Branson Bugle Fall 2014

Fall 2014 - Vol. 12, No. 2

Celebrating our veterans Veterans Homecoming honors America’s heroes

BY LAUREN HEALEY LHEALEY@BRANSONTRILAKESNEWS.COM

Veterans Homecoming is just around the corner, and the Branson Tri-Lakes Area is preparing for the annual celebration of America’s heroes.

The celebration, which is held Nov. 5-11 each year, kicks off at 2 p.m. Nov. 5 with the “Vets for Vets” show at the Baldknobbers Theatre. The show is a free USO-style event, and donations to the Branson Veterans Task Force are encouraged.

“I look forward to producing the ‘Vets for Vets’ show in November because when * Veterans I was in Vietnam as a USO performer, I was so impressed with Homecoming the commitment military personCalendar of nel had to each other and to help Events, page 20 those in need, I enlisted in the Army two years later,” said Branson Veterans Task Force Chairperson Brenda Meadows. “But what

many people don’t realize is that when most of us took the pledge to serve and protect, even if it was through a draft notice, it became a heartfelt, lifelong commitment.

Branson is a haven for veterans and active duty personnel, not only during vets week but throughout the year. It is a city of grateful residents that understand those who wore/wear the uniform and their families, are forever loyal to the ideals set in motion when our Constitution was written.

“The activities for veterans in Branson are year-round. Many veterans groups host their reunions here, and they are always welcomed. Branson’s November activities focus on the week before Veterans Day, Nov. 11. We also host an Armed Forces week in May to honor active duty service members. Thankfully, love for the American way is not just in the past. Hopefully, the heartfelt activities that tell veterans ‘thank you,’

Veterans Homecoming November 5-11 ExploreBranson.com/veterans 33750

file photo | Branson Tri-Lakes News

strengthen our future as well. It is heart-warming to be involved in a city that applauds patriots and heroism.”

Flip through the pages of this edition of the Branson Bugle for more information on all the 2014 Veterans Homecoming events.

33748

Page 2 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

The Branson Bugle

Billy Dean leads 2014 Vets for Vets lineup at Baldknobbers Theatre BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE

courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

Billy Dean and the Steel Horses will perform at the Vets for Vets Celebration kick-off show at 2 p.m. Nov. 5 in the Baldknobbers Theatre.

The third annual Veterans Homecoming week “Vets for Vets” celebration kick-off show at 2 p.m. on Nov. 5 in the Baldknobbers Theatre 2835 W 76 Country Blvd., includes Grammy Award winner Billy Dean.

“My grandfather was in WWII at the Battle of the Bulge,” Dean said. “I am all about patriotism and honoring veterans.”

Dean’s recording of “Wave On, Old Glory, Wave On” brought the patriotic song to the country music forefront.

Branson Veterans Task Force Chairperson U.S. Army veteran Brenda Meadows, who did a sixmonth tour of Vietnam in 1968 as a USO entertainer then enlisted in the Army, said to expect some surprises during the event. She is producer of Vets for Vets.

“Some of the great performers will return this year, such as Janice Martin of the Showboat Branson Belle and Neil Diamond tribute artist Navy Veteran Keith Allynn and the World Famous Platters,” Meadows said.

“Dalena Ditto will be our hostess again, with a few surprise cameo appearances planned and some other nuggets.”

Among some of the returning performers include the classic rock band DoGtag, Army veteran Rich Watson from the musical comedy “Smoke on the Mountain” and Air Force veteran, vocalist Janet Turner.

Baldknobbers Theatre Chief Operations Officer Brandon Mabe said he hopes to help make the 2014 celebration show even more successful than last year.

This will be the second year for the Baldknobbers to have the USO canteen-style show at their theater.

“We are so proud of our veterans and the sacrifices that they and their families have made to give us our freedom,” he said.

“Of course, we wanted the show here again. It’s one way we say ‘thank you.’”

Tickets for the Vets for Vets Celebration are free to veterans and their families. The open seating format is on a first-come, first-served basis. Donation boxes for the Branson Veterans Task Force will be placed throughout the theater.

For more information, go to: http://bransonveterans.com or call BVTF 417-337-8387 or 417231-7601.

33752

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 3

POW/MIA Service set for Nov.6 at the Welk POW NETWORK

V

photos courtesy of POW Network

Michael Blassie's mother, brother and sister can finally visit his grave.

“All Hands On Deck!”Patriotic Musical Comes to Branson

eterans, activists and active duty personnel will pause the morning of November 6 during Branson Veterans Homecoming, to remember those held captive as Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action.

With the release of Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl the focus returns to the thousands from past wars and conflicts whose fate remains unknown.

The free outdoor POW/MIA Service of Remembrance is scheduled for November 6 at 8 a.m. at the Welk Resort Branson. Music will be provided by the LeCroy Sisters.

The special guest speaker will be Col. Patricia (Pat) Blassie. Her military relationships include more than her 34-year career in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Air Force Reserves. She played a key role in her family’s struggle to bring her brother’s remains home from his burial in the Tomb of the Unknowns to a final resting place close to family in St. Louis.

Blassie’s older brother, 1st Lt. Michael J. Blassie, gave his life when his A-37 plane went down May 11, 1972, in Operation Linebacker in Vietnam. Originally

Col. Patricia (Pat) Blassie noted as killed in action, body not recovered, 26 years later, the family was finally able to lay him to rest.

Col. Blassie currently serves as Chief, Air Force Reserve Professional Development Center at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia.

For information, call the POW Network at 417-336-4232 or the Branson Veterans Task Force at 417-337-8387. Please dress for the weather. Rain will move the service indoors.

SUBMITTED “All Hands On Deck!” the new 1942 musical is coming to Branson during our Veteran’s Homecoming week this year!

Broadway star Jody Madaras is bringing his re-creation of a Hollywood Victory Caravan road show and radio broadcast to the Branson Star Theatre at 4pm on Fri., Nov. 7 with proceeds to benefit the Branson DAV #68.

A two-act musical revue featuring 42 of Singing, dancing Big Band musical revue “All Hands On Deck” at the the greatest American Branson Star Theatre. One show only, Nov. 7 at 4 p.m. songs ever written and the Victory Caravan Showtime 4:00 pm, Fri., Nov. 7 at the Branson Big Band orchestra, just completed a 28-city Star Theatre, 3750 W. Hwy. 76. A free-will U.S. tour. donation will be accepted for Branson DAV Tickets are free with general seating. #68. AllHandsOnDeckTheMusical.com.

Page 4 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

War Documentary Film Festival during Veterans Homecoming week BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS Branson Veterans Events & Reunions, in association with Branson Imax Entertainment Complex, will host a War Documentary Film Festival. “Ghost Army” will show Nov. 6 and 8 beginning at 8:30 a.m. One on the Korean War will be shown Nov. 10 at 8:30 a.m. and possibly one film from College of the Ozarks on Nov. 7. Please email bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com for more information.

Plans are being made for one of the “Ghost Army” tanks to be on display during Veterans Homecoming Week at the IMAX.

The Branson Bugle

Military Gala & Banquet returns Nov.8 POW NETWORK During the 18th annual Military Gala & Banquet, the POW Network will join the nation in saluting Vietnam Veterans — those who saw combat, those who were support personnel and those who stayed stateside — all necessary for the task they had at hand.

The Gala begins at 5 p.m. with a reception in the area just outside the Grand Ballroom at Chateau on the Lake.

courtesy of POW Network

courtesy of POW Network

Steve and Sharon Robinson, Patriotism Award Recipients for 2013. do not need to be a veteran to attend. Attire for the evening is cocktail wear, formal wear, military uniforms, mess dress or business attire.

The Chateau is located at 415 N State Highway 265, Branson, Mo. 65616. To make reservations, or become a sponsor, as a business or individual, call 417-336-4232 or email info@pownetwork.org.

33751

Diane and Don Shipley, Patriotism Award Recipients for 2013.

Cocktails, dancing and portraits are available for those wishing to participate. Once the dinner call is sounded at 6 p.m., the evening, patterned after a military dining out, starts with Colors being posted, a candlelight POW/MIA service, military toasts, the National Anthem performed by The Bretts, and introductions of those being saluted in 2014 —Vietnam Veterans.

Dinner is served with guests enjoying the camaraderie of fellow veterans mingled with family and friends. The Marines participate in the Marine Corps celebration and cake cutting for the 239th birthday. Guests enjoy entertainment during dinner that is both patriotic and engaging. Even the dessert is red, white and blue.

During intermission, attendees can enjoy an outdoor display of American-made fireworks, produced and provided by A.M. Pyrotechnics.

The second half of the Gala includes recognition of VIPs and event sponsors. The Captain John Koutrakos Patriotism Award is presented by the evening’s host, the POW Network.

Both last year’s award recipients, the Shipleys and the Robinsons, will be in attendance. Shipleys’ “Phony SEAL of the Week” videos continue to bring awareness to thousands on the issue of false SEAL claims.

The evening closes with more dancing to the strains of The Wings of Swing Big Band, whose talented musicians are from the Springfield area.

Tickets are $55 per person and include dinner, entertainment, wine or non-alcoholic juice for toasts, and dancing.

Reunion groups are asked to make reservations early, as seating is limited and no tickets are available at the door. Guests

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 5

35458

Page 6 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

The Branson Bugle

Military Reunion Planning Service in Branson

417-338-4048 www.ReunionPro.com

At The

Barbara Fairchild

Sunday Worship Service Sunday, Nov. 9th

10am Sunday Mornings At The Doug Gabriel Theater NO ADMISSION CHARGE

35546

WE do all the work while you have all the FUN! You tell us where you want to go & what you want to do & we’ll make it happen!!

33753

Branson is “home” but we can work with you on other reunion destinations!!

Appearing Tues. & Thurs. at 10am (2 hr. show) In The Golden Corral Showroom

SHOW & MEAL COMBO

Ask About Veteran’s Discount Limited Seating - Call For Reservations.

417-334-6400 417-339-7949 www.Barbara Fairchild.com 3551 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway Branson, Missouri

35545

3750 W. Hwy. 76, Next To Olive Garden

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 7

Col.Blassie participates in Branson Veterans Homecoming BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE Col. Patricia (Pat) Blassie’s military relationship includes more than her 34-year career in the Air Force and Air Force Reserves. She played a key role in her family’s struggle to bring her brother’s remains home from his burial in the Tomb of the Unknowns to a final resting place Pat close to family in St. Louis.

Blassie Col. Blassie currently serves as Chief, Air Force Reserve Professional Development Center at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia.

She previously served in the Air Force Reserves as Commander, Headquarters Air Reserve Personnel Center in Denver. Other duties included assignments at Scott AFB in Illinois, Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Georgia, support to the Secretary of the Air ForcePublic Affairs at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., Andrews AFB in Maryland, Pittsburgh Air Reserve Station and four years of active duty service.

Blassie’s older brother, 1st Lt. Michael J. Blassie, gave his life when his A-37 plane went down on May 11, 1972, in Operation Linebacker in Vietnam.

Nearly 25 years later, in 1994, Pat Blassie received a phone call that led to the family’s efforts to positively identify her brother. The family was shown U.S. documents stating that in October 1972, five

months after Michael was shot down, remains were found near his crash site. Also found were his identification card, money, his ejection seat, portions of his flight suit and parachute, along with his life raft, holster and compass, all the things an A-37 pilot would carry.

The documents revealed, and the government confirmed, that the remains found were indeed the very same remains selected for interment in the Tomb of the Unknowns in 1984. Lt. Blassie, from the St. Louis, Mo. area, was the only fighter pilot listed Killed-In-Action/Body-NotReturned within a 2500 square mile area of where the remains of the Unknown Soldier were found.

The four-year struggle ended in May of 1998 when his remains were disinterred and identified by DNA testing. 1st Lt. Michael Blassie finally came home to St. Louis, 27 years after his death and a fight that went to the very core of this nation.

Blassie was laid to rest on July 11, 1998, beneath lush bluegrass and fescue in the Jefferson Barracks cemetery’s oldest section, his grave marked by the standard headstone: a simple, 2-foot-high piece of white Georgia marble rounded at the top. More than 2,000 people attended the service and paid tribute to the officer who was finally home where he belonged.

Col. Blassie will be in Branson during Veterans

courtesy of the Blassie family

The Blassie siblings pose for a family photo in 1961. Michael holds his baby brother George, and his youngest sister Pat sits to his right. Judy stands behind Mary, who turns to look at her brothers.

Homecoming. She is scheduled to speak at the POW/MIA Service of Remembrance Nov. 6 at the Welk Resort and will

Vietnam Era Reunion set for Nov.7

attend the 18th Annual Military Gala & Banquet as President of the Mess. She will also address Women Veterans at the Rose

Petal Ceremony Nov. 9. For information, contact the Branson Veterans Task Force at 417-339-6823.

Vietnam Memorial Wall at Welk Resort BRANSON VVA 913

GATHERINGS PLUS Gatherings Plus and Golden Corral will host the “6th Annual Vietnam Era Reunion” on Nov. 7 at Camden Conference Center, 275 Tanger Boulevard.

Doors open at 11:30 a.m. with lunch

being served by Golden Corral followed by an afternoon of entertainment, prizes and lots of reminiscing and fun.

No reservation is needed; just show up for a good time.

Page 8 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

The Opening Ceremony for the Vietnam Memorial Wall will be Nov. 5 at 10 a.m. at the Welk Resort.

VVA 913 Post President Bob Sarver will be the speaker.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Nov. 5-11.

The Branson Bugle

35408-35409-35410-35455

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 9

OTC’s Flag of the Fallen DENNIS PETERS, OZARKS TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE VETERANS SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE

KAT ALLIE created the Flag of the Fallen. photos courtesy of Ozark Technical Community College

Memorial can hold 12,000 names of veterans T

he Flag of the Fallen is a memorial for all soldiers who have served this great country and who are no longer with us. It can be someone who died heroically on the battlefield or someone who came home, raised a family and died peacefully in their sleep.

Its purpose is to honor and remember all soldiers. History will always remember Washington, Bradley, Patton and Eisenhower. The history books are filled with pages in remembrance of their actions and feats. But this memorial will help keep alive the memories and lives of the soldiers who may never show up in a history book.

You may be wondering how this memorial can do this.

Well, this memorial has two parts to it. The first is when you put the soldier’s name on the sheet of paper and your message to them. Then, you place the paper into the flag. Once the flag is completely filled, your soldier’s name will be bonded with 11,999 other soldiers. The flag can hold 12,000 names.

The second part involves an email account that has been created for the flag, flagofthefallen@otc.edu.

Once you add a soldier, you can then send an email with a picture of your soldier with a bio, a story about them, or just a message to them. Once we have all the information from whomever wants to participate, I will create a historical document to be sent to those who participated in the flag. So men like my grandpa, Lester Peters, can be remembered because

Page 10 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

there is greatness in going off to war, coming home, going to work and raising a family. Men and women like him need a place to be remembered as well.

How did this all come about? Well, two-and-a-half years ago, I became the VA Certifying Official at Ozarks Technical Community College and, with starting any new job, I started making goals and objectives to reach. One of the goals was to develop some sort of memorial to honor the men and women who had served in the military who were no longer with us. I wanted something local because not everyone can travel to Washington, D.C. Then an event happened that has forever changed the course of my life. On Oct. 6, 2013, in Afghanistan my son, SA Sgt. Joseph M. Peters, was killed in a raid on a high-value target in Kandahar, Afghanistan. So in the eight months following his death, I attended many memorials honoring his service and met hundreds of soldiers and hundreds of people who had lost a loved one in war and they all had stories about their loved ones. I, who am finishing my master’s in American history, realized these stories and these men and women would be lost in the annals of history if someone did not do something.

Enter the dreammaker of this flag, her name is Kat Allie.

She is an artist and the department chair of humanities for Ozarks Technical Community College. I contacted her about

a piece of interactive art she had created previously, which is a wish wall, and asked if she could make a flag for me. She not only made this beautiful flag, but her dad made the frame and easel and her husband helped in the creation of the flag.

They also absorbed the cost of the entire piece.

Without Kat and her family, I would still be dreaming about a memorial — they made my goal, dream and wish come true. What I did not know two-and-a-half years ago when I made the goal to create a memorial for the local soldiers that my son SA Sgt. Joseph M. Peters would be one of the first ones added to the memorial.

I hope you will all add a name to this flag.

For more information, contact Dennis Peters at 417-4476968 or petersd@otc.edu.

The Branson Bugle

The Invisible Family KRISTIN STOWERS, AGE 12 It is hard to realize that these amazing people who gave up their lives to save and protect our nation and its people are gone ... It makes you see that life is not just a fairy tale ending that we were taught as children, we were taught that it was going to be okay in the end.

We now realize you can’t win every battle you enter. Some don’t make it home to their families, but you have to say to yourself. We were put to the test to complete life a way that we see fit and once you have completed your mission, you wait patiently in your favorite place that you have always found comfortable. Where you wait to see your family that has not yet completed their missions. I know it is hard to cope with what you are going through — I had to deal with it, but in a different way.

My mother had a brain tumor and had to have surgery on my first day of kindergarten and had a stroke later on. Our house caught on fire in my fourth-grade year and we had to live in a hotel for three months. My father was diagnosed

with post traumatic stress disorder and we as a family have to deal with the other sufferings each day.

In the last few months, we have discovered many other things have gone wrong in our relationship with each other causing more pain than intended. We have not gotten the chance to talk to each other about our problems at home and since the VA does not implement family counseling in their facilities, but they do have spouse counseling. Having said that, I would like to say that the injuries affect the whole family, not just the spouse.

PTSD is like a black hole: you get sucked in without even knowing what is happening around you.

You’re hoping that tomorrow will be better than today, but still hoping that when you come from school or work that the stress has not overcome them and they are laying in their chair ... silent ... dead. With the help of the VA, it is still progressing, but still worse than before. It makes me think that he is floating away in a bubble, but God will not leave him without a

fight. To this day he is in a battle with PTSD and the prize of the battle is him and us — his family and friends. We are hoping that he wins, but you never know what the outcome will be. That is why we are all here. Every person in the world with PTSD is in a battle.

Some lost and some still lead victorious and I trust him to be victorious.

All I ever wanted is for the pain to end, and many of you may be thinking the same thing, and I know this is overused, but it will heal with time. I will promise you that it will get better even if it doesn’t look like it. Just think they want you to carry on with your life even if it is looking grim at the moment.

It takes guts to take that chance that you will never see your smiling family that on the inside is torn from your choices, but know that they are the right ones.

It makes me realize that I will not have a perfect life and no one ever will with our missions, and the people that finish theirs when you’re not ready to let go of the

memories that you had together.

The memories that will and have impacted your world and will leave a crater that you have to live with and have to move on even if you can’t. The thoughts and the people will ever be imprinted in our minds and will never leave because the pain will always be demanding. People always think that war is just a thing that can be stopped on the spot, but they don’t know the aftershock of the explosion that is a death or an injury that is fatal.

The people that saved us from ourselves and different countries that are or were threatening us, they saved us and our nation from danger and the problems of life.

Heroes and inspirations are these people that risked their own life to save the people that are going to change a million lives or just a

few. Humans like this are my inspiration and I hope to be just like them; they changed a thousand people; a thousand points of views on life; and a 12-year-old girl who is striving to be an inspiration just like them later on in life.

Many young people have their favorite bands and/or actors as their people to look up to, and sure I have my own, but I have many leaders in my life. Some I can’t name but they changed my life no matter what they did to protect me, my family and my neighbors.

They will be remembered as the ones that grew up as the kids that were big-hearted and the ones that were strong and brave. The reason we are here is these people wanted to save us and that is what they did and they bought us time.

Time to spend thinking of ways to buy us more time. These warriors spent their lives saving their family and friends and their generations and so on. These are the people that are my heroes and my saviors at the time of need and always will be.

Kristin M. Stowers (age 12) Kansas Steven R. Stowers (father) Angela M. Stowers (mother) Email -stevestowers@cox.net or email -stowersam@yahoo.com.

33781

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 11

Wheels for Freedom Car Show salutes Armed Forces Week BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE

T

he Branson Veterans Task Force is making plans for the second annual Wheels for Freedom Car Show 2015.

Despite stormy weather, classic car, truck, motorcycle and military vehicle enthusiasts converged in Branson for the inaugural “Wheels for Freedom” Car Show, May 16-18, 2014. They came to honor active duty military personnel during Armed Forces weekend and to vie for trophies.

“We are so proud of the way Branson

honors veterans and those serving now,” said Brenda Meadows, BVTF chairperson. “It is very special to be appreciated while our families wait, wonder and pray. It is important to keep the public aware of the sacrifices being made right now. Those of us that have worn the uniforms remember why.”

The Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF) hosted the event, with supporting sponsors J.W. Franklin Company, 3265 Falls Parkway, Falls Shopping

Center, Doc’s Hickory Roadhouse and the Lodge at the Falls.

“I was in service when Vietnam was at its peak. There was no respect given to our troops then. I want to see honor given to the ones serving now,” said Lodge at the Falls owner Wayne Gillam.

Trophies were presented for the best in each category, which included military, wrapped, motorcycle and other themes.

“The 2015 event will be bigger and

better,” Meadows said. “We had some great learning lessons and suggestions after this first car show. We are excited about next year!”

The 2015 Wheels for Freedom will include a shooting competition for veterans, active military and the local community at the nearby Robert “Bobby” Brazil Memorial Range.

For more information, please visit bransonveterans.com or call the Branson Veterans Task Force at 417-337-8387.

photos courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

Betty Hartzell, 89, excitedly kisses her first trophy at the Wheels for Freedom Car Show on May 18.

Page 12 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

From left, car show winners display their trophies. Ed Erwin, Steve Kinworthy, Bill Webb, Jerry Starling, Gary Merrill, Branson Veterans Task Force Chairperson Brenda Meadows, Krish Hartzell, Betty Hartzell, David “DJ” Haack.

The Branson Bugle

Cohesion,camaraderie and comfort bring veterans to Branson I have been in Branson for about eight years, and the warm welcome this city extends to veterans never ceases to amaze me.

But it’s not just the city, businesses and residents that throw their warm arms of welcome to us vets.

There is an overwhelming closeness veterans experience with each other while they are here. It’s the extraordinary warmth in their eyes when they recognize a fellow patriot that served. It’s the cohesion, camaraderie and comfort that veterans extend to each other.

But, it actually goes much deeper than that.

It’s cathartic. It’s a medicine for those of us who have shared some of the same experiences, wore the identical issued uniforms or fought the same bat-

BRENDA MEADOWS BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE

tles.

Speaking of battles, this has been a very tough year for me. It seems I was exposed to many toxic chemicals while in basic training at Ft. McClellan in Anniston, Ala. and as a result, contracted multiple myeloma (a type of blood/bone marrow cancer). I am still traveling weekly to the Little Rock VA for chemotherapy treatments.

Since I was in a great deal of pain and had some rough roads

ahead of me, I was not pulling my weight as chairperson for the Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF). I attempted to take a leave of absence or even possibly resign as chairperson for the good of the Task Force, but they wouldn’t let me.

The members of the board just pulled together and let me start the healing process. Vice Chair Barb Riggle and board member Mary Schantag have manned the BVTF office and attended many other organizations’ meetings, and so much more. Other members with businesses and family duties prayed for me, called and texted me and even came over to my house to visit me to see if I needed anything. I received a great deal of encouragement from Greg Schnapp, who is

going through cancer treatments and surgeries himself.

Since I couldn’t drive, board member June Tillis drove me where I needed to go. Former Women’s Rose Petal Ceremony Committee Chair Dayle Goldsworthy drove me to Little Rock and other appointments many times and brought me fresh vegetables from her garden. Air Force veteran and vocalist Janet Turner also drove me to appointments and has

been a great help to me in explaining what is actually available to me through the VA clinic where she works. Such support and comfort is a miracle these days.

I have also received gifts, phone calls and cards of encouragement from veterans I briefly met who are from outside of Branson. People I either met when I sang for them, greeted them at BVTF events or just met on the streets. WOW! Just a five-minute conversation, and we became members of a strong, cohesive family.

Branson is a very special place, and while the events dedicated to veterans introduce them to this city, it is vets connecting with other vets who served that is Branson’s main attraction.

33784

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 13

Avenue of Freedom overcomes vandals and high winds BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE

V

andals and high winds haven’t kept a two-mile stretch known as the Avenue of Freedom along Gretna Road from Highway 248 West to the bridge at Roark Valley Road from honoring American heroes. Thanks to the efforts of local Army Vietnam Veteran Tom Goldsworthy, flags with memorial plaques have been replaced even though they were damaged.

“The weather this past year has been hard on the flags,” Goldsworthy said. “Then some rude people knocked down the plaques of the names of those being honored. We had to replace the rods that held them with stronger, heavier ones. I just don’t know what pleasure someone would get out of knocking those down.”

The “Avenue of Freedom” was designed by the Branson Board of Aldermen and members of the Branson Veterans Task Force on Nov. 14, 2001, and established to

honor U.S. veterans who gave their lives for freedom. It is also recognized as a memorial to the approximately 3,000 people who died in the multiple terrorist attacks that took place on Sept. 11, 2001.

A few members from community organizations, shows and veteran service clubs have used their personal accounts to keep a few flags flying. The Branson Veterans Task Force maintains the flags that are displayed on light poles in the highway’s center, but its preservation has become costly to the organization. Although 2014 has seen more flags sponsored than in past years, the passing of time tends to cause fewer people to be informed about the Avenue and the process to reflag it.

Goldsworthy, committee chair, who took over the role of finding sponsors, said most donations for memorial flags have come from people who have visited Branson and were touched when they saw

the flags along the road. One woman made a donation and mailed it in a letter that read, “Enclosed is a donation towards the flags you put up and fly on the Avenue of Freedom. I always enjoy driving there and seeing the flags.”

Such gifts have been few and far between in past years, so Goldsworthy took to using his personal funds.

“People have asked me, ‘Why is it so important to you that you put money and time into this?”’

Goldsworthy said. “There are people in Branson who enjoy seeing the flags flying. It shows their patriotism. It gives those people whose names are on there a feeling of pride that they served their country the best they could.”

With a donation of $50, an American flag is prepared with the name and information of the honoree placed on a plaque below the flag. It is flown along the Avenue of Freedom for about two to three

file photo | Branson Tri-Lakes News

The Avenue of Freedom in Branson, MO, needs sponsors to keep flags waving. months then shipped to the donor/recipient with a certificate.

The name of the person being honored is placed on the BVTF website on the Avenue of Freedom Wall of Honor page at bransonveterans.com. The 3’-by-5’ nylon flags are made in the USA and made to withstand inclement weather.

“The other day a kid asked me, ‘What’s an infantryman?’ It made me sad,” Goldsworthy said. “I

imagine those people that vandalized the Avenue of Freedom were not told of the sacrifices people have made for them. Now everybody’s talking about gun control.

They’re waving flags, but they don’t want to keep that flag up there waving.”

To sponsor a flag, become a corporate sponsor or make a donation, contact the Branson Veterans Task Force, 417-337-8387 or Tom Goldsworthy, 417-598-0323.

Branson Veterans Events & Reunions Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Celebration LYNDEE LIPPER, BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS We are so honored to host the “Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Celebration” every year. Having so many veterans from the Vietnam era gather together is always an amazing time.

We learn so much from the men and women who selflessly served their country during a time when serving wasn’t popular. These men and women carry such a strength that leaves me awed. My father served during the Vietnam War and knowing the shame that was forced on him from an ungrateful country makes

Page 14 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

my mission to thank these men and women even more important.

Opening Ceremony at the Clay Cooper Theatre was a fun time for all. The entertainers were outstanding, giving top notch performances. Mr. Clay Cooper was the MC, while Voices of Glory, Bucky Heard, Jason Yeager, Casey Dodds, Sons of Britches, George Dyer and others gave our Vietnam Veterans a wonderful kick off to Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Celebration.

Our sincere hope is for Vietnam Veterans to know that we appreciate their service and sacrifice for us and for our country. We will never be able to say it enough or put enough emphasis on it, but “Thank You” from the bottom of our hearts.

We hope you will join us next year March 25-29, 2015, for our next Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Celebration.

Lyndee Lipper

The Branson Bugle

BransonVeterans Events & Reunions presents a Military Ball BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS When you asked us for a Military Ball, we were listening. Many of you have asked us over the last few years to consider putting a ball together, one that doesn’t just celebrate the Marine Corps, but one that recognizes and celebrates each branch of the military.

At your request, Branson Veterans Events & Reunions will host its very first Military Ball, celebrating the Air

Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Merchant Marines. Join us on Nov. 6, 2014, at 6 p.m., at the Radisson Hotel. We have a very special evening planned for our guests, including a full band, dancing, dinner, and a cash bar. Photography will be provided by Dave Cain of Flash Photo.

Ladies and gentlemen, this is a night you don’t want to

HOME FRONT SHOOT OUT | Task Force organizes tournament

Lauren Healey | Branson Tri-Lakes News

BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE BOARD MEMBER BARB RIGGLE, from left, POW Network Chairwoman MARY SCHANTAG, KRISTINA GILBERT, and Home Front Shoot Out organizer NICHOLE AMBEGIA share a laugh while taking a break from the first Home Front Shoot Out in August. The tournament aims to bridge the gap between generations of veterans.

Another event is planned for May.

miss. This is an opportunity to put on your dancing shoes and cut footloose. Business attire, but you have the option of black tie. If you have questions or would like to purchase tickets, you can call Lyndee Lipper at 209-614-9312 or Arlen Lipper at 417-230-2278. Tickets are limited and sold on a first-come, first-served basis. All major credit cards are accepted. We look forward to seeing you there.

Veterans Sporting Clays Shoot is back ARLEN LIPPER, BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS The Sporting Clays Shoot will be on Saturday, Nov. 8, registration beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Pre-register prior to Oct. 29 and be entered into a special drawing.

The cost is $65 before Oct. 29 and $75 after Oct. 29, includes 100 sporting clays, lunch and entry for door prizes. Trophies will be presented to veterans and non-veterans. Gun rental is available at Ozark Shooters and furnish your own shells. This event is a fun time for all.

For more information, contact Arlen Lipper at 417-230-2278.

33782

35544

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 15

New events in store forVeterans Homecoming ARLEN LIPPER, DIRECTOR, BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS How time flies.

Veterans Homecoming week is almost here and we’re excited about all of our events scheduled this year.

Remember this is an election year so if you’re going to be in Branson for the Patriotic Welcome on Nov. 5, you’ll want to consider an Absentee Ballot.

Just be sure to vote.

Branson Veterans Events & Reunions have the following events set for this November: The Veterans Week Patriotic Welcome, Veterans Spouses Luncheon, Military Ball, Persian Gulf War Mini Reunion, Veterans Sporting Clays Shoot at Ozark Shooters Sports Complex, Women Veterans Mini Reunion at Ramada Branson Hotel, Korean War Veterans Mini Reunion at Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center, Wal-Mart

Tribute to Veterans, and War Documentary Film Festival at the IMAX. For those who wish to participate in the Sporting Clays Shoot, you can go to our website and download the registration form and mail it to Ozark Shooters.

Arlen This year, we’re having a registration at the Lipper Branson Mall at 2206 W. Hwy. 76, where you can purchase your Commemorative Collectors Button at our office in the Mall. Part of the proceeds will go to benefit a nonprofit organization that assists our veterans or their families. Don’t forget to get yours and help our veterans. There is a limited supply. Watch our website for updates.

We had a successful Vietnam Veterans event in March and are looking forward to our fifth event March 25-29, 2015.

As we honor our Veterans here at home, we want to remember those still serving here and around the world. We also want to remember the families of those serving as they are making the sacrifice of taking care of the home front. It’s not easy on the family not knowing where their loved one is serving. Let’s take some time each day to remember our fallen heroes and those serving in harm’s way with our prayers.

We hope to see you in Branson for Veterans Homecoming week whether you’re coming from afar or locally, drive safe.

Be sure to check out the schedule for all of our events and watch our website

bransonveteransevents.com for updates.

Thank you for your service and Welcome Home.

Rose petal ceremony returns for 11th year BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE The Branson Veterans Task Force Women Veterans Committee will host the 11th Annual Rose Petal Ceremony and Tribute to Women Veterans November 9 from noon to 2 p.m. at the Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center (formerly Settle Inn), 3050 Green Mountain Drive.

The event honors women’s contributions in the U.S. Armed Forces. This year’s theme, “Remembering Vietnam,” coincides with the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the Vietnam War. During the ceremony, guests drop rose petals into a pool of water in memory of women veterans they have known or respected.

Col. Patricia (Pat) Blassie is the featured speaker. She has served in the U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserves for more

than 34 years.

Brenda Meadows, Branson Veterans Task Force chairperson, is scheduled to entertain.

She toured Vietnam with the USO for six months before enlisting in the U.S. Army. The Branson High School JROTC all-girl Color Guard will present Colors at the Rose Petal Ceremony.

The tribute includes a luncheon, free for women veterans.

For all others the * more about donation is Col. Patricia (Pat) $10. The public is Blassie, pages 4 & 8 welcome to attend the event, but reservations are required for the lunch.

For more information, call Barb Riggle, BVTF Women Veterans Committee chairman at 417-339-6823.

Page 16 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

file photo | Branson Tri-Lakes News

The Rose Petal Ceremony will be held Nov. 9 this year. During the ceremony, guests are invited to drop rose petals into a pool of water in memory of women veterans.

The Branson Bugle

35454-33793

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 17

Vietnam Veterans welcomed home with parade at Branson Landing LYNDEE LIPPER, BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day for a parade. Branson Landing was packed full of people and we didn’t disappoint. The parade appealed to the very young and to the young at heart. Veterans from all over came to be a part of our parade.

We were honored to have Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter 269 from Clinton County, Illinois, and VVA Chapter 731 from Manitowoc County, Wisconsin, come and be a part of our parade. Of course, Branson’s own VVA Chapter 913 participated as well.

Disabled Veterans of America and Soldier’s Wish drove their vehicles, while antique fire trucks and sporty cars from SIX grabbed the attention of every child in the crowd.

However, the stars of the show proved to be the exceptional talent of Central High School’s Kiltie Drum and Bugle Corps. Those girls did an amazing job from the beginning of the parade all the way through to the end.

Veterans young and old enjoyed the talent of these young ladies. We hope to make them a permanent addition to our parade per the request of many of you.

We hope to see you all next year during Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Celebration, March 25-29.

For more information regarding any of our events during this week please call us at 417-230-2278, email us at bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com.

As always you can check our website bransonveteransevents.com for continuous updates.

file photo | Branson Tri-Lakes News

POW/MIA Awareness Ride and Ceremony held LYNDEE LIPPER, BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS March 29, 2014, started off with what could only be described as frigid temperatures, but that didn’t stop a group of dedicated bikers from gathering at the Branson Mill Craft Mall for the POW/MIA Awareness Ride. Road Riders for Jesus, the Patriot Guard, as well as other riders took off through Branson displaying their American Flags as well as their POW flags.

The purpose of the ride is to remind each of us we still have brothers and sisters whose fate is unknown. We still have families who have no answers and, thus, have no closure.

Patriotic Welcome moved to Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater

The ride ended at Shrine of the Holy Spirit where the riders gathered with other patrons in a moment of silence followed by the POW ceremony. We will continue to recognize and honor those men and women who are POWs and MIA. Please plan to join us next year March 25-29, 2015, for Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Celebration.

For more information on the motorcycle ride and other events, please contact us at bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com, or you may check out our website bransonveteransevents.com, or call us at 417-230-2278.

Branson Veterans Homecoming Souvenir Collectors Button available

BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS Branson Veterans Events and Reunions announces, due to circumstances beyond our control, the Patriotic Welcome is moved to Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater, home of “Legends in Concert” and not at the Clay Cooper

Theatre this year. You can expect the same fabulous show as in the past with local entertainers to perform for you. The ceremony will be November 5th, 2 p.m. with doors opening at 1 p.m., on a first-come firstserved basis.

Page 18 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS The fourth editions of the Branson Veterans Homecoming Souvenir Collectors Button will be available at the Branson Veterans Events & Reunions during registration at the Branson Mall, 2206 W. Hwy. 76.

They will also be available at our events throughout Branson.

There is a limited supply so you will want to

get yours early.

Remember a portion of the proceeds from each button will benefit a nonprofit veterans organization that helps veterans and their families.

We still have some of the 2011, 2012 and 2013 buttons available.

For more information, call 417-230-2278 or email bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com.

The Branson Bugle

33783

Military Discounts

For Reservations Call Cindy Gibbons Ext. 104

29540

35437

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 19

VETERANS HOMECOMING 2014 NOVEMBER 5 VIETNAM MEMORIAL WALL The Opening Ceremony for the Vietnam Memorial Wall is Nov. 5, 10 a.m. at the Welk Resort. VVA 913 Post President Bob Sarver will speak. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Nov. 5-11.

PATRIOTIC WELCOME Patriotic Welcome opening ceremony, Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Theater from 24:30 p.m. No reservations are required and there is open seating. For more information, email bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com or call 417-230-2278.

“VETS FOR VETS” On Nov.5 at 2 p.m.,the opening celebration show, “Vets for Vets” will be at the Baldknobbers Theatre.This is a free USO style event, and donations to the Branson Veterans Task Force are encouraged. Doors open at 1 p.m. and seating is first-come, first-seated basis.

Call 417-337-8387.

NOVEMBER 6 POW/MIA SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE On Nov. 6, there will be a POW/MIA Service of Remembrance at the Welk Resort.

This free event will be at 8 a.m. For more information, call 417-336-4232.

“GHOST WAR” DOCUMENTARY FILM SCREENING

The Branson Imax Entertainment Complex will screen “Ghost War” at 8:30 a.m. For more information, bransonveteransevents.com or 417-230-2278.

VETERANS SPOUSES LUNCHEON Veterans and their spouses are invited to attend the Veterans Spouses Luncheon at the Radisson Hotel Nov. 6. From noon-2 p.m.This free event will honor spouses of veterans.

RSVP by Nov. 1 by emailing bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com or by calling 417-2302278.

MILITARY BALL Radisson Hotel will host with social hour beginning at 6 p.m.followed by dinner at 7 p.m.

The event is semi-formal or black tie optional. $50. RSVP 417-230-2278 or bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com.

NOVEMBER 7 PERSIAN GULF WAR VETERANS REUNION The Persian Gulf War Veterans Reunion, 8:30-11:30 a.m. at Golden Corral.The reunion is free to veterans and their families, and

includes breakfast, entertainment and door prizes.

Email bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com or call 417-230-2278.

Clark’s American Bandstand Theater. For more information, call 417-230-2278 or email bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com.

NOVEMBER 9

TREE DEDICATION College of the Ozarks will host a tree dedication ceremony at 11 a.m. at Veterans Grove. Call 417-690-3000.

VIETNAM VETERANS MINI-REUNION The Vietnam reunion will take place from noon to 5 p.m. at Camden Hotel & Conference Center. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. with lunch by Golden Corral and an afternoon of entertainment, prizes,reminiscing and fun.The event is free of charge. pamb@gatheringsplus.com, 417-338-4048.

WORLD WAR II MINI-REUNION The World War II reunion will take place free of charge from 2-4 p.m. in the Royal Oak Forum at the Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks. 417-690-3000.

‘ALL HANDS ON DECK’ Free show, open to the public, 4:00 pm, Fri., Nov. 7 at the Branson Star Theatre, 3750 W. Hwy. 76.A free-will donation will be accepted for the Branson DAV #68 transport of patients.AllHandsOnDeckTheMusical.com.

NOVEMBER 8 NAVY MEMORIAL SERVICE The annual Navy Memorial Service will be held at a time and location to be announced.

Contact Carl Dietrich at carldietrich@att.net or 417-343-5079.

SPORTING CLAYS SHOOT 8:30 a.m. at Ozark Shooter Sports Complex, 759 U.S. 65, north of Branson. Preregister by Oct. 29 and be entered into a special drawing. Fees include 100 targets, lunch, drawing for door prizes.The cost is $65 if registered and paid by Oct. 29, $75 after Oct. 29.

Registration forms are available at Ozark Shooters or bransonveteransevents.com or call 417-230-2278, or email bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com.

18TH ANNUAL MILITARY GALA The 18th Annual Military Gala & Banquet is at Chateau on the Lake. Hosted by the POW Network.All branches, all wars welcome and the public is welcome. Branson's longest running military tribute ball includes a USMC birthday cake. 2014 Honors Vietnam Veterans.

5-11 p.m. Tickets $55 each. Reservations required. Call 417-336-4232.

WOMEN VETERANS MINI-REUNION A mini reunion for women veterans will be hosted at 5:30 p.m. at Club 57 inside Dick

Page 20 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

TRIBUTE TO VETERANS SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICE WITH BARBARA FAIRCHILD Barbara Fairchild will host a Tribute to Veterans Sunday Worship Service at 10 a.m. at the Doug Gabriel Theatre at 3750 W. 76 Country Boulevard. Admission is free. Call 417-334-6400 or BarbaraFairchild.com.

ROSE PETAL CEREMONy The Rose Petal Ceremony will be from noon to 2 p.m. at Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center. This is the 11th annual tribute, which includes a rose ceremony to honor women veterans. Open to women veterans, those who wish to honor women veterans or current service members. Contact Barb Riggle at 417-339-6823 or the Branson Veterans Task Force at 417-387-8387.

BLUE STAR MOTHERS DESSERT The Ozark Mountain Blue Star Mothers are hosting an afternoon dessert from 2-4 p.m. at the Branson Imax Entertainment Complex. Speaker, entertainment and door prizes. Pie and coffee will be served. Gold Star Mothers (mothers who have lost their child during time of conflict) Silver Star Mothers (mothers whose child has been badly injured during time of conflict) and Blue Star Mothers (mothers of our current military and living veterans) are invited. Seating is limited, contact Fran at bsmmo2@aol.com or call 417272-0630.

THE 4TH INFANTRY DIVISION HOSPITALITY ROOM The 4th Infantry Division Hospitality Room will be open from 2-7 p.m. at the Savannah House Hotel. Call 920-684-0147 or rrdufek2240@comcast.net.

KOREAN WAR VETERANS MINI-REUNION The Korean War veterans will have a mini reunion at the Stone Castle Inn from 2-5 p.m.

Refreshments,entertainment and door prizes.

Email bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com or call 417-230-2278.

NOVEMBER 10 A TRIBUTE TO VETERANS A Tribute to Veterans will be hosted by WalMart Supercenter on Branson Hills Parkway at 9 a.m. No RSVP is required for this free event, which includes lunch and entertainment. For more information, email bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com or call 417-2302278.

NOVEMBER 11 FLAG RAISING/WREATH LAYING CEREMONY To commemorate the last day of Veterans Homecoming week on Nov. 11, College of the Ozarks will host a morning flag raising/wreath laying ceremony at 7 a.m. on the Chapel Lawn.

417-690-3000.

VETERANS DAY PARADE The 82nd Annual Veterans Day Parade will begin at 11 a.m. in historic downtown Branson.This is the first year that the parade is under the direction of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913. Lineup is at 9:30 a.m. on Sycamore Street adjacent to the Convention Center. Contact the VVA Chapter 913 by calling Mike Boswell at 641-799-2013, or visit bransonvva913.com.

VETERANS DAY OBSERVANCE Ozarks Technical Community College will host a Veterans Day Observance at 4 p.m., at the Table Rock Campus, 10698 Historic Hwy. 165, Hollister. Public is invited. Call Dennis Peters at 417-447-6968.

THROUGHOUT THE WEEK • For the Branson Veterans Task Force Veteran Registry,Tactical Operations,Walls of Heroes and Vendor Village, visit the Factory Merchants Branson, known as the Red Roof Mall, between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 5-10. Call 417-337-8387.

• Throughout Veterans Homecoming, Nov. 510, Branson Veterans Events & Reunions will host a registration and souvenir commemorative collectors button sales at the Branson Mall office from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Bransonveteransevents.com.

• Reveille and Retreat will take place at 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Nov. 5-10 at Factory Merchants Branson, known as the Red Roof Mall.

• Mess Hall Lunch will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. from Nov. 5-10 at the Red Roof Mall.

• The Day Room at Red Roof Mall is free and will be open throughout Veterans Homecoming week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 5-10.

• Ozarks Technical Community College’s The Flag of the Fallen memorial will be at Vendor Village (Red Roof Mall) Nov 5-10,and then will be moved to the OTC Table Rock Campus for Veterans Day ceremonies. Call Dennis Peters at 417-447-6968.

• The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 5-11.The wall will be at Welk Resort.

• Veterans’ stories are needed for the Library of Congress. Throughout Veterans Homecoming week, help the Veterans History Project by sharing the stories of those who served. Dick Erickson, 417-231-3866.

The Branson Bugle

Solorider golf cart donated to golf course BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS

B

courtesy of Branson Veterans Events & Reunions

ranson Veterans Events & Reunions donated the first Solorider golf cart, known as Patriot I, to Thousand Hills golf course.

This golf cart is a special cart that allows anyone who is disabled from the waist down to continue to play golf.

Many of our veterans return home with injuries and many of them have trouble coping with those injuries, both physically and mentally.

Golf can be therapeutic and this cart can help them get out and play on the course. We want to thank the following businesses and organizations for helping us raise the funds for the first Solorider golf cart in the Branson area; Country Coach Texans, Country Coach International, Kohl-Jeck VFW Post 2866 (St. Louis), Classic Creations

by Nan, Ozark Mountain Blue Star Mothers, Ozark Mountain Bank, Stone Castle

Hotel & Conference Center, CenturyLink, SIX, Majestic Gems, and Tuning Element.

As we raised more than enough money to purchase the first cart, we are now working toward the purchase of a second one.

If you would like to learn more on how to donate or become a sponsor for these wonderful golf carts, you can contact us at 417-230-2278 or email bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com.

35543

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 21

VETERAN MILITARY REUNIONS 5th Regimental Combat Sept. 18-25 John Crail 859-635-9127 Mark Bryson Mark@letsgotobranson.com 417-336-4500 Branson Towers Hotel 5th Regimental Combat Sept. 22-27 John Crail 859-635-9127 Mark Bryson Mark@letsgotobranson.com 417-336-4500 Branson Towers Hotel 11th and 101st Airborne Sept. 15-19 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com 24th Evacuation Hospital Vietnam Sept. 11-14 Radisson Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com 29th Fighter Interceptor Squadron Oct. 8-11 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com 81st Artillery Battalion Sept. 16-19 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com 96th Field Artillery Sept. 18-21 Charles Bryan 515-277-7357 chucked1626@aol.com Mark Bryson Mark@letsgotobranson.com 417-336-4500 Branson Towers Hotel 304th Signal Sept. 16-19 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com

A Company 1st Cavalry Division Oct. 24-26 Bill Godbout 828-478-2742 Mark Bryson Mark@letsgotobranson.com 417-336-4500 Branson Towers Hotel Bravo Battery 6th Bn. 29th Artillery Nov. 8-12 Lodge of the Ozarks pamb@gatheringsplus.com Company B 43rd AIB Sept. 19-21 Wayne Heck 660-442-3395 Mark Bryson Mark@letsgotobranson.com 417-336-5151 Hotel Branson Fort Sill Korean Vets Sept. 18-21 Chuck Tanck 605-336-3363 Mark Bryson Mark@letsgotobranson.com 417-336-4500 Branson Towers Hotel

USS Benner Sept. 28-Oct. 2 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com USS Boxer Sept. 24-28 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com USS Constellation Sept. 21-16 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com USS John A. Bole Nov. 9-13 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com USAFSS Korlings Sept. 30-Oct. 2 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com USS Leahy DLG-16 Sept. 15-17 Bob Jefferies 574-268-7678 bljefferies@embarqmail.com

Marine Barracks Bermuda Oct. 19-23 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com

USS Nantahala Sept. 7-14 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com

Peden Barracks Wertheim Germany Nov. 5-11 James Wiebe 417-886-1101 jamesjuliawiebe@mchsi.com Westgate Branson Woods

USS Spiegel Grove Oct. 15-19 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com

Point Mugu Association Sept. 5-9 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com Sea Poacher & Friends Nov. 7-12 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com

509th Bomb Wing Association Nov. 8-11 Jim Baylor and Fred Smith natashahiex@hotmail.com Holiday Inn Express

USMC Platoon 3002 Sept. 18-21 Pam Brown 417-338-4048 pamb@bransonmilitaryreunions.com Mark Bryson Mark@letsgotobranson.com 417-336-4500 Branson Towers Hotel

796th Military Police Oct. 5-10 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com

USS Begor Oct. 8-12 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com

Page 22 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

USS Taussig Nov. 5-11 Gene Gummersheimer 618-281-5654 genewg@htc.net Mark Bryson Mark@letsgotobranson.com 417-336-4500 Branson Towers Hotel USS Tortuga Sept. 10-14 Barrington Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com Wolfhounds 2/27 Oct. 2-5 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com World War II Descendants Oct. 1-5 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com

2015 REUNION LISTINGS 591st Engineers July 11-15 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com 901/302 Reunion Sept. 15-19 Grand Plaza pamb@gatheringsplus.com 999th AFA – NEVERDIE – Korean War Veterans Sept. 25-28 Anne Talaska 414-421-4189 amtalaska@sbcglobal.net Residence Inn Aviano Association Sept. 28-Oct. 2 Grand Plaza pamb@gatheringsplus.com Hill 411 Recon June 11-14 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com Little Bear Association April 29-May 3 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com Moroccan Reunion Association Sept. 9-13 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com PQT Submarine Veterans May 14-18 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com USS Buck May 3-7 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com USS Hawkins May 14-18 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com USS Sea Poacher Nov. 8-12 Grand Plaza pamb@gatheringsplus.com

The Branson Bugle

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 23

PAID BLACC/CVB

33749

Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 1897 Branson, MO 65615

PRESORTEDSTANDARD STANDARD PRESORT US POSTAGE US POSTAGEPAID BLACC/CVB

Page 24 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans

The Branson Bugle