Spring 2015 - Vol. 13, No. 1
Honoring America’s heroes BY LAUREN HEALEY LHEALEY@BRANSONTRILAKESNEWS.COM
Armed Forces Remembrance Days kicks off Monday, May 11, and runs through Monday, May 18, featuring a variety of events to pay homage to those currently serving in the military. On Monday, May 11, support local Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts as they participate in a special ceremony to retire worn and tattered flags at Veterans Memorial Museum. An Armed Forces Meet and Greet is slated for Tuesday, May 12, at Veterans Memorial Museum. On Wednesday, May 13, there will be special discount admissions to the Branson Military Museum. The Showboat Branson Belle will offer a Special Armed Forces Day Salute on Thursday, May 14. The Robert “Bobby” Brazil Memorial Range will play host to the 2nd Annual Home Front Shoot Out Tournament Friday through Sunday, May 15-17. On Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 16, the 9th Annual BBQ and Casino Night will be held. A special Armed Forces weekend show with “Clay Cooper’s Country Express” is set for Sunday, May 17. Armed Forces Remembrance Days wraps up Monday, May 18 with the “12th Annual Veterans Assistance Benefit Show” at Hamners’ Variety Theater. Then in November, Veterans Homecoming week gets underway. POW Network Chairwoman Mary Schantag said Veterans Homecoming is looking better than ever, especially for the POW Network. “The week is filled with special tributes, reunions and shows,” she said. “It’s a very special brotherhood — family — that returns year after year. This will be the 19th Annual Military
file photo | Branson Tri-Lakes News
Gala & Banquet, and already we can tell interest and reservations are better than last year. It is an opportunity for veterans and civilians alike to tell our vets thank you with a fun evening, and a great Veterans Homecoming week here in Branson. Our gala will continue the tradition of saluting our veterans, and this year will focus on those that served in the ‘Sandbox.’” Schantag said Vietnam veterans have led “the way in making sure these men and women receive a remarkable and memorable Homecoming, and we intend to continue that attitude this fall.” “The Veterans Day Parade in Branson is one of the biggest and best in the country,” she said. “What better way to end the week?”
Branson Veterans Task Force Chairwoman Brenda Meadows said the Branson Veterans Task Force Veterans Village had an exceptional year. “We so enjoyed loving on our brother and sister veterans,” she said. “This year will be even better. I love Nov. 5-11 and I am eager to meet the many people that come to Branson for a little R & R (rest and relaxation). Better yet, it’s a family reunion of sorts. I just want to say, as my Arkansas roots dictate, ‘Y’all come, ya hear?’” Flip through the pages of this edition of the Branson Bugle for more information on all the 2015 Armed Forces Remembrance Days and Veterans Homecoming events.
Armed Forces Remembrance Days May 11-18 Veterans Homecoming November 5-11 ExploreBranson.com/veterans
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ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAYS MONDAY, MAY 11
THURSDAY, MAY 14
Boy Scout Flag Retirement Come show your support of local Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts as they participate in a special ceremony to retire worn and tattered flags at 7 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Museum – 1250 W 76 Country Blvd. Call 417-331-0011.
Special Armed Forces Day Salute on Showboat Branson Belle The Showboat Branson Belle will host a “Special Armed Forces Day Salute” 4 p.m. cruise, boarding at 3:15 p.m. Call 1-800-4177770 and ask for special rate.
TUESDAY, MAY 12
FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MAY 15-17
Armed Forces Meet and Greet Reunite with friends, enjoy refreshments and discount admission to the museum from noon to 3 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Museum, 1250 W 76 Country Blvd. Free to active-duty personnel in uniform. See the new exhibits and register for upcoming events. Call 417-336-2300.
2nd Annual Home Front Shoot Out Tournament The Robert “Bobby” Brazil Memorial Range will play host to the 2nd Annual Home Front Shoot Out Tournament Fri/Sat: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Try to out-shoot America’s military personnel and veterans. To enroll for guaranteed placement call 706987-4828.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 13 Special Museum Discount Admissions Armed Forces Remembrance Days special discount admissions to the National BB Gun Museum and the Branson Military Museum from noon to 3 p.m. at Branson Military Museum, 3615 W 76 Country Blvd. Both are new on the Branson Strip. Refreshments will be served. Call 417-239-0719.
SATURDAY, MAY 16 (A RMED F ORCES DAY ) 9th Annual BBQ and Casino Night Lions Club Building, 1015 East State Hwy 76, will host the 9th Annual BBQ and Casino Night with dinner from 5:30-6:30 p.m; and games
from 6:30- 8:30 p.m. $20 per person Includes $10,000 funny money silent auction to benefit Veterans Assistance. Call 417-294-0728 for more information. SUNDAY, MAY 17 Armed Forces weekend show A special Armed Forces weekend show with Clay Cooper’s Country Express will begin at 7:30 p.m. at Clay Cooper Theatre at 3216 W State Hwy 76. Call 417-337-7123 to purchase tickets. MONDAY, MAY 18 12th Annual Veterans Assistance Benefit Show Hamners’ Variety Theater, 3090 Shepherd of the Hills Parkway, will play host to the 12th Annual Veterans Assistance Benefit Show with a pre-show at 6:30 p.m. and the show at 7 p.m. Entertainment provided by great local entertainers. There will be a silent auction. $10 tickets. 80% of the proceeds will be used to assist Southwest Missouri military personnel and their families. Call 417-334-4363 to purchase tickets.
VETERANS HOMECOMING 2015 NOVEMBER 5
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Vets for Vets Celebration Homecoming opening “Vets for Vets Celebration,” FREE NO TICKETS REQUIRED. Branson Veterans Task Force hosts the show. The show begins at 2 p.m. at the Baldknobbers Theater. Donations are encouraged. Call 417-3378783 for more information.
Women Veterans Luncheon and Rose Petal Ceremony This event is at the Clarion Jungle Room, noon to 2 p.m. 417-337-8783.
Veterans Day Parade The annual Veterans Day Parade is presented by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913 in downtown Branson.
Vietnam Veterans Mini-Reunion Clay Cooper Theater, noon-5 p.m. Option to see 10 a.m. show. 417-338-4048
NOVEMBER 6 NOVEMBER 9 Wreath Laying POW/MIA service at the Welk Resort Branson outside at the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall. 8 a.m. For info, contact the P.O.W. Network. Sponsored by Welk Resort Branson. 417-336-4232
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19th Annual Military Gala & Banquet Branson’s longest running military tribute ball at Chateau on the Lake is hosted by P.O.W. Network from 5-11 p.m.Tickets $55. Call 417-336-4232.
THROUGHOUT THE WEEK VETERANS VILLAGE located at Ballparks of America (formerly Red Roof Mall) • Registration • Vendor Village • Day Room • Mess Hall Call 417-337-8783 for more information.
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Vietnam memorial dedication set for April 22 at College of the Ozarks VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA 913 The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913, Branson, in 2013 put together a plan to bring a memorial to Branson honoring the 1,410 heroes from Missouri who gave the ultimate in Vietnam. We first searched to see if the state of Missouri already had a memorial dedicated to the whole state. After finding that there was not a state-sanctioned memorial, we began having meetings with our state representatives and state senators. We met with State Representatives Jeff Justus and Don Phillips and State Senator David Sater to begin the process. They assisted in getting the bill passed through the House and Senate without objections. So with Branson being designated as the only state-sanctioned location, we began the search for a location. We went to the College of the Ozarks and spoke to Dr. Davis, President of the College, to see if they had a parcel of land that could be donated for this project. A major fundraiser would have to be done to accomplish this task, with no guarantee that we would be successful. When the College of the Ozarks was named the beneficiary of the Legends of Golf tournament, Dr. Davis informed us that the college would not only supply the land, but would also pay for the construction of the memorial. Dedication of this great tribute is scheduled for April 22, 2015 at 2:30 p.m. Thank you, College of the Ozarks, for your generosity and patriotism. Bob Sarver, Public Relations Director
courtesy of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913
An artist’s rendering of the state-sanctioned memorial for Missourians who lost their lives in the Vietnam War. The dedication for the memorial at C of O will be at 2:30 p.m. on April 22.
Vietnam Veterans ofAmerica to host many events in 2015 VIETNAM VETERANS OF AMERICA 913 The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913 offers great food, fun and entertainment for all Stone and Taney County residents to help benefit the chapter’s veteran’s assistance programs. On Saturday, May 16, 2015 at the Lions Club Building (1015 E. Hwy 76 ), we will hold our 9th annual BBQ and Casino Night & Silent Auction. Dinner begins at 5:30 p.m. and the games begin at 6:30. With the purchase of a ticket, each receives $10,000 in funny money to play your favorite casino game. There will be a silent auction for items donated by the area’s generous businesses. Tickets are $20 per
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person. Call 417-294-0728 for information and tickets. The Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 913 introduces their 11th Annual Veterans Assistance Benefit Show at the Hamners’ Variety Theater, May 18, 2015. This entertaining evening will start with a pre-show at 6:15 p.m. with the show beginning at 7 p.m. Local entertainers donate their time and talents to put on a show that will be unforgettable. There is also a silent auction in the lobby of the theater. Tickets for this great night of entertainment are only $10 per person. Call the box office at 417-334-4363 to book your reservations or go by the theater and get your tickets. The
seats are selling fast so help your local veterans by supporting these great venues. Vietnam Veterans of America is a not-for-profit organization, with a membership of 170 plus dedicated to assist veterans and their families. Also the Vietnam Veterans of America will host its second annual fishing tournament on October 24, 2015 at Scotty’s Boat Dock on Lake Taneycomo. Scotty’s will again be the sponsor of this great event. Cash prizes and drawings for donated items will also be held. Entry fee is only $25.00. Call Roger Womack at 417-231-1517 for more information.
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Showboat offering special cruises on Veterans Day SILVER DOLLAR CITY
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he Showboat Branson Belle honors veterans with special cruises at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov. 11. Each cruise will feature a special color guard presentation and a Veterans Day Salute, plus special pre-show memorial services offered in the Garden Gazebo. The 2015 show for the Showboat Branson Belle includes the biggest cast and show ever in the ship’s two-decade history of sailing Table Rock Lake. In honor of this timeline distinction, the cast and crew will feature a 20th Anniversary Limited Engagement show with new acts and returning favorites in CELEBRATE. The stage of the authentic 1880s-style paddlewheeler will come dynamically to life through live music and more than a dozen performers presenting an eclectic array of entertainment — from rhythmic dance to America’s long-time favorite vocal performances, from fresh and contemporary to musical classics. Each cruise features a three-course meal from the Showboat’s Chef Larry, including slow-simmered beef roast and honey-Dijon glazed chicken topped off with the chef’s own Golden Brittle Lemon-Berry Torte. For more information call 800-775-BOAT (2628) and ask for Veterans Cruises and special pricing, information about the Showboat is available at showboatbransonbelle.com.
courtesy of Showboat Branson Belle
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Seventh Annual ‘Branson.com Honors Purple Heart Recipients’set for April 23-25 BRANSON.COM “The Seventh Annual ‘Branson.com Honors Purple Heart Recipients,’ will be held in Branson, Missouri on April 23 through April 25,” said Annette Wood, the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Branson Tourism Center. “Branson.com is honored to host this unique event dedicated to serving, honoring and remembering those who have received the ‘Purple Heart’ for combat wounds received while serving in the Armed Forces of the United States of America and is appreciative of ‘The Military Order of the Purple Heart’ (MOPH) for their support and assistance in helping make this event the special event that it is,” she added. The plans for the 2015 event are in the final stages of being finalized and will include an inspirational opening and closing ceremony, entertainment by various Branson celebrities, a trout fishing tournament, a dinner, opportunity for private consultations with MOPH National Service Officers, a few surprises and, as in the
past, there will be no charge for Purple Heart Recipients to attend any of the event’s activities. As was the case last year, we will be offering discounted rates to Purple Heart Recipients through the host lodging Radisson Hotel, where the Hospitality Room, which will be available throughout the entire event, will be located. Attendees are not required to be staying at the Radisson to enjoy the Hospitality Room and other lodging options are available, including those that are pet friendly or offer other amenities. Please feel free to call our staff for all lodging information and availability 1-800-268-4014. “We would invite all Purple Heart Recipients, Veterans, their families and friends to reserve the dates of April 23-25, 2015 on their calendars and plan to attend the event,” said Wood. For further information or updates, call 1-800-2684014 or visit veterans.branson.com.
Branson Veterans Events & Reunions opening ceremony LYNDEE LIPPER • BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS The Branson Star Theatre hosted the opening ceremony for Veterans Homecoming week 2014. Veterans and their families filled the theater. Branson Veterans Events Board of Directors member Dee Elledge never disappoints with her all-star lineup of Branson’s favorite entertainers. Brydon Brett did a fabulous job as master of ceremonies. The crowd loved his quick wit and his jokes. Doug Gabriel, the Hughes Brothers, and The Bretts were just some of the wonderful entertainers to perform for our beloved veterans.
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We were so honored to have Connor Wiggins join us as our special guest. Connor is a teenager that lives in northern Missouri. She is no stranger to the military and has sevLEARN MORE ABOUT eral family members serving right now, including an CONNOR WIGGINS older brother. Connor goes ON PAGE 21 out of her way to honor men and women who have and are serving. She creates a pin that honors veterans, and
gives one to each veteran she meets. She made 2,000 pins for Veterans Homecoming week. David Bancroft with USA Patriotism gave Connor the Student Patriot Award for her commitment to honoring veterans. We are looking forward to another amazing Opening Ceremony November 5, 2015, 2:00PM at the Branson Star Theater. For more information on this event or any of our events, please contact (417) 230-2278, email bransonveteransevents@yahoo.com or check out our website for upto-date information bransonveteransevents.com.
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Branson Veterans Events & Reunions presents a Military Ball LYNDEE LIPPER • BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS
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courtesy of Branson Veterans Events & Reunions
adisson Hotel was the location for last year’s magnificent event. Ladies and gentlemen, if you were there, you know it was fabulous. The ballroom was spectacular with white floral decorations set against a silver and navy blue backdrop. The band looked sharp in their tuxedos and the guests looked dazzling in their evening gowns and dress blues. The evening started with cocktails while Wings of Swing Band, from Springfield, MO serenaded the guests. Colonel James Wilhite was Master of Ceremony. Guest speaker, Dr. Sue Head, of College of the Ozarks, spoke about the college’s patriotic program and all they do to honor veterans. Dr. Head shared about the trips that the C of O students and local veterans went on back to war zones of WWII, Korea and Vietnam. These experiences were life-changing for both the students and veterans. The Branson High School Air Force Junior ROTC Color Guard looked sharp with their presentation of colors. Branson Veteran Events & Reunions was very pleased to honor them with their first Junior ROTC Patriot Award. Branson Veteran Events & Reunions also had the honor of presenting the Patriot Award to David Cain of Flash Photo. David is a veteran. David continues to serve his country and fellow veterans and goes above and beyond duty donating his time and talents to our events. Flash Photo donated all pictures that were taken of our guests during the ball. If you weren’t there, you missed out. The fabulous decorations provided by Seasons Events, the amazing
417-338-4048
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Nationwide Military Reunion Planning Service
dinner, and the band, the entire evening was phenomenal. Wings of Swing, literally had couples out on the floor swinging, twirling, dipping, and genuinely having a great time. Mr. Frank Baker and his beautiful wife Lavern stole everyone’s attention with their flawless jitterbug. Couples were still shaking up the dance floor when the band played their last song. Branson Veterans Events & Reunions presented each veteran with a beautiful challenge coin as a memento. All guests received an engraved wine glass, commemorating our first military ball. Many thanks to Kilwins Chocolates for donating their very special chocolate for this event. Door Prizes were provided by Tatman’s Fine Jewelry. Two lovely ladies were the excited winners of exquisite pieces of jewelry from the Jacqueline Kennedy Collection. Thank you to Mike & Betty Nell for their support and making the evening complete with beautiful bling. Bill Jones of Branson Bank spoke about their Veteran of the Quarter program and displayed the plaque listing all the recipients of the award. Thank you to all of our sponsors: Branson Bank, Tatman’s Fine Jewelry, Flash Photo, Classic Creations by Nan, Kilwins of Branson and IMAX. Everyone had a good time and we are looking forward to the encore. Please watch our website for exciting news concerning the Second Annual Military Ball. This ball is dedicated to all branches of service and we hope to see you there. Visit bransonveteransevents.com or call 417-2302278 for details, sponsorship opportunities and tickets.
www.ReunionPro.com
1ST CLASS FLEET 1ST CLASS DRIVERS 1ST CLASS SERVICE Groups of 10 or more for Branson area transportation.
417-239-4492
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Veterans Task Force board welcomes new members BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE
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he Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF) opened its first meeting of 2015 by welcoming new board members Steve Baughan, Tammy Slentz, Amber Campbell, Rich Crowell, Sherrie Schnapp, Nick Ambegia and Kristina Gilbert to its ranks. The board also re-elected Chairperson Brenda Meadows and Mike Yates as vice chair. Meadows said 2015 is going to be a strong year for area veterans and those who visit Branson. “The task force is focusing on highlighting Branson’s heart towards honoring and welcoming veterans, active-duty personnel and all of their families,” she said. “This board has more members than we’ve had in the past few years and all of us want to work together to create an atmosphere where all veterans feel the love here and are comfortable, as well as entertained.” Yates said all of the people chosen to serve on the board have done previous work for the task force. Gilbert said she had volunteered at BVTF events throughout 2014 and sees being a board member as an opportunity to do more. “I am a very proud wife of a retired airman, daughter of an Air Force veteran, daughter-in-law of a Navy veteran, sister of a retired Navy submariner and mom to a serving Army soldier,” she said. “I love the idea that whatever time I can give is helping reach as many veterans as possible and letting them know how much I appreciate their service.” Yates said that the board has chosen some “very good people.” “I think we’re going to have more of a can-do attitude in 2015 than we’ve had in the past with management backgrounds in our board members — that in itself will accomplish a lot for the board,” he said. Crowell, who is the general manager of Golden Corral, said joining the task force board was a perfect fit for him. “Every Monday (during Veterans Homecoming) from 5-9 p.m., we offer a free meal for veterans ... so I’ve been working with veterans a long time,” said Crowell, who has been involved with the task force for several years, but just joined the board this year. “I love our veterans and the task force has been very supportive of them over the years. Branson is the greatest city in the country for our veterans and it just seemed like the perfect fit.” Crowell said the community should expect a lot of great things from the task force in the coming year. “They are amazing people that support our community and really care about our veterans,” he said. “It makes you feel good to help an amazing organization. Without our vets, we wouldn’t be here and wouldn’t have our freedom. They are the true heroes.” Along with board members Meadows and Yates, the new members join existing members Pam Brown, Ernie Bradley, Julie Peters, June Tillis and Rich Watson. Meadows said the task force board would miss treasurer Greg Schnapp who recently retired, mainly due to health problems. She said the 10 years he dedicated to the task force benefited the community as well as veterans. The board presented him a plaque and a gift certificate. For more information, call the task force at 417337-8387 or visit bransonveterans.com.
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courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force
The BVTF has new board members and plans for a great 2015. Missing from this photo are board members Julie Peters, Rich Crowell (new), Rich Watson and Ernie Bradley. From left, back row: Mike Yates (vice chair), Nick Ambegia (Home Front Shoot Out chair), Amber Campbell, Tammy Slentz, Pam Brown (sponsorships), Steve Baughan. Bottom row, from left: Sherrie Schnapp (education), Barb Riggle (former vice chair and Women veterans Committee former chair), Brenda Meadows (Chairperson), Kristina Gilbert, June Tillis (acting secretary).
The Task Force on the ‘Home’front BRENDA MEADOWS • BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE For more than a decade the Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF) has been facilitating events and helping create a homecoming atmosphere that welcomes, honors and respects all of America’s heroes — veterans and active duty military personnel. There are several veterans on our board, which gives the BVTF more insight to the experiences and situations veterans, (stateside or in foreign countries, in peace time or war) might have gone through. With this personal information available to us, we can provide the answers veterans, local or visiting, ask. One way we serve those who have served us is to provide them the resources they need. If there is a reunion that needs a bugler, a chaplain, or a list of service groups, we will provide that information. Or call us to get directions to the VA clinic, information about the area, a way to connect with
other veterans or just someone to talk with. If we don’t know the answer to a question, we will find it and call you back. We are here for you. Branson is a comfortable place where veterans feel appreciated. And that’s another thing we do — we appreciate you. As a matter of fact, Branson likes to be thought of as the place where all veterans feel right at home. And coming here is a homecoming of sorts, which is why the BVTF is very actively involved in the annual November 5-11 Veterans Week, your “Welcome Home Week.” Make sure you give us a call or look us up when you come to Branson or if you are just thinking about visiting here. Remember, we are “family” and Branson is “home.” Call 417-337-8387 (417-337-VETS)
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Vets for Vets Celebration features Barbara Fairchild BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE
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ranson’s Veterans Homecoming week will kick-off with the fourth annual Vets for Vets Celebration Show featuring Grammy Award-winning Barbara Fairchild with Roy Morris at 2 p.m. on Nov. 5 in the Baldknobbers Theater, 2835 W 76 Country Blvd in Branson, MO. The USO-style celebration, presented by the Branson Veterans Task Force, will also have performances by Dalena Ditto, Jeanna Kilbane, Rich Watson (Smoke on the Mountain), Sons of Britches from IMAX Entertainment Complex, Norvan Breek of Sonshine Dance Studios and many others. The performers in Vets for Vets are Branson area entertainers who are veterans or have participated in the Untied Service Organization (USO). Baldknobbers Theater Chief Operations Officer Brandon Mabe said he hopes to help make the 2015 celebration show even more successful than in the past. This will be the third year for the Baldknobbers to host the USO canteenstyle show at their theater.
“The Baldknobbers want to honor our veterans any way we can,” he said. “Having the veterans’show here again is one way we can say ‘thank you.”’ Branson Veterans Task Force Chairperson, US Army veteran Brenda Meadows, who toured Vietnam in 1968 as a USO entertainer, produces the Vets for Vets Celebration. “We are so glad that some of the performers are returning to the stage this year,” Meadows said. “One of the new surprises this year will be the Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute show “Bad Moon Risin’.” We know those songs will be creating an atmosphere of good memories. All of us will be here for fellow veterans.” The Vets for Vets Celebration is free to veterans and their families. NO TICKETS WILL BE ISSUED. Seating is on a firstcome, first-seated basis. Doors open at 1 p.m. There will be donation boxes for the Branson Veterans Task Force placed throughout the theater. For additional information go to: bransonveteranswebsite.com, call 417-3378387 or 417-231-7601.
photos courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force
Barbara Fairchild will be featured at the annual Vets for Vets Celebration at Baldknobbers Theater at 2 p.m. on Nov. 5. There will be no tickets issued for the show, free to veterans and their families. It is an open seating event: first-come, first-seated. Call 417-337-8387.
Ozark Mountain Blue Star Mothers get-together slated for November OZARK MOUNTAIN BLUE STAR MOTHERS
Army veteran Jon Sousan and Bucky Heard, members of the new Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute show “Bad Moon Risin’,” will perform with the group at the 2015 Vets for Vets Celebration.
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Ozark Mountain Blue Star Mothers (the mothers of current military and living veterans) are busy joining fundraisers and the vendor village at the the Veterans Homecoming. We will have our Gold Star, Silver Star and Blue Star Mothers get-together as we do each year with the time and date to be determined in November. We will be sending spring boxes to our troops and Christmas boxes. Last year we were able to send
91 Christmas boxes with the help of our sponsors and friends. If you are interested in membership information, go to bluestar mothers.org for information and a membership app. We are MO2. If you would like to help us with any of our programs: Gold, Silver and Blue Star Mothers get together, spring mailing or Christmas mailing please call Fran Davis @ 417-272-0630 for information on how to donate money or items to be sent. Fran Davis, President
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Veterans Homecoming week sporting clays shoot BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS
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eterans and civilians weathered the brisk morning air November 8 to challenge the Sporting Clays course at Ozark Shooters Sports Complex. Everyone shot the 10-station course, with a total of 100 clay birds, afterwards enjoyed a terrific lunch and received door prizes donated by Wal-Mart and Bass Pro Shops. Receiving trophies for the veterans were: A Flight; Rich Evans, 1st Place, and Bill White, 2nd Place, for B Flight: Ron Downing, 1st Place, and Lew Porter 2nd Place. Veteran Jan Schultz took home 1st Place for the women. We hope to see more women in 2015. Receiving trophies for the civilians were: A Flight: John Winters, 1st Place, and Ed Skeins, 2nd Place. For B Flight: Jim Lawson, 1st Place, and Pat Criger, 2nd Place. Civilians outshot the veterans that round; however, we’ll see what happens this year.
courtesy of Branson Veterans Events & Reunions
Veterans and civilians attended a sporting clays shoot at Ozark Shooters Complex on November 8 during Veterans Homecoming week.
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Women veterans 12th annual Rose Petal Ceremony welcomes pilot/nurse Amy Dawson BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE
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he Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF) Women Veterans 12th annual Rose Petal Ceremony and luncheon welcomes guest speaker Amy Dawson, former pilot and Warrant officer, who changed careers to become a registered nurse and works for the VA hospital in Little Rock, Ark. The 2015 gathering that honors women’s contributions in the US Armed Forces will be in the Jungle Room of the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center, 2820 Missouri 76, noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 8. The rose petal ceremony gives guests an opportunity to remember women veterans they have known or respected by dropping rose petals into a pool of water. The BVTF offers the luncheon free to women veterans and women on active duty. Reservations are required. The public is invited to attend the lunch for $10. Dawson, who has completed 24 years of service in the National Guard, intends to retire in May. She has flown more than 500 combat hours in Iraq as a pilot and was awarded the Army Air Medal for that service. She also
received the Meritorious Service Medal for service in Kosovo and earned her Senior Aviator Wings. Dawson was the first female Warrant Officer Aviator in Arkansas and the first female Army Pilot in Command in Arkansas. While in Iraq the 1-185th Air Assault Battalion, the company Dawson was with, suffered the loss of crew and aircraft to enemy fire. “I decided to go to nursing school while I was in Iraq,” she said. “After losing our crew, I decided I needed to do something to honor the brothers we lost and to continue to serve other veterans. Nursing was the obvious choice.” Branson performer, Army veteran Jeanna Kilbane, will supply special entertainment for the event. A special time of remembrance will honor WWII veteran Emma Pogge who passed away in January. Pogge had attended the annual women veterans’ Rose Petal Ceremony for the past 11 years. For more information, call the Task Force Women Veterans Committee at 417-337-8387 (417-337 VETS).
Amy Dawson stands by Catfish Air on Camp Anaconda.
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photos courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force
WWII Army veteran Emma Pogge, 102, places red rose petals in water at the annual Branson Veterans Task Force Women Veterans Rose Petal Ceremony and Luncheon. The 2014 annual event marked Pogge’s 11th year in attendance, but it would be her last. She died on January 2, 2015.
Amy Dawson in flight.
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Women veterans honored at mini-reunion BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS On November 8, 2014 Branson Veterans Events & Reunions honored our women veterans and their guest with a reception at the Ramada Inn, Branson.
Among those in attendance was Emma Pogge, 102 years young, a WW II veteran from Lawrence, KS. Emma has been an honored attendee to Branson accompanied by her devoted family during Veterans Homecoming Week for the past eleven years. Emma enlisted in Army Air Corp in 1943. Emma passed away on January 2, 2015. She will be missed. Women veterans have played a roll in many of our wars by providing care for our wounded, maintenance of vehicles, flying planes, packing parachutes and many other duties as assigned. It is only fitting that we take time to honor these veterans for their service. They enjoyed a fan-
courtesy of Branson Veterans Events & Reunions
tastic buffet prepared by Dick Clark’s American Bandstand Grill. The ladies received door prizes provided by Stone Hill Winery, Mount Pleasant Winery, Lindwedel Winery, Classic Creations by Nan, Branson Mill Craft Village,
Harry & David, IMAX and the Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks to name a few. Afterward, many of the women veterans and their guests enjoyed a Legends in Concert show. This event was coordinated
and hosted by Branson Veterans Events & Reunions. For more information about this event, please visit bransonveteransevents.com or call 417-230-2278. We look forward to seeing you in November 2015.
Ask For Discount Prior To Purchase. Not Good With Other Offers. Non-Transferable For Cash. Expires 12/1/2015.
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Veterans & Active Military Receive Special Discount
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Branson’s DAV chapter and auxiliary are the fastest growing in Missouri DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS CHAPTER 68 Disabled American Veterans Chapter 68 and Auxiliary Unit 68 have both grown in membership by over 60% this past year and received commendation from the Missouri DAV State Department for our record setting growth. When Auxiliary Commander Mary Cummings was asked about why so much growth, she stated, “the persistent hard work of our member volunteers helping local veterans is a great cause and the word gets around. Many local veterans and their families have jumped on board
to help their comrades in need.” In the past year our DAV vans have driven over 40,000 miles and transported over 400 veterans to their VA Hospital appointments in Missouri and Arkansas at no cost to themselves. This past year our DAV Service Officers at no charge have given guidance and/or submitted claims to the Department of Veteran Affairs for disability compensation for over 900 veterans who were injured or suffer an illness acquired while serving in the US Military during a time of conflict or war. Our DAV Chapter also gave over
$2,000 directly to veterans in emergency funds. Our Auxiliary also supports the Mt. Vernon Missouri Veterans Home with numerous visits, organized bingo, books for their library, lap blankets, donated wheelchairs and Christmas presents for all. How can you help our disabled and/or needy veterans? You can make a tax deductible donation to our chapter. 100% goes to local veterans and their families. Anyone in good health (need not be a veteran) can be a volunteer driver or help clerically in our office. You can join the DAV if you’ve ever submitted a VA claim for injury or illness; received a purple heart or been a
POW. Join the DAV Auxiliary if you have a veteran in your family tree. You should “transfer in” to Branson’s Veteran City Chapter 68 or Auxiliary Unit 68 if it’s closer to your home than your present chapter. We are located on the backside of the Branson VA Clinic at 5771 N. Gretna, P.O. Box 25, Branson, MO. 65615 or call us at (417) 243-2326. Our monthly meeting is on the 1st Monday every month (2nd Monday if the 1st Monday falls on a federal holiday) at the Golden Corral in Branson. Meetings start at 7 PM. Come at 6 PM if you want to eat and please pay in the stage room. Cost is $12.00 for supper, drink and tip total.
Branson Veterans Task Force seeks sponsors BRENDA MEADOWS • BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE The success of the Branson Veterans Task Force’s Veterans Village, shootout, resource center and referrals to visiting veterans and their families is not because of the devoted board members. Although we do work together to plan events that welcome veterans to Branson to make them feel honored and at home, the real heartbeat of this city comes by doing and giving. The real success in saying ‘Welcome Home’ comes through volunteers and sponsors that make it all happen. These are the ones that put their hearts and dollars to work for Branson, a real welcoming committee. Their actions are proof that success in laying out the welcome mat takes more than words. Call 417-337-8387.
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Korean War mini-reunion stirs emotions LYNDEE LIPPER • BRANSON VETERANS EVENTS & REUNIONS Once in a while, we are blessed to witness a moment so priceless, it becomes etched in our memory forever. I was blessed enough to witness just such a moment. It wasn’t planned, and no one could have anticipated the impact it would have on all of us. Every year, Branson Veterans Events & Reunions hosts a minireunion for the men and women who served in the Korean War. This year we gathered at the Stone Castle Inn and Conference Center, but so did a foreigner and his family. He was Korean, born and raised. He had come to the United States with his family to study journalism, and he had come to Branson to meet up with a veteran he had met not long before the event. However, he soon discovered that while his veteran friend was not there, there was an entire room of veterans who had fought in Korea so many years ago. His joy and enthusiasm led him to address the entire room. He stood there, bowed to them, and went on to thank them for fight-
ing for him, for his family. He said that America may call Korea “the forgotten war,” but Korea remembers. Korea remembers the brave men and women of the United States fighting for them, and for saving them. His humble and sincere gratitude spoke volumes. He walked around the room shaking their hands, and taking pictures, because to him and his family these veterans are heroes in every sense of the word. In his eyes these men left the comforts of their homes, went to a foreign land, and fought a war that was not their own. They had defended the weak, oppressed, and at the end of the day, some of them gave their lives so that this young man could grow up to appreciate what these American G.I.’s had given for him and his country. The pride I feel for these veterans made my heart swell to the point my eyes leaked. I am honored to call these women and men, brothers and sisters. I am honored to call them my fellow countrymen. I am honored to call them American soldiers.
courtesy of Branson Veterans Events & Reunions
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ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 15
New venue for Vietnam Era Reunion GATHERINGS PLUS Pam Brown of Gatherings Plus has announced that the 7th annual Vietnam Era Reunion will be held on November 8, 2015 at the Clay Cooper Theatre. Something new and different this year is that attendees can reserve tickets at
the theater to see the “Red, Hot... and Blue” show at 10 a.m. for a ticket price of $10.00 per person and keep that seat for the Vietnam Reunion activities. At noon box lunches will be provided by Golden Corral and the afternoon fes-
tivities will include entertainment and door prizes as in past years. No more waiting in line to get a good seat if you purchase a ticket to the morning show. And, for those who don’t want to purchase a ticket to the
morning show you will be admitted to the theater at noon for the free lunch and afternoon festivities. Reservations can be made by calling 417-335-2529. We’re anxious to see you November 8 at Clay Cooper Theatre.
file photos | Branson Tri-Lakes News
Vietnam veterans and their families come from all over the United States for this reunion.
Shuttle company under new ownership GATHERINGS PLUS John and Pam Brown, owners of Gatherings Plus, recently purchased five shuttles from Terry and Vienna Bowling, dba Terry’s Transport. They will continue to offer the same great service the Bowlings provided the past eight years. The new name is 1st Class Shuttle Service, www.1stclassshuttleservice.com. Joann Chamberlain, longtime Branson resident is the new general manager and would be happy to give pricing and reservation information by calling her at 417239-4492. courtesy of Gatherings Plus
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Nineteen Galas and counting POW NETWORK
T
he POW Network returns to Chateau on the Lake, 415 North State Highway 265, Branson, November 9, 2015 to host its 19th Annual Military Banquet & Gala. The Gala is the longest running military salute in Branson. This year’s military tribute starts at 5 p.m. and will salute those that served in “The Sandbox,” Iraq, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, and elsewhere in the Middle East nations. The evening will include participation by the Hughes Brothers,
the LeCroy Sisters, and dancing with the Moonlighters. Fireworks and the annual candlelight POW/MIA service will be showcased as veterans, family and friends enjoy dinner at the event filled with memorable moments. Reservations are required, and ticket prices remain at $55 a person. Formal wear, uniforms, mess dress or business attire are the preferred dress for the evening. For further information, call the POW Network at 417-336-4232 or email info@pownetwork.org.
POW Network Chairman Mary Schantag and Chaplain Mike Jones, 2014 John Koutrakos Patriotism Award recipient, check last-minute details. photos courtesy of POW Network
The Marine Corps birthday was celebrated with the traditional cake cutting.
Lest we forget POW NETWORK
courtesy of POW Network
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The annual POW/MIA Service of Remembrance is scheduled for Friday, November 6, 2015 at the Welk Resort Branson, 1984 Missouri 165, Branson, MO The 8 a.m. outdoor service overlooks the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall replica, adding to the solemn event that includes a guest speaker, wreath laying, and musical tribute. This year’s guest speaker has not yet been finalized. Prior speakers have included former Prisoners of War, family members of those still missing or whose remains have been returned, and veteran organization officers.
Thousands remain unaccounted for since WWI, with time running out as soil and environmental conditions destroy evidence. The agency responsible for recovery efforts is in the midst of reorganization, with family members and veterans alike hoping it leads to swifter, more accurate identifications when remains are recovered. Bowe Bergdahl was the last living POW to return home. His release was negotiated with his return based on an exchange for Gitmo detainees. The outdoor event is open to the public at no cost. For further information, call the P.O.W. NETWORK at 417336-4232 or email info@pownetwork.org.
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Still time to register for Home Front Shoot Out BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE
Second Annual Home Front Shoot-Out Registration MAY 15 -17, 2015
DEADLINE: MAY 1, 2015
Name: ___________________________________________DOB: _____________________ Address: ___________________________________________________________________
City/State: _______________________________
Zip Code: ______________________
Phone: _______________________ Email: _______________________________________ CALL TO RESERVE PLACEMENT IF PAYING THE DAY OF THE TOURNAMENT
Entry Fees: Civilian: $ 25 for first category
To arms, to arms. The Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF) is calling all veterans and civilians to test their firearm ability at its second annual Home Front Shootout, May 15-17 at the Robert “Bobby” Brazil Memorial Range, 2217 Bear Creek Road, Walnut Shade. “The shooting competition is taking place to bring old and new vets together as well as area vets closer to the community,” said Army veteran Nick Ambegia. “This event is kind of my own way of dealing with my own PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). This gives me a way to express myself and talk to others besides my doctors.” The competition, which consists of three events, will be scored then added together to determine the top four shooters. Prizes and trophies will be awarded on May 17, the last day with first, second and third places in each category. Categories include rifles: without scope, with scope and bolt actions; shotguns: unplugged only; pistols: semi-automatics and revolvers. Contestants must bring personal weapons with ammunition. Entry fees for active duty or veterans is free for the first category, $25 for civilians in the initial category and $15 in the initial category for a friend of a military member. Military competitors must have proof of service in order to compete. Ambegia became interested in shootouts when he participated in the German Schutzenschnul competition and other onrange contests during his time in service. He realizes some people may not be marksmen, but want to support the event and help others participate, so he has created a way for them to do that. SHOOT OUT — cont. on page 19
Friend of military member: $15 for first category Active Duty/Vet shoot first category free. Package deals are available upon requests. Payments will be accepted at registration tables. Prizes will be awarded on May 17, 2015. Time slots will be assigned for range placement. Competitors’ placements may be viewed at any time. Contact tournament staff to change a time slot or to cancel an entry. There will only be four contestants per hour due to limited spacing. Refreshments will be available for sale during the event. No coolers please. Lauren Healey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
View our page to stay updated on event dates and times, time slots and other news. https://www.facebook.com/groups/homefrontshootout/
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Nick Ambegia aims at a target during the Home Front Shoot Out while Dustin Steiro watches. The fundraiser was held to bridge the gap between different generations of veterans.
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SHOOT OUT cont. from page 18 “We are also implementing an Adopt-A-Soldier/Vet outreach program where companies and individuals can donate funds for soldiers to be able to participate (in the shootout),” he said. “This gives them the opportunity to be
able to help vets or service members without having an obligation to compete in the Home Front Shoot Out.” Vendor spaces, not including food, with goods relating to the theme of the event are available. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Call Nick Ambegia at 817-600-9383, or his wife, Nichole, at 706-987-4828 or BVTF 417-337-8387 for regulations and time slots or email nambegia@gmail.com.
courtesy of Brenda Meadows Lauren Healey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
Branson Veterans Task Force Office Manager 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.
Branson Veterans Task Force Home Front Shoot Out organizers and Army veterans Nick and Nichole Ambegia, above, go over sponsorship information with the hosting Robert Brazil Memorial Rifle Range owners Army veterans Michael Shields, back left, and Clinton Caperton.
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ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 19
Avenue of Freedom veteran volunteer retires BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE
E
ach of the nearly 100 American flags displayed along Gretna Road rests a placard bearing the name of a veteran, first responder or present day warrior. Army veteran Tom Goldsworthy, representing the Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF), has dedicated the past 13 years to placing the flags on the poles along what is known as “The Avenue of Freedom.” He has fervently watched the 1.5 miles of personalized memorials, making sure they fly without incident and all placards remain in place, as well as two weatherresistant flags flying from each light pole in the center of Gretna Road. Branson’s Board of Aldermen sanctioned the Avenue of Freedom on Nov. 14, 2001. It was designated to honor United States veterans who gave their lives for freedom and for those who died from terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 (9/11). It is supported by donations. When Goldsworthy receives donations from individuals, organizations and businesses, he orchestrates the placement of each flag, which is flown for 90 days, from the week before Memorial Day until the week after Veterans Day. When each flag is “retired” it is shipped to a designated recipient complete with a personalized certificate. “People that make a donation to have the flags flown actually come (to Branson) and look for those flags,” Goldsworthy said. “The person who orders the flag is not always the person that gets the flag. Some buy them for relatives that served and some buy them in honor of friends that served.” Goldsworthy recalled one gentleman who bought flags for the school he had attended. “He bought a flag for each branch of military service that students have served in,” he said. “Then he took the flags to the school, where they are on display in memory of all the kids that were in the military. There were students that served in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, etc.” Recently Goldsworthy told the BVTF that his health requires that he give up maintaining the Avenue of Freedom. Goldsworthy quickly reminds those who would applaud him for his dedication to the Avenue, that he has had help. Among those committed to the cause is Randy Brott from Sudden Link who supplies the lift truck needed to place the flags on the poles that are the property of Empire Electric. “It takes four people to put them up and over time there have been numerous volunteers,” Goldsworthy said. “They are both veterans and non-veterans.” Vietnam veteran Mike Yates, a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913 and vice-chair of the BVTF, said Goldsworthy has dedicated much of his life to the Avenue of Freedom. “The Avenue of Freedom has become a city landmark that is talked about by visitors and locals,” he said. “Tom has negotiated five-year contracts with the city of Branson for that space along Gretna Road. In all kinds of weather he put flags up and took them down, spent countless hours folding them, placed certificates with them and mailed them to the people who have sponsored them.” Goldsworthy is passing the “Avenue of Freedom torch” to dedicated area veterans and volunteers. He will be a consultant to Yates, who will oversee maintenance of the Avenue of Freedom.
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“We, the citizens of Branson, owe Tom a debt of gratitude,” Yates said. Flags along the Avenue, and their maintenance, can be sponsored for a donation of $50 each or any amount
above $50 to the Branson Veterans Task Force. Call 417-337-8387 or visit www.BransonVeterans.com to sponsor a flag or volunteer to help maintain the Avenue of Freedom.
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Student Patriot Hall of Honor BY DAVID BANCROFT Conner Wiggins (13) of Memphis, Missouri, was inducted into Student Patriots Hall of Honor during the Branson Veterans Events & Reunions Opening Ceremonies at the Branson Star Theatre. She has been sending personally signed “homemade” cards and letters to troops since she could walk ... doing so to honor these men and women who have given so much in service to our beloved America. Her message of appreciation contains a personal note of interesting things in her life and how the recipient might relate. Then Conner decided to do the same for veterans when she learned about the importance of “Veterans Day.” So, now her cards go out on Veteran’s Day, Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter. What originally started as a 4-H project continues to grow every year with over 800 personal greetings in cards sent just to veterans in 2013. She also visits veterans at the Veterans’ Homes for the Aged, a homeless shelter ... bringing them cards and small gifts including gently used clothing for those in need. Moreover, Conner Wiggins decided about two years ago to do more for veter-
ans ... designing “patriotic badges” (with the help of her mother) to pass out to veterans. These badges are all handmade with bottle caps. Inside the cap is a printed message thanking the veteran for their service. They also use colored card stock that has been punched out into various designs and attached to the cap. It doesn’t have to be a special day — they readily have them
in their pockets and give them out — even in supermarkets. Through this effort, she was encouraged to make her statement national. Conner is now registered at Fort Riley in Kansas with her own brand ... “Conner’s Cause”... which has become known nationally. She made 2,000 Conner’s Cause badges to proudly present to each veteran that she met during her visit to Veterans Week 2014 in Branson ... starting with the opening ceremony honoring veterans on November 5, 2014, at the Branson Star Theatre. It is also where she was surprised on November 5, 2014, with the presentation of her very deserving induction into the Student Patriots Hall of Honor and receiving her certificate from David Bancroft, USA Patriotism Founder. Her proud reason for doing so... “Our nation is free because of their bravery.” 35060
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ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 21
VETERAN MILITARY REUNIONS 2015 REUNION LISTINGS 246th Field Artillery Sept. 13-17 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com 4th Missile 28th Artillery Oct. 6-10 Radisson Hotel Branson pamb@gatheringsplus.com 591st Engineer Company July 11-15 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com 64-C Pilot Training Class Oct. 14-18 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
Bien Hoa AB Vietnam Reunion June 11-13 tap6869nam@gmail.com 864-653-7510 bienhoaabreunions.com Cha-Rang Gang Aug. 2-5 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com Hill 411 Recon June 11-14 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
USS Decatur DDG31 Sept. 10-14 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com USS Hawkins DD873/DDR873 May 14-18 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com USS Joseph Strauss DDG16 Nov. 7-12 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
Johnson Air Base Oct. 1-4 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
USS Seattle AOE3 Sept. 8-13 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
Little Bear Association April 29-May 3 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
USS Sea Poacher Nov. 8-12 Grand Plaza pamb@gatheringsplus.com
67th Armored Division June 29-July 3 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
MCB 11 Association Sept. 14-18 Camden Hotel and Conference Center pamb@gatheringsplus.com
901/302 Reunion Sept. 15-19 Grand Plaza pamb@gatheringsplus.com
Moroccan Reunion Association Sept. 9-13 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
2016 REUNION LISTINGS 9th Infantry Division May 2-6 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
Pershing Missile Association June 17-20 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
24th Evacuation Hospital Vietnam Sept. 7-11 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
PQT Submarine Veterans May 14-18 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
USS Hopewell DD681 Oct. 3-7 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
Automatic 8th Sept. 21-25 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
USS Altair AKS32 Oct. 11-15 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
USS Navarro Oct. 17-21 Grand Plaza Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
Aviano Association Sept. 28-Oct. 2 Grand Plaza pamb@gatheringsplus.com
USS Buck DD761 May 3-7 Clarion Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
USS Saratoga Oct. 8-13 Radisson Hotel pamb@gatheringsplus.com
999th AFA – NEVERDIE – Korean War Veterans Sept. 25-28 Anne Talaska 414-421-4189 amtalaska@sbcglobal.net Residence Inn
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Reunion coordinator joins tour & travel company OZARKS KIRKWOOD TOUR & TRAVEL Ozarks Kirkwood Tour & Travel is pleased to announce the addition of Sarah GreenHord to their staff as their Reunion Coordinator. Sarah has created friendships with veterans and veterans’ organizations across the country over her years as the military reunion specialist at the Radisson Hotel Branson. She has a passion for finding those “little things” that make the big differences in planning a reunion to be a “memorable and repeatable” experience. Sarah is known for going that extra mile, to find everything from a motorcycle sidecar, to Vietnam Era metal mess kits filled with peaches and pound cake, events that are specifically for the ladies, and for locating guest speakers on Mesothelioma and Agent Orange in order to exceed your expectations. “…working with Sarah on the Branson Reunion was unique in that, her professional responsibilities aside, for Sarah her participation was personal. She became one of our shipmates. You see, Sarah loves her country and in particular, she loves its military veterans.” - Mike Neville USS Enterprise Fire Survivors.
courtesy of Ozarks Kirkwood Tour & Travel
Celebrating a welcome home with veterans Bob Womack, from left, Rockie Lynn, Sarah Green-Hord and John McKendree.
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ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 23
Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 1897 Branson, MO 65615
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PRESORTEDSTANDARD STANDARD PRESORT US POSTAGE US POSTAGEPAID BLACC/CVB PAID BLACC/CVB
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