co., 1st of the 501stJune 5-8Pam [email protected] Grand Plaza Hotel

70th Engr Bn C (Vietnam)June 7-9Roger [email protected] Radisson Hotel

Berlin US Military VeteransAssociationJune 10-15Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

USAFSSJune 19-23Pam [email protected] Hotel

Wolfhounds 27th InfantryJune 21-24Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

202nd MP CompanyJuly 11-14Sarah [email protected] Radisson Hotel

591st Engineer Co.July 14-19Pam [email protected] Hotel

VRC-50Sept. 4-8Pam [email protected] Plaza Hotel

USS NorthamptonSept. 9-14Pam [email protected] Branson Woods

USS Wallace L Lind DD 703Sept. 9-13 Ed [email protected] Location unknown, Branson

114th Aviation Co.Sept. 11-15Pam [email protected] Hotel

USS Vesole DD/DDR878Sept. 25-28 Sarah [email protected] Ray Gorenflo [email protected] Radisson Hotel

Branson hosts hundreds of military reunions annually. The list below represents all those known at the time of publication in August 2012.

cont. from 27


Branson Veterans Task Force officials won’t have togo far from their office for many Veterans Homecomingevents this year.

Task Force leaders relocated their office from a spaceat God & Country Welcome Center on 76 CountryBoulevard to a location at Factory Merchants Branson inearly July.

In January, the city of Branson accepted control of themall, often called the Red Roof Mall.

Since then, redevelopment ideas have been discussedat a number of city meetings, including talk about asports complex and other community uses, however nodecision has been made at this time.

Task Force Chairman Ernie Bradley said city leadershave committed to allowing Veterans Homecomingevents to be held at the mall, as well as agreeing to allowthe task force to move its office there.

The Task Force is only required to cover the utilitycosts incurred at the office.

Bradley said aside from the fact the new office is qui-eter and provides more room, he said it is perfect forVeterans Homecoming week Nov. 5-11.

“This means we don’t have to run back and forth,” he

said. “If questions crop up, we are right here. The officewill be open whereas, in the past, we’ve had to close theoffice.”

He said while task force leaders did enjoy the space on76, which they shared with Grandma Ruth’s bakery andcoffee shop, the new spot in building 6 at the Red Roof isconvenient.

“We can go ahead and get started on veterans week,physically, because we are here,” he said.

Factory Merchants Branson will provide space for thetask force’s vendor fair, Veterans Village, a lunch room, aday room for veterans to gather and an area to displayWalls of Heroes.

Bradley said use of buildings 5 and 6 at the mall havebeen donated.

“It is going to be excellent,” he said.While Bradley is excited for 2012, he is unsure of where

everything will move the following year as the city movescloser to deciding on the use of the former mall.

“We don’t know what is going to happen in 2013,” hesaid. “Believe me, I’d love to stay here forever.”

He said he does understand, however, that the situationis only temporary and that the city will have to move for-ward with plans for the complex eventually.

Task Force relocates to space at Red Roof MallMindy Honey, Branson Tri-Lakes News

BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE has relocated itsoffice to Factory Merchants Branson.


A group in Branson is working toestablish a local chapter of DisabledAmerican Veterans, but they’re not wait-ing to start serving the community.

Darryl Ostrom, DAV transportationcoordinator, has started a service to takeveterans to and from the Veterans AffairsClinic in Branson.

“There’s definitely a need,” Ostromsaid. “We’ve got veterans who can’t drivebecause they’re disabled, or they can’tafford to pay for a taxi to take them.”

He said there’s especially a need herebecause many veterans retire to Bransonand don’t have family nearby to helpthem with transportation.

The volunteer service started in June,and right now features just one van withsix volunteer drivers that work occasion-ally. Ostrom hopes to eventually havethree vans and enough volunteers thatdrivers only have to work once every cou-ple of months.

And while they’re staying busy, drivingto places like Forsyth, Cassville, MountVernon and Fayetteville, Ark., the need isgreater than what they can help right now.

“We drive 2,000 miles a month,”Ostrom said. “And we have to turn awaythree times as many people as we can

help.”Still, the program has benefitted the

local Veterans Administration Clinic,which has offered office space to theDAV transportation group.

“We’re considered rural medicinehere,” said Mark Mead, supervisorypatient services assistant at the clinic.“We have a lot of patients that schedulean appointment, but don’t know howthey’re going to get here,” Mead said.

He said the new transportation programshould help ease that burden, especiallyas facilities set to open in Springfield andclose in Mount Vernon.

“It’s really lifted our spirits,” Meadsaid. “I think it’s going to be a good net-work.”

Ostrom said the DAV chapter buys thevans, then gives them to the clinic. Theclinic, in turn, provides government cred-it cards to pay for fuel or oil changes.

But the program is still in the earlystages, he said, with hopes to grow as thenew DAV group, Veteran City Chapter 68Branson, becomes established.

He said they’d like to be able to helpveterans in other ways besides just gettingthem to the clinic.

“If, for example, there’s a veteran in

town for an event and his engine blowsand he doesn’t have the money to fix it,we’d like to be able to give him $500 fora one-time thing and help out,” Ostromsaid. “We’re not there yet, but we’d liketo get there.”

Mary Cummings, office manager forthe transportation program, said they’vealready helped a few homeless veterans inBranson, as well.

And those that just need some help nowand then getting to the clinic are alsograteful, she said.

“They love it,” Cummings said. “Theythink it’s fantastic they don’t have to callSpringfield.”

She said one veteran who needed a ridehome was especially grateful he didn’thave to work out an alternative plan.

“We dropped him off, and when hewalked by, he tapped on my window,blew a kiss, and said ‘thank you,’” shesaid. “It’s great to see that.”

Ostrom said there are many veterans inthe area living on “pensions and foodstamps,” who can’t afford some of thesimple things many take for granted.

He said the unofficial chapter has 16members right now, with 50 needed tostart a new official chapter.

He said those that join will soon havethe chance to be charter members of theVeteran City chapter.

The group is also accepting DAVAuxiliary members — anyone with a vet-eran family member is welcomed to join.

For information on the transportationservice or the Branson chapter of DAV,call 417-243-2326. Information can alsobe requested by mail at P.O. Box 25,Branson, MO 65615.

New Disabled American Veterans group startingStephen Herzog, Branson Tri-Lakes News

Stephen Herzog | Branson Tri-Lakes News


A total of 90 American flagsonce again grace a two-mile stretchof Gretna Road known as theAvenue of Freedom.

Tom Goldsworthy, of theBranson Veterans Task Force, saidthe flags, which are taken downeach winter, are typically up byApril for the year.

This year, due to lack of funds, hegot the flags up just in time for theFourth of July.

“Just like they say, ‘Freedom isn’tfree’ and neither are the flags,”Goldsworthy said.

He said it costs approximately$10,000 each year to maintain theAvenue of Freedom, which includesreplacing flags that are worn, torn,faded or missing, as well as main-taining the flagpoles.

He said while they have notraised the total amount needed forthis year, it was important to havethe flags up for the Fourth.

“I felt I had to have them up andflying by the Fourth,” he said.

As chairman of the Avenue ofFreedom committee, Goldsworthysaid he has started turning to organ-izations and individuals to help fundthe patriotic roadway.

“Someone can sponsor a flag for$250 for one year,” Goldsworthysaid.

He said a plaque will be placed

below the flag, recognizing thesponsor and that plaque will remainup for the year. He said for $500, aperson or business can sponsor twoflags, which would have the spon-sor recognized on both sides of thestreet.

Goldsworthy said people can stillhave a flag flown in memory ofsomeone.

He said the cost is $50 and theflag will be flown in the person’smemory for 90 days then shipped tothe flag’s sponsor.

It is one thing to cover the cost ofthe flags, but Goldsworthy said italso takes a lot of work, somethinghe has been doing for more than adecade.

“Somebody has to keep goingthrough there, making sure the flagsare flying correctly and then replacethem when they need it,” he said.

He said while the task force over-sees the Avenue of Freedom, it isn’tonly veterans it honors.

“It is there to honor our veterans,but also our law enforcement offi-cers, it is there for our firemen andfor our first responders,” he said.

He said the avenue originallypaid tribute to only veterans, butafter 9/11, the decision was made toallow honoring first responders.

Call 417-337-8387 or 417-598-0323 or email [email protected] for more information.

Flags flying againMindy Honey, Branson Tri-Lakes News


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Documents

Branson Bugle Fall 2012