Spring 2011 - Vol. 10, No. 1
Armed Forces celebration By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
SCHEDULE
Branson is known for its annual fall celebration of veterans, but now many in the community want to take the city to the next level with a two-day Armed Forces Day Celebration that pays tribute to active duty personnel. “We feel it is important the active duty Armed Forces get as much recognition as the veterans of the past wars,” said June Tillis, interim vice chairwoman of the Branson Veterans Task Force. The 2011 celebration kicks off with a Armed Forces Golf Tournament Friday, May 20, at Thousand Hills Golf Resort. Registration for the 18-hole, four-person scramble begins at 7 a.m. with an 8 a.m. shotgun start. The price is $100 per player and each team may include up to one active duty military personnel for free. “It is like a celebrity tournament, but our celebrities are our active duty heroes,” Tillis said. To register, call 417-337-8387. That evening, the Showboat Branson Belle will present a Special Armed Forces Day Salute. The cruise begins at 8 p.m. When making reservations, mention code 6308 for a special rate. Call 800-417-7770 for tickets. The next morning, Saturday, May 21, the Boy Scouts of America will host a pancake breakfast at the Branson United Methodist Church, next door to Veterans Memorial Museum on 76 Country Boulevard. The breakfast, which runs from 7-10 a.m. is open to the public for a donation and will be free to active duty military and their families. Tillis is hoping many from the community will come out for the breakfast to show their support of U.S. Armed Forces.
Come back for Veterans Homecoming Week Nov. 5-11
• See page 13 for the star-studded lineup “The whole purpose is to have some mingling time with them,” she said. From 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. there will be Armed Forces meet-and-greets throughout Branson. Marines will gather at the Starlite Theatre on 76, members of the Navy will meet at Savannah House at 165 Expressway Lane, the Air Force meet-and-greet will take place at Branson Towers hotel on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, members of the Coast Guard at the Veterans Memorial Museum on 76 and the location for the Army’s gathering is Lodge of the Ozarks. Following the meet-and-greets is a Branson Doesn’t Forget the Armed Forces Show at Tri-Lakes Center on Missouri 248. “I want the meet-and-greets to give them a chance to meet up together and when they get to the show, they sit together,” Tillis said. “We are going to have some great entertainers and we are going to have some great speakers.” Cont. on 8
May 20th & 21st, 2011 Friday, May 20, 2011 • 7 a.m., registration • 7 a.m., Armed Forces Golf Tournament — Where the active duty personnel are the celebrities; one on each team. • 7 p.m., Showboat Branson Belle Special Salute to the Armed Forces Saturday May 21, 2011 • 7-10 a.m., BSA Pancake Breakfast — The Boy Scouts of America will serve pancakes. Open to the public for a donation and free to active duty and their families. • 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Armed Forces Meet N Greet — A reunion of each branch of the military, Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force and Marines. Each will have a special location to come together. • 2 p.m., Branson Doesn’t Forget the Armed Forces Show — A star-studded “USO” style show done as only Branson can.
12674
Page 2 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
The Branson Bugle
14691
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 3
2011 filled with changes for Task Force By Ernie Bradley, Chairman of the Branson Veterans Task Force Board of Directors ith the advent of the New Year, 2011 looks to be Veterans Task Force has turned over the publishing of “The Bugle” to the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of a year of transition and exciting change Commerce & CVB. The for the Branson Veterans Task Force. One name has changed to “The of the most exciting changes for us is our Branson Bugle” to better new office conveniently located on the reflect the community world famous West 76 Country Boulevard wide effort to support at the “God and Country Welcome Veterans and their famiCenter.” lies. We couldn’t be more The new home of the Branson Veterans pleased, as this has freed Task Force will be on the main floor of the Task Force from the Ernie the Welcome Center and will be a place of time-consuming job of Bradley gathering. putting out this important It will give us the ability to host meetings and events bi-annual publication. We hope that you enjoy these for reunions and other Veteran activities. We will have future editions of “The Branson Bugle” as much as we indoor space, patio and decks, inspirational garden, have enjoyed bringing them to you over the last nine information ticket center, clean public restrooms, and years. Of course, the money previously received from our even a “Canteen” to get drinks and maybe some light chow. We’re located at 1116 West 76 Country advertisers will no longer be coming to us and we will Boulevard less than a mile west of U.S. Hwy. 65. Be need to rely on your generous tax deductible donations to help support the work of the all-volunteer Branson sure to stop by on your next Branson visit. Another big change for 2011 is that the Branson Veterans Task Force in the performance of our mission
W
to support the Veterans and Active Duty Service Men and Women and their families. We invite you to visit our website often to keep up to date on all of the Veterans activities, events, reunions, information, and articles of interest at www.bransonveterans.com. And, of course, you can contact the Task Force by e-mail at bvtf1@suddenlinkmail.com or by regular mail at PO Box 128, Branson, MO 65615. Our phone is 417-3378387. Other changes are in the works and will be posted on the website as they occur. Please share this information with all your Veteran friends and associates. And remember that our organization is entirely supported by your generous donations and is staffed by dedicated unpaid workers and volunteers that receive no reimbursement for their time and expenses. One hundred percent of funds received go to our support. Thanks for your continued support and understanding as we move forward into a bright new future. We will see you on your next trip to Branson and look forward to welcoming you to our wonderful new headquarters.
14705
Page 4 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
The Branson Bugle
Task force moves to the strip By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
Branson
Veterans Task Force has spent the last few months settling into a new location on 76 Country Boulevard. For years, the task force’s office has been tucked away in the lower level of a building at the entrance of Pointe Royale. Late last year, the task force was able to work out a deal with the owners of God and Country Inspirational Gardens and by January, had made the move. “I’m still stoked about having this location,” chairman Ernie Bradley said in mid-March. He said as long as he has been with the task force, he has felt it needed to
be on the strip. “The task force needs high visibility,” he said. Not only does the new location give the task force greater visibility, it also provides outdoor space for reunions and special events in the garden area. “We already have our first reunion booked for the garden in September,” Bradley said. “We have a lot of plans for the gardens.” A project to restore the gardens is already under way. Bradley said gardens will be available for use not only to veterans, but also the public for a donation. Cont. on 6
OFFICES OF THE BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE have moved to Branson’s strip, 76 Country Boulevard.
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
13192
Grand Village Branson 2800 West Hwy. 76 1-888-441-4451 www.mulberrymill.com
12668
Mulberry Mill
Free Gourmet Samples • Trendy Home Décor • Designer Fashions • Luxurious Bath & Body Products • Candles & Home Fragrances • Upscale Gourmet Shop Featuring: Cheeseballs, Jams, Coffees, Dips, Soups, Sauces & Drink Mixes are just a few of the Gourmet Specialties!
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 5
Scouts leading garden effort By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
FROM GATHERINGS PLUS BRANSONMILITARYREUNIONS.COM
& BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS AND REUNIONS BRANSONVETERANSEVENTS.COM
W hen
the Branson Veterans Task Force moved into its new facility on 76 Country Boulevard, it received much more than just a building. The new location, known as God and Country Welcome Center, Home of the Branson Veterans Task Force, is surrounded by gardens. Until the task force moved into the building on 76, the location had been for sale for a couple of years. Now, with the task force moved in, they are ready to revitalize the gardens and make their surrounding a beautiful place for veterans and area visitors to gather. “We want to make it like it was years ago,” said task force chairman Ernie Bradley. He said work has already started on the garden’s water features and a few flowers are already popping out of the ground. Still, there is plenty of work to do. The task force is getting a helping hand, though, with the work. A local Boy Scout who is working toward an Eagle Scout rank is leading a project to revitalize the gardens. Garrett Anderson, Branson economic development director and chairman of the Boy Scouts Blazing Trails District, said the gardens will provide Michael Wachob with an Eagle Scout project. “He is a good kid,”
TASK FORCE
MILITARY REUNIONS
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
THE NEW LOCATION for the Branson Veterans Task Force is surrounded by gardens that are being restored with help from local Boy Scouts. Anderson said. Wachob, along with the help of volunteers, will repair and spruce up the gardens. “The gardens really haven’t been cared for as they should have been,” Anderson said. He said surrounding a large flag pole, which holds a 40by-60 foot American flag, will
be an appropriate and respectful garden. The project will be more than adding flowers and shrubbery to the rest of the area. “We’d like to incorporate things that honor the veterans,” Anderson said. Bradley said he is grateful
for the help. “We are an all-volunteer group,” he said. “Right now, we don’t have any paid employees. We’ve got the best location on the strip and we want it to look pretty. Getting help from the Boy Scouts will benefit us, it will benefit them and it will benefit the city.”
CONT.
Another highlight of the new location is an enormous flag that comes with it. By mid-spring, Bradley hopes a 40-by-60 foot flag will flying high, greeting motorists as they come into town on 76. The task force is sharing the location with a welcome center, where people can stop and receive information about the area, as well as purchase tickets. The facility will be set up with four screens where information about the community and the task force will be shared.
Two days a week, Bradley will be in the office serving as a veterans and military-retiree benefits advisor. “People can drop in or make an appointment to meet with me,” he said, adding that he’ll be available to talk to groups, as well. “This is something I’m truly passionate about,” Bradley said. “You’d be surprised how many retirees don’t realize the benefits they have.” The task force office is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday.
USS WAHOO SS565/238, April 7-9, Branson, tank@tomandshirleyyoung.com USS CUSTER APA40, April 13-17, Barrington Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions .com CHARLIE CO. MCB 133, April 13-17, Best Western Branson, fredhut@earthlink.com LITTLE BEAR ASSOCIATION, April 27-May 1, Hilton Promenade at The Landing, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions .com 508TH MILITARY POLICE ALUMNI, April 2-May 4, Branson, dhoink@sbcglobal.com 35TH COMBAT ENGINEER, April 28, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com USS SAN PABLO, April 28May 1, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions .com COMPANY G, April 28-May 2, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions .com USS CARPENTER, April 28May 2, Providence, R.I., pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions .com USS HARRY HUBBARD, May 3-7, Grand Plaza, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions .com USS HALFBEAK SS352, May 10-14, Radisson Hotel, ss352@att.com USS HANCOCK, May 10-15, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.c om NORTHWEST PILOTS ASSOCIATION, May 11-15, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com A CO 34TH SIG BN, May 1214, Branson, lgeneturner1@ yahoo.com HOLY LOCH ASSOCIATION, May 12-15 Holiday Inn, Norfolk, Va., pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 15TH ARTILLERY VIETNAM 1966-77, May 12-15, Clairion Hotel, John6361@ gmail.com Cont. on 8
Page 6 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
The Branson Bugle
14687
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 7
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Persian Gulf War Cease Fire April 11, 2011 This day commemorates the official cease fire in 1991 of the Persian Gulf War and will be dedicated to the soldiers who served in Iraq during Desert Shield and Desert Storm. The Branson Veterans Task Force will hold a prayer breakfast to commemorate the day of the signing of the Persian Gulf War Cease Fire on April 6, 1991. The public is invited. For more information, call 417-337-8387. Meeting for Special Forces April 16, 2011 Special Forces Association Chapter 82, Rocky Versace Memorial Ozark Chapter, of Branson, will hold a meeting and picnic at Pete Rothrock’s home on Pomme De Terre in Pittsburg. For directions, contact Rothrock at pete_rothrock@sbcglobal.net. Terry Buckley, the guest speaker at the November meeting and the youngest member of the Son Tay Raid, will attempt to make this meeting. 2011 Hand in Hand – Branson Honors Purple Heart Recipient April 28-30, 2011 Registration for this event is 8 a.m.-noon April 28. Everyone must come to registration to get an armband, next to Auntie Annie’s Pretzel at Factory Merchants Branson on Pat Nash Drive, just off
76 Country Boulevard. Opening ceremonies will be held at 2 p.m. at the Hamner Barber Theater on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. This is free and open to the public. There will also be a special presentation on benefits for veterans, focusing on women veterans and families. Disabled veterans are welcome. This event is presented by the National Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Officers. This will be similar to a town hall meeting with questions and answers. On April 29, free entertainment will be provided at 10 a.m. at the Hamner Barber Theatre. At 1:30 p.m., there will be a free fishing tournament on Lake Taneycomo. You must have an armband and be present at the opening ceremony, where names for 40 fishermen and women will be drawn in the parking lot of Bass Pro Shops at Branson Landing. Anglers will use pontoon boats. All equipment will be provided. The state of Missouri is waiving the need for fishing licenses. Boats will be provided by Scotty’s Trout Dock and Marina. A fish fry will be held at 6 p.m. at Taney County Airport in Hollister (the location could change).
From 1-3 p.m. will be registration for the Purple Heart Motorcycle Run at Walmart in Ozark. This run is open for all bikers, Purple Heart recipients, veterans and families. To ride or participate, contact coordinator, Taney County Sheriff Jimmie Russell, at 417-546-7250 or 417-546-7185. A closing ceremony will be held at 3 p.m. at the Hamner Barber Theater. Visit veterans.branson.com for more information. BBQ and Casino Night May 21, 2011 Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 913 will host its annual BBQ and Casino Night. Plan to join in on the fun and camaraderie. This event is open to the public. For more information and updates, visit bransonveteransevents.com. Veterans Assistance Benefit Show May 23, 2011 The Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 913 annual Veterans Assistance Benefit Show will be held at the Hamner Barber Theater. There will be a silent auction and much more. The proceeds of this event go to assist veterans in need. This event is open to the public. For more information, visit bransonveteransevents.com. Cont. on 9
Visit ExploreBranson.com/veterans for Veterans Homecoming events ARMED FORCES
CONT.
The show is free to those on active duty and their families. Admission for the general public is $10 for adults, $5 for students. “It is a chance for the entertainers and the community to say ‘thank you’ to our Armed Forces,” she said. Tillis is hoping next year to expand the celebration and add a parade. In most recent years, Tillis said there hasn’t been any big celebration of Armed Forces Day. “Last year we cooked hot dogs here at the Veterans Memorial Museum and gave everyone a picnic lunch,” said Tillis, who is also director of the veterans museum. She said in the fall, veterans are celebrated, specifically veterans from World War II, Vietnam, Korea and Persian Gulf. “This gives us a chance to honor anyone that served in the Armed Forces,” she said. “This is for anyone who served, but we want to specifically encourage active duty to come and see what Branson is all about.” That isn’t the only reason for the new celebration. “It is also about educating us, the public, what the Armed Forces does for us,” Tillis said.
Page 8 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
MILITARY REUNIONS
CONT.
101ST AIRBORNE FIREBASE AIRBORNE A SHAU VALLEY, May 13-14, Grand Oaks Hotel, j.herman33@att.net NAGOYA/KOMAKI AB REUNION ASSN., May 1518, Branson, jaymcee@aol.com USS GRIDLEY, May 15-19, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com NNPU/PM-3A, May 15-20, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 697th ENGINEER COMPANY, May 18-22, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS RALEIGH, May 18-22, Branson, Karen@bransongrayline.com PILOT TRAINING CLASS 54E, May 23-26, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com COMPANY A, 227TH ASSAULT HELICOPTER BN, 1ST CAVALRY DIV. (AIRMOBILOE), VIETNAM 1965-72, May 26-31, Grand Plaza Hotel, chickenman@a227ahb.org 864th ENGINEER BATTALION, June 1-5, Red Lion Hotel, Seattle, Wash., pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS JASON ARH 1/AR 8, June 6-10, Regal Inn, sssl@att.net 55TH & 58TH WEATHER RECON, June 8-11, Savannah House, conradlay@aol.com USS DAHLGREN, June 8-12, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com HILL 411, June 9-12, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com “A” COMPANY, 1st of the 501st, June 9-12, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 180TH RGT HEAVY MORTAR CO. 45TH DIV., June 9-12, Branson, joleta@embarqmail.com USS TULLIBEE, June 9-12, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com DESLANT BOXING TEAM, June 10-12, Branson, carpavic@aol.com 1ST SEARCHLIGHT BATTALION, June 11-14, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com USS FOX CG/DLG 33, June 16-19, Clarion Hotel, habibphil@comcast.net 351st BOMB GROUP, June 16-20, Holiday Inn, Norfolk, Va., pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com C CO. 1ST 22ND INF 4TH DIV. (VIETNAM 196674), June 16-18, Branson, reg10bud@yahoo.com OLD GUARD CHARLIE 4-3-11, June 20-24, Branson, corbin71151@gmail.com 30 FA RGT ASSN., June 20-24, Branson, sretooh2001@aol.com ARMY ONE PRESIDENTIAL EXECUTIVE FLIGHT DET., June 22-26, Barrington Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com CHARLIE CO 1ST BN 5TH CAV. RGT & 1ST CAV AIRMOBILE, June 23-26, Branson, karen@bransongrayline.com Cont. on 11 Are you planning a Military Reunion? If you’re a seasoned planner or a first-time planner, we invite you to Branson’s Military Reunion Planners Conference, Aug. 15-18, 2011. Contact Debbie Chesnokov with the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB at DChesnokov@BransonCVB.com or 800-214-3661 for more information.
The Branson Bugle
12969
VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED
CALENDAR
CONT.
Memorial Day Ceremony May 30, 2011 At 11 a.m., American Legion Post 220 will hold its annual ceremony at the Ozarks Memorial Park Cemetery on east Missouri 76. A number of guest speakers will be present for this Memorial Day event. ‘Veterans Freedom Fest’ June 9-12, 2011 Branson Veterans Events & Reunions will host a “Veterans Freedom Fest.” This event is for all veterans, Reserve, National Guard and active duty. Visit bransonveteransevents.com for updated information. Sporting Clays Shoot for ‘Honor Tour’ June 11, 2011 Branson Veterans Events & Reunions in association with Ozark Shooters Sports Complex will host a Sporting Clays Shoot for “Honor Tour.” “Honor Tour” takes WWII veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit their memorial. Fees include 100 targets, lunch and drawing for door prizes. This shoot is open to the public. For more information, call 417-230-2278 or e-mail bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com. Flag Day June 14, 2011 Do you have a flag that is torn, tattered or worn out? You can turn it in for proper disposal at one of three locations in Branson: Frontier Flags (The Flag Store), 212 S. Commercial Street, the parking lot of the Veterans Memorial Museum, 1250 W. State Hwy. 76, or at the Branson Veterans Task Force booth by the fountain
The Branson Bugle
at Branson Landing. The task force will also be collecting donations at the Branson Landing on June 14 for the Avenue of Freedom. Hours are from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Tom Hayes is the Branson Veterans Task Force chairperson for this event. For more information, call 417-3378387. Korean War Commencement June 25, 2011 The Harry S. Truman Chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association will host a memorial ceremony marking the commencement of “The Forgotten War,” remembering veterans who returned and those who did not. The ceremony will be held at the Ozarks Memorial Park Cemetery on east Missouri 76, at 10 a.m. For more information, call 417-546-3150 or 417-3378387.
Located Just 5 Minutes From Lake Taneycomo & Table Rock Dam. • FREE Deluxe Continental Breakfast • Groups Welcome • Creek Side Picnic Area • Deluxe Jacuzzi Suites • 101 Beautiful Rooms Available • Double Queen Rooms • Handicap Rooms • Flat Level Parking • Smoking & Non-Smoking Rooms • On Site Restaurant & Lounge • Large Outdoor Pool • Discounted Attraction Tickets & Packages Available • Centrally Located Close To Table Rock Lake & All Area Attractions
Spirit of 76 July 4, 2011 Show your patriotism on Independence Day by wearing red, white and blue and join others for free ice cream and a free flag. The celebration is from 9-10:30 a.m. at Branson Landing. For more information, call 417-337-8387. Cont. on 10
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 9
Vietnam veterans seek help with new program By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
Members of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter Anyone who would like to donate to 913 are hoping people in the community can help them help others. “Our chapter is wanting donated medical supplies — walkers, risers, wheelchairs — anything we get, we’ll give out to veterans and their families,” said John Porter, of the chapter. “We’ve got veterans all around this area in need of these supplies and don’t qualify for (assistance) and they don’t have the money.” Porter said the group is looking for everything from walkers to canes, wheelchairs, stool risers, even hospital beds. He said these supplies can be very expensive to purchase and oftentimes may not be used much. He is hoping anyone
the program may call 417-230-2278 or 417-334-0733. who has any medical equipment they are not in need of anymore, could donate so it could be made useful again. “We want to help other veterans,” Porter said. “We want to be able to help the ones who aren’t able to buy these supplies on their own.” If someone is in need, the equipment could even go to a person who isn’t a veteran. This is a new program of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913.
COLLECTORS BUTTON TO DEBUT
T
he first Official Branson Veterans Homecoming Week Commemorative Collectors Button will be available for Branson’s homecoming week this year. There will be a limited supply. The 2012 Branson Veterans Homecoming Week Commemorative Collectors Button will be unveiled during A Veterans Homecoming 2011. A portion of the proceeds from each button will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.
For more information, call 417-230-2278 or e-mail bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com.
New organization looks to make a difference By Arlen Lipper, Director of Branson Veterans Events & Reunions If you’re looking to plan your own military elcome from Branson Veterans Events reunion, we’re available to assist you. We’re & Reunions. We are a new organization in also available to help you with Color Guard, Branson, where we honor our veterans every Bugler and Honor Guard for that special cerday. We say “Welcome home. Thank you for emony. your service and we’re glad you’re here.” We have several events throughout the year Branson Veterans Events & Reunions is here honoring our veterans. You may want to plan to assist you in any way we can. If you’re to be here during one of those events. In planning a military reunion, we hope you will November, we have the following miniconsider Branson and we’re ready to assist reunions honoring those who served, Korean you by putting you in touch with a reunion War Veterans Mini Reunion, Vietnam Veterans Mini Reunion, Persian Gulf War planner to help you plan that special event.
W
CALENDAR
Veterans Mini Reunion, honoring those who served during Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kosovo, as well as Women Veterans Mini Reunion for those women who served in the military. This is a time to meet other veterans who served and maybe run into a lost old friend. This year, we have the veterans sporting clays shoot and possibly more. Whatever the occasion for your visit to Branson, we’re available to assist you any way we can. We want your stay in Branson to
be a wonderful and memorable experience. Branson Veterans Events & Reunions is celebrating its oneyear anniversary. The director has 35 years of military service and five years of veterans’marketing experience. You will Arlen want to check out our website Lipper at bransonveteransevents.com. For questions, call 417-230-2278 or e-mail bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com.
CONT.
National Day of Atomic Remembrance July 16, 2011 The 65th anniversary of the first atomic explosion and all veterans who were exposed to radiation in the line of military duty will be recognized during the National Atomic Veterans Day of Remembrance Observance at the Andy Williams Moon River Grill at 11:30 a.m. There will be a light lunch. Anyone wishing to attend is welcome. For more information, call 417337-8387. The End of WWII Sept. 2, 2011 The Branson Veterans Task Force will remember the historic end of WWII at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Museum on 76 Country Boulevard. There will
Page 10 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
be a short ceremony to commemorate the formal surrender of Japan. This is the 65th anniversary of the signing, which brought an end to WWII, the single most defining event of the 20th Century. On that date, the Japanese formally surrendered aboard the Battleship USS Missouri in Tokyo Harbor. For more information, call 417-337-8387. All are invited to attend. 9/11 ‘Branson Remembers’ Sept. 11, 2011 A ceremony will be held in observance of the tragedy that changed the world, at 8 a.m. at Branson Landing. Ground zero survivor of the 9/11 terrorist attack on the Pentagon, Sgt. Maj. Tony Rose, will be the guest speaker. At 7 a.m. firefighters, police officers
and first responders will be provided a free breakfast prior to the event. For more information, call 417-3378387. All are invited to attend. POW-MIA Day Silent March Sept. 17, 2011 At 10 a.m., a silent march will be held starting from the former Whelchel Funeral Chapel parking lot at 310 S. Commercial Street in Branson. It will proceed down Commercial to Main Street, taking Main Street down to the town square at Branson Landing, where a short commemorative service will be held for those who have not returned from WWII, Korea, Vietnam or Desert Storm. Call 417-337-8387 for more information. Cont. on 19
The Branson Bugle
MILITARY REUNIONS
CONT.
4TH INFANTRY DIVISION NATIONAL REUNION, July 4-10, Radisson Hotel, rldufek@global.net 591st ENGINEER COMPANY, July 10-14, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com IVY DRAGOONS 7TH BN, July 28-31, 2011, Branson, gcoopersburg@aol.com 20TH ENG BDE VIETNAM VET, July 29-31, Branson, gmanint@mediacombb.com USS WHITESIDE AKA 90, Aug. 11-14, Branson, aericson@ccp.com 547th ENGINEER BATTALION, Aug. 11-14, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS BEATTY, Aug. 23-28, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com USS TRUMPETFISH SS-425, Aug. 23-29, Branson, ss425@hotmail.com MADDOX DEST DD731, DD622, DD168, Aug. 2528, Branson, maddox64@aol.com USS SPINAX SS/SSR-489, Aug. 29-Sept. 2, Branson, moodauggy@sbcglobal.net USS WASHTENAW COUNTY LST 1166, Aug. 31Sept. 4, Branson, vicknvnv@aol.com USS L.Y. SPEAR, Aug. 31-Sept. 4, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS HELENA, Sept. 2-6, Lodge of the Ozarks,
pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS BELLE GROVE, Sept. 4-11, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS ELDORADO, Sept. 6-10, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 2ND BN 4TH MARINE (ALL ERAS), Sept. 7-11, Branson, charlievons@comcast.net USS HOLLAND, Sept. 7-11, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS CARTER HALL and USS LINDENWALD, Sept. 7-11, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS RATON SS/SSR/AGSS-270, Sept. 7-11, Branson, ratonagss270@hotmail.com VRC-50, Sept. 7-11, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 20TH AF (GUAM), Sept. 8-10, Branson, akpicture@hotmail.com USS RUPERTUS, Sept. 8-11, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com 398th BOMB GROUP, Sept. 8-12, Radisson Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 10TH INF DIV 8TH CAV RGT, Sept. 9-11, Branson, a.wsanderson@q.com 246th FIELD ARTILLERY, Sept. 11-15, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com
USS PERKINS, Sept. 11-16, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com SPHINX ARL 24, Sept. 12-15, Branson, fironi@mainstreetcom.com 65th INFANTRY, Sept. 12-16, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com AUTOMATIC 8th, Sept. 13-16, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com ACURA AF 55, Sept. 14-18, Branson, ferguson1465@windstream.com 3rd BATTALION, 4th MARINES, Sept. 14-18, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS O’BANNON, Sept. 14-18, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS WAKE ISLAND CVE-65, Sept. 15-18, Carriage House Inn, earlemmacarter@sbcglobal.net USS SIMON LAKE, Sept. 18-21, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS RATHBURNE, Sept. 19-22, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS SALISBURY SOUND AV13, Sept. 18-22, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com ABNAKI ATF 96, Sept. 21-24, Branson, petepilg@aol.com Cont. on 15
13203
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 11
12971
Page 12 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
The Branson Bugle
Armed Forces Day lineup set From the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce
S
tars and special guests of the Armed Forces Day Celebration in Branson at 2 p.m. May 21 at Tri-Lakes Center include Gen. Steve Danner, adjutant general of the Missouri National Guard; Lt. Col. Regina Kilmer, who will sing the National Anthem; and performers The Lennon Sisters; Dave Hamner; Jim Barber; John and Ambrus Presley; The Cleverlys; Yakov Smirnoff; and Todd Oliver and Irving.
JIM BARBER
DAVE HAMNER
TODD OLIVER AND IRVING THE LENNON SISTERS
YAKOV SMIRNOFF
14706
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 13
Tree grove to be dedicated in honor of 51 veterans By Chelsea Kliethermes, College of the Ozarks Tunisia, The ollege of the Ozarks Italy, Netherlands, Okinawa and will hold a formal dedication Iwo Jima. for its Veterans Grove, a Each veteran is honored newly planted tree grove, in with the planting of a Sugar honor of the 51 veterans who Maple, which is aligned with have accompanied C of O others to create the same students on trips to visit his- unique pattern of the marble toric WWII sites. The dedica- crosses at the American tion will take place from 2- cemeteries in Europe. Next 2:30 p.m. April 7 on the to each Sugar Maple is a Alumni Center Lawn. bronze marker with a veterThirty-one of the 51 veter- an’s name. The College ans and two widows of veter- Historians student organizaans, along with their fami- tion assisted with the plantlies, will attend the dedica- ing and will help with maintion. There, veterans will tenance of Veterans Grove. For further information, reunite with students who accompanied them during contact The Keeter Center their trips to England, for Character Education France, Germany, Belgium, office at 417-690-2242.
C
COLLEGE OF THE OZARKS STUDENTS Ben Wilson and Eden Doss walk with veteran Buster Simmons through the American cemetery at Colleville-SurMer.
Courtesy of College of the Ozarks
13202
Page 14 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
The Branson Bugle
MILITARY REUNIONS
CONT.
VP-48 PATROL SQUADRON, Sept. 21-25, Holiday Inn, Norfolk, Va., pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com REUNION 6952ND RAF KIRKNEWTON SECURITY GROUP, SCOTLAND, Sept. 21-25, Box Car Willie Inn, Phrederic1@aol.com USS MULLANY, Sept. 21-25, Holiday Inn, Norfolk, Va., pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 303rd REFUELING, Sept. 21-25, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS MCKEAN, Sept. 22-26, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com USS CASCADE, Sept. 25-30, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 516 ENG CO (PB), Sept. 26-28, Branson, geneogletree@bellsouth.net 516 ENG (HANAU, GERMANY), Sept. 26-29, Branson, tcandwc@yahoo.com 25TH FIELD ARTILLERY, 10TH INFANTRY, Sept. 26-29, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com 304th SIGNAL OPERATIONS, Sept. 27-30, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com COAST GUARD AIR STATION CHICAGO, Sept. 28Oct. 1, Cobblestone Inn, huntspat@centurytel.net H J ELLISON DD 864, Sept. 28-Oct. 2, Branson, jlb@buterbaughhandhandlin.com 7TH INF DIV ASSN., Sept. 29-Oct. 2, Branson, treasur-
er@7ida.us FB – 111, Sept. 29-Oct. 2, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com 41ST AIR DEPOT, Sept. 29-Oct. 2, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com 109TH TRANSPORTATION, Sept. 29-Oct. 2, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com PILOT TRAINING 6906, Oct. 2-6, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com TORRANCE ALUMNI, Oct. 3-6, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS SILVERSTEIN, Oct. 3-7, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com 603th A, C & W, Oct. 4-9, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com Pilot Training Class 6906, Oct. 2-6, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 362ND TACT ELEC WARFARE SQDN., Oct. 4-6, Branson, edetdiehl@nodeinternet.com VW-1 ALL HANDS ALUMNI, Oct. 4-7, Clarion Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS BUMPER, Oct. 5-9, Barrington Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS W.S. SIMS, Oct. 5-9, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com SEAGOING MARINES, Oct. 5-9, Lodge of the Ozarks,
pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com TERRELL COUNTY LST-1157, Oct. 6-8, Branson, clovis43@hotmail.com USS HOEL, Oct. 7-10, Crowne Plaza, Jacksonville, Fla., pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS MONSSEN DD798, Oct. 9-13, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS POLK COUNTY, Oct. 10-13, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS ETHAN ALLEN, Oct. 15-18, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS WALKE, Oct. 16-21, Branson Towers, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 79TH ENG CONST BN (KOREA & GERMANY), Oct. 19-22, Branson, bobbyb301t6@aol.com AIR RESCUE ASSOCIATION, Oct. 19-23, Lodge of the Ozarks, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 31ST ENGINEERS BATTALION, Oct. 20-23, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com 3rd BATTALION, 84th ARTILLERY, Oct. 23-26, Mainstay Suites, Pigeon Forge, Tenn., pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 92nd AFA BATTALION, Oct, 23-26, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com Cont. on 22
13193
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 15
14714
$5 OFF FOR VETERANS & SPOUSES Mention This Special Before Purchase. Not valid with other offers, non-transferable for cash.
14816
Page 16 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
The Branson Bugle
Blue Star/Gold Star Mothers to unite once again By Lisa Soto of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
M
others and wives of veterans were honored in November at the Blue Star/Gold Star Mothers and Wives Breakfast Program at Golden Corral. Ozark Mountain Blue Star Mothers chapter president Fran Davis, along with first vice president Paula Shields and the other members, presented plaques bearing poems to all Blue and Gold Star women in attendance. The Blue Star represents the wives and mothers of servicemembers in the Armed Forces during any period of war or hostilities in which the United States may be engaged for the duration of such hostilities. The Gold Star represents the wives and mothers those killed in action. Original 1947 WWII Gold Star lapel pins, found on eBay, were presented to the Gold Star Wives and Mothers and angel pins were
THIS YEAR’S EVENT
NANCY HECKER, right, speaks to a group of Blue and Gold Star Mothers about Julie Finegold’s, center, Lost Heroes Art Quilt at a breakfast program in November.
Blue Star/Gold Star Mothers & Wives Breakfast & Program • Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2011 • 8-10:30 a.m. • Call 417-337-8387 • Free admission • bransonveterans.com
presented to Blue Star Wives and Mothers. Nancy Hecker and Julie Finegold were speakers for the event. Finegold is the creator of the Lost Heroes Art Quilt. The quilt represents “lost heroes in Iraq and Afghanistan.” Hecker is a Gold Star Mother, whose son, Army Maj. William F. Hecker III, represents Missouri on the quilt. She came up with the
Lisa Soto | Branson Tri-Lakes News
idea of the companion book for the quilt. The Lost Heroes Art Quilt Keepsake Book is available for purchase at $34.95 plus shipping. According to the quilt website, 100 percent of the proceeds after print-
ing costs benefit Snowball Express, an organization which supports the children of the fallen. The quilt can be seen via the Internet at heart2hand4art.com.
12977
1-888-334-7858 Toll Free 1-888-336-3212 Toll Free Or 417-334-5544 Local Or 417-336-5151 Local 3027-A West State Hwy. 76
1-800-351-4644 Toll Free Or 417-335-4500 Local 220 Wildwood Drive
12979
3524 Keeter Street
BEST LOCATION IN BRANSON!
417.334.2915
Email: campground@bransonmo.gov
bransonlakesidervpark.com The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 17
Branson museum honors veterans By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
Nestled among restaurants, theaters and attractions on 76 Country Boulevard is a museum some have called one of the “greatest tributes ever completed to honor our country’s veterans.” The Veterans Memorial Museum was the vision of Fred Hoppe Jr. He was inspired by the stories he heard from his father, Fred Hoppe, and the men who fought alongside his father in WWII. Fred Hoppe Jr. designed, funded and built the 18,000-square-foot museum, as well as wrote the scripts for the more than 2,000 military artifacts he donated for use in the museum. Exhibits in the museum cover WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf and all other recent conflicts. The hallmark of the museum, according to director June Tillis, is the world’s largest bronze memorial sculpture — 50 soldiers storming the beach. Hoppe, who is an internationally known sculptor, created the bronze memorial while building the museum. The sculpture is more than 70-feet long and weighs 15 tons. It features 50 life-sized soldiers modeled after a veterans from each state storming a beach. Fred Hoppe Sr. is the first soldier in line. Throughout the museum, the names of more than 500,000 soldiers killed in action line walls. To welcome museum visitors, a fullsized WWII P-51 Mustang Fighter plane is located along 76. The museum opened in October 2000 and an official grand opening ceremony was held 10 years ago on Veterans Day. In the decade since the museum first opened, millions of people have walked through the doors. Tillis said she hopes veterans who visit the museum feel the gratitude. “I feel this is a ministry to veterans,” she said. “I hope they feel honored.” And, for the soldiers who did not return, Tillis hopes the museum provides the family a sense of peace. “We hope it gives some healing to the family members of the men whose names are on the wall,” she said. Veterans Memorial Museum is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. In 2010, the museum served as one of two registry sites during Veterans Homecoming in November.
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
THE HALLMARK OF BRANSON VETERANS MEMORIAL MUSEUM, the bronze statue of 50 men storming a beach, depicts 50 real-life soldiers, one from each state. The father of Fred Hoppe Jr., who sculpted the piece and founded the museum, is depicted in the first soldier. The bronze sculpture is 70-feet long and weighs 15 tons.
Page 18 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
VETERANS MEMORIAL MUSEUM is located on 76 Country Boulevard in Branson.
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
The Branson Bugle
CALENDAR
CONT.
Veterans Homecoming Nov. 5-11, 2011 America’s Largest Veterans Day celebration, this seven-day tribute honors the veterans who have served as the stewards of freedom. For more information, call 417-337-8387. National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Dec. 7, 2011 A special ceremony will commemorate “the day that will live in infamy” beginning at noon in front of the water and fire show area at Branson Landing. The ceremony is to honor those who were lost at Pearl Harbor and will end with a wreath-laying ceremony in Lake Taneycomo. This is a free event and the public is welcome. Tom Goldsworthy is the chairperson for this event. For more information, call 417-3378387. POW/MIA Service of Remembrance Nov. 8, 2011 A POW/MIA Service of Remembrance will be held at 8 a.m. at the Welk Theatre. Call 417-336-4232 for more information.
‘Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans’ March 29-April 1, 2012 A new event called “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans” will take place in Branson. March 30 will be “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day.” It was on March 30, 1973, that all remaining U.S. troops were withdrawn from Vietnam under the terms of the Treaty of Paris. More than 58,000 members of the U.S. Armed Forces lost their lives and more than 300,000 were wounded in Vietnam. Last year, U.S. Sen. Richard Burr, of North Carolina, introduced a resolution, which was passed by the U.S. Senate, naming March 30 as “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day” to honor members of the Armed Services who served in Vietnam. Organizer Arlen Lipper at Branson Veterans Events & Reunions plans registration on March 29, a ceremony recognizing veterans, a vendors’ village and other events. Contact Lipper at 417-230-2278, bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com or visit BransonVeteransEvents.com.
13056
15th Annual Military Gala & Banquet Nov. 9, 2011 The 15th Annual Military Gala & Banquet, Saluting Strategic
Air Command, will take place during Veterans Homecoming at Chateau on the Lake. Call 866-481-GALA for more information.
Panoramic Table Rock Lake View
3BR/3.5BA 3,079sqft. Low maintenance Living Custom designed & Unique Luxurious Master on main level 2 guest suites each w/baths, 2 exquisite fireplaces bonus 4thBR/office
$619,000
Lake Taneycomo Condo/Boat Slip included
ONE Level Home in StoneBridge Village
2BR/2BA 1,000sqft Remodeled unit! Lake Front community Lake View with personal Boat Slip! Appliances & washer/dryer included Walk a few steps to lake front Community Pool & Lake access 5 mins to Branson Landing by boat! $99,000
All brick home w/ golf view 2175sqft, 3BR/2.5BA Located on Ledgestone’s #1 Green Beautiful gourmet kitchen See thru fireplace. Incredible enclosed sunroom 1st Class Golf & Country club Amenities
$348,000
View ALL The Branson/Tri-Lakes Area Listings At
www.BransonHomesAndLand.com The Branson Bugle
HOMETEAM REALTY
LK@bransonhomesandland.com 2277 Hwy. 265, Branson, MO 65616
417-339-2100 Direct: 417-338-4500
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 19
Army ER chief tells ‘story of the wounded’ By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
F
rom October 2007 to January 2009, Dr. Todd Baker served in the 86th Combat Support Hospital in Baghdad. He was chief of what is commonly known as “Baghdad ER.” “We were in the middle of the international zone, or green zone,” said Baker, who today serves as co-medical director of Skaggs Regional Medical Center’s emergency department. “Well over 50 percent of trauma seen in Iraq came through us.” During his 15 months, he saw everything from battle injuries to heart attacks. His patients ranged from U.S. soldiers Todd and private contractors, to even Iraqi milBaker itary and civilians injured in battle. When Baker and his team first arrived in Baghdad, they only had a matter of days before they were to take over the emergency department and got a small glimpse at how their predecessors worked. “The very first patient we saw when we first got there was a 19-year-old soldier who had both her arms blown off,” Baker said. “They worked through that trauma in 15 minutes. From the beginning, the injuries and the injury patterns were far beyond what I’d ever seen.” During his time in Baghdad, Baker and his team of three emergency physicians, nine nurses and 16 medics treated thousands of critically wounded people. “According to our commanders, our hospital took more direct hits from rocket and mortar fire than any combat support hospital since the Vietnam War,” Baker wrote on his website. “Despite wave after wave of attack, our team never faltered and stood ready to care for our wounded at any time.” Each day, Baker would journal his experiences and before he ever left for the states, he knew he would write a book. “I want to tell the story of the wounded,” he said. “Our soldiers don’t die and get left behind. I learned that the first week. I want to tell the families of those soldiers that died how hard their battle buddies worked to get them home alive and I want to tell them how hard we worked. It has nothing to do with me. It is the system we fell into.” It has taken Baker months to sort through
Page 20 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
DR. TODD BAKER, co-medical director of Skaggs Regional Medical Center’s emergency department, checks a patient’s heartbeat at Skaggs. Baker, who spent 15 months in Baghdad, wrote a book about his experience. his journal, putting his experience into a book. “My biggest fear throughout this has been, a widow, mother, child would read this and it would reopen old wounds,” he said. When writing about patients, he tried to keep everything very vague. On Baker’s website, Baghdader.com, the doctor posted an excerpt from his book, “Baghdad ER.”
Within no time, Baker was contacted, first by the men who served alongside the soldier, and then by the man’s wife, who thanked him for the story. “It has helped bring healing. That is as good as feeling as I could ask for.” Baker’s book is now on sale at baghdader.com. Baker said 10 percent of proceeds from book sales will go to the Wounded Warrior Project.
The Branson Bugle
Event honors Purple Heart recipients By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
Three years ago, Marlyce Stockinger decided it
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
MARLYCE STOCKINGER is organizer of the Purple Heart event in April.
was time Purple Heart recipients were honored. “It was something I knew we should do,” she said. It started as a two-day event that year and last year, Stockinger expanded it to three days. This year, the Hand in Hand — Branson Honors Purple Heart Recipients is set for April 28-30. Registration runs from 8 a.m.-noon April 28 at Factory Merchants Mall, where armbands will be given out to those participating. Registration is free. At 2 p.m. that day, a free opening ceremonies show will be held at the Hamner Barber Theater on Shepherd of the Hills Expressway. Those in attendance will hear a presentation regarding benefits for veterans, focusing on women veterans families. Disabled veterans are welcome to attend. Opening ceremonies are presented by the National Order of the Purple Heart Service Officers and will give people a chance to ask questions and
get answers. Stockinger said before she ever held the first Hand in Hand, she met with several Purple Heart recipients and asked them, if she did this what did they want. She said the all asked for something with “substance.” “Every event we always have guest speakers who speak about issues on Purple Heart,” Stockinger said. On April 29, a free show is planned at the Hamner Barber Theater for 10 a.m. and a free fishing tournament follows at 1:30 p.m. on Lake Taneycomo where the use of pontoon boats have been donated and professional anglers will be on hand. A fish fry will follow at 6 p.m. at Taney County Airport on Blue Sky Lane in Hollister. The dinner is free to Purple Heart recipients and $10 for family members and the general public. The evening includes dinner and entertainment. Cont. on 22
AVENUE OF FREEDOM Honor a veteran, police officer, firefighter or a first responder with a flag on Branson’s Avenue of Freedom (Gretna Rd from Hwy. 248 to the bridge at Roark Valley Rd.) by donating $50 in that individual’s name. The flag (made in the USA - 3’x5’ made of nylon to withstand the weather) will be imprinted with the individual’s information and fly along the Avenue of Freedom for 60 days. Upon retirement of the flag, it will be shipped to you with a certificate of documentation. The individual’s name will also be placed on the Avenue of Freedom Hall of Honor page on the Branson Veterans Task Force website. The Branson Veterans Task Force along with donations from individuals and businesses maintain the poles and 92 flags.
Name to be on the flag: For Veterans: Rank: Branch of Service - Please check one: Army Navy Marines Air Force US Coast Guard Merchant Marines War Served: WWI WWII Korea Vietnam Grenada Panama Desert Storm Iraqi Freedom Kosovo Afghanistan Peace Time POW/MIA For Police Officers, Firefighters and First Responders: Police Officer Firefighters First Responders City ST Zip: Flag and certificate to be sent to: Name: Address: City: Phone number:
ST
Zip:
Branson Veterans Task Force PO Box 128 Branson, Missouri 65615 The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 21
Gatherings Plus specializes in military reunions By Pam Brown of Gatherings Plus
Gatherings Plus is the No. 1 military reunion planning service in Branson. Planners and attendees often say their Branson reunion planned by Gatherings Plus was the best they’ve experienced. We handle everything from blocking hotel rooms, scheduling meals, show ticketing, transportation to
group activities, memorial service and hospitality room set up and maintenance. Welcome packets are provided to each attendee upon check-in with customized name badges, coupons from area malls, an area map and updated itineraries. Since the main part of a military reunion is the hospitality room, we make sure that room is large enough for your group. We also have a personal hostess
with each group at all times. Because of our service, the planner can relax and also enjoy the reunion activities. Your successful gatherings begin and end with Gatherings Plus. Please visit our website at bransonmilitaryreunions.com and let us give you a free quote for your next reunion.
MILITARY REUNIONS
CONT.
PURPLE HEART
USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN, Oct. 2730, Radisson Hotel, sarah.hord@radisson.com USS NEWMAN K. PERRY, Oct. 2730, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com USS ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Nov. 3-6, Barrington Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com 925TH ENG AVN GRP., Nov. 7-11,
Branson, vcmjohn1935@frontier.com USS SEA POACHER, Nov. 8-12, Grand Plaza Hotel, pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com ULIUS A FURER DEG/FFG 6, Nov. 10-13, Branson, shcmpopeyethe sailor@gmail.com PEDEN BARRACKS, WERTHEIM, GERMANY, Nov. 11-13, Ozark Regal Hotel, there.jamesjuliawiebe@mchsi.com
On April 30, a Purple Heart Motorcycle Run, open to all bikers, Purple Heart recipients and veterans, will gather at Walmart Supercenter in Ozark at 1 p.m. then travel to Branson, where they will arrive in time for the closing ceremony at 3 p.m. at Hamner Barber Theater. Last year’s three-day event drew about 80 Purple Heart recipients. Stockinger expects more this year, but she said it is not about the numbers.
CONT.
“The event is a success because it reaches them and it changes their life. It is about healing and having fun,” she said. She said what makes this event different than the fall Veterans Homecoming is the fact that everything is free for registered Purple Heart recipients. Visit veterans.branson.com/2011hand-in-hand-branson-honors-purple-heartrecipients/.
#1 Military Reunion Planning Service in Branson You tell us what will make your reunion the BEST EVER. We’ll make it happen for you.
13145
GATHERINGS PLUS will do all the work so you can have all the FUN!
417-338-4048 www.bransonmilitaryreunions.com 14773
Page 22 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
The Branson Bugle
13201
14843
14842
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 23
12672
Page 24 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans
The Branson Bugle