Spring 2018 • Vol. 15, No. 5
College to dedicate The Korean War Memorial By Brittany Weaver College of the Ozarks Senior
Patriots Park is home to several memorials that highlight the valor of our country’s brave service men and women. On April 18, 2018, at 2:30 p.m., the college will dedicate the newest addition to Patriots Park, The Korean War Memorial. The park is located at the entrance of the college campus, 1 Opportunity Avenue in Point Lookout. “The Korean War was a crucial time in our military history, and our servicemen and women deserve to be honored,” said C of O President Jerry Davis. The newest memorial will serve as a reminder of the sacrifices all Korean War veterans made to serve their country, including the 36,574 Americans who paid the ultimate sacrifice. “It’s important that we never forget what these men and women sacrificed for our freedom,” Davis said. The dedication of the memori-
al also reflects the patriotic goal of the college: To encourage an understanding of American heritage, civic responsibilities, love of country, and willingness to defend it. However, for one C of O freshman criminal justice major, True Kinser, this memorial hits close to home. Kinser’s great-great-uncle, Sgt. Norman Earl Painter, officer of the 17th Infantry Regiment of November 1950, lost his life during the Korean War. The following Q & A is the legacy of Sgt. Painter, as told by his nephew. The interview explains how C of O’s newest memorial will honor the life he lived and the death he and 36,574 Americans endured for the freedoms we enjoy today. Q. How did your family member’s involvement in the Korean War affect you personally, or how has his story shaped your knowledge of the Korean War?
courtesy of College of the Ozarks
See MEMORIAL on Page 14
Sgt. Norman Earl Painter was an officer in the 17th Infantry Regiment.
Veterans Homecoming Week is November Nov. 5-11 ExploreBranson.com/veterans
DAV partners play key role in Branson’s hit show 011832
By Darryl Ostrom DAV Chapter 68
Darryl and Mary Ostrom were somewhat perplexed after receiving a phone call from New York actor Jody Madaras of the All Hands on Deck! Show in 2014. The energetic song-and-dance man had written a 1942 Roadshow & Radio Broadcast complete with nine-piece band, and had chosen the Branson Disabled American Veterans Chapter 68 (DAV) as the beneficiary of a fundraising performance during Veterans Homecoming Week in 2014. “I did my research and discovered just how important the DAV’s mission is, especially in Branson,” said show creator Jody Madaras. “Since the AHOD! Show features a musical message of American unity, I wanted (the DAV) to share in the fun and the benefits.” Madaras was trying out his musical show in Branson to see if there was longevity to his efforts. Little did they know that this one-time performance would lead the Branson DAV members to active entertainment duty and lifelong friendships. The following year’s benefit performance – over 1,400 in attendance – led Madaras and the Ostroms to the realization
that their partnership was a match wellmade. Providing support and assistance to the AHOD! Show meant volunteering as greeters, ushers and support staff. Beginning in March 2016, the AHOD! Show and Branson DAV began offering the show daily to thousands of veterans who visit the Live Music Show Capital of the World throughout the year. Branson DAV members had found an expanded sense of purpose. Ushering is a great way for veterans to remain social with each other, meet new friends (and old ones) and remain active in their community. “I wanted to get up and dance in the aisle. Being a DAV Auxiliary volunteer for this great show is so much fun,” said past Missouri Auxiliary State Commander Mary Ostrom. The “can do” spirit of the Branson DAV and the AHOD! Show has folks dancing in the aisles. “Thanks to Jody and his Broadway musical show, our DAV Chapter has received over $3,000 in donations during the past couple of years. Just as important, the show provides a huge platform to the public about the DAV and our great service mission,” said DAV Chapter 68 MO Past Commander Darryl Ostrom.
courtesy of Don Farquhar
The stars of “The All Hands On Deck! Show” offer audiences a 1942 patriotic salute.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS May 12-Oct. 13 MUSIC ON THE LAKE: Vietnam Veterans of America Tri-Lakes Chapter 1119 hosts Music on the Lake, a free concert series, from 7-9 p.m. starting May 12 and ending Oct. 13 on alternating Saturdays at the Kimberling City Shopping Mall. For info, call Stan Sharp at 417840-3170. July 21 GOLF TOURNAMENT: Vietnam Veterans of America Tri-Lakes Chapter 1119 will host its annual golf
tournament at 8 a.m. July 21 at Holiday Hills Golf Club. Call Charles Riley at 417-331-0973. Sept. 11 9/11 REMEMBRANCE: A 9/11 Remembrance ceremony will be held 7 a.m. Sept. 11 at Westgate Branson Woods Resort, in the Grand Pavilion at 2201 Roark Valley Road. Call 417-3323557 or email Becky_Jewsbury@wgresorts.com. 9/11 CEREMONY: A ceremony honoring those who
died on Sept. 11, 2001 will be held at 1 p.m. at the Branson Landing. Sept. 21-23 COMMEMORATIVE AIR FORCE: Branson Veterans Task Force will partner with the Commemorative Air Force for WWII aircraft exhibition and air show at Branson Airport. Call 417337-8387 or visit airpowersquadron.org. Nov. 3 FLAG LIGHTING: Vietnam Veterans of America
Tri-Lakes Chapter 1119 will have a flag lighting Nov. 3 in Branson West. Call Charles Riley at 417-331-0973. SPORTING CLAYS SHOOT: Branson Veterans Events & Reunions Sporting Clays Shoot is Nov. 3 at Ozark Shooters Sports Complex, 759 Highway 65, north of Branson. Registration forms are available at Ozark Shooters or call 417230-2278 or email bransonveteransevents@yahoo. com.
Nov. 5 VETS FOR VETS: The seventh annual “Vets for Vets Celebration Show” featuring Yakov is at 2 p.m. Nov. 5 at the Mansion Theater, 189 Expressway Lane. Open seating format is firstcome, first-served basis. Free event. Donations accepted. Call 417-337-8387. WWII MINI REUNION: A World War II mini reunion will be 1-2:30 p.m. at Jim Stafford’s Theatre. See CALENDAR on Page 5
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CALENDAR from pg. 4
SHINDIGS WELCOME HOME: A free welcome home celebration will be 3-5 p.m. at Jim Stafford’s Theatre. Sponsored by veteransshow.com. Call 417335-4668. VETERANS VILLAGE: Branson Veterans Task Force will host Veterans Village Nov. 5-10 at Ballparks of America complex in building 2, 4562 N. Gretna Rd. Call 417-337-8387. Vendor Village is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., a free day room from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and a mess hall
lunch that is free to veterans from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30; nonvets lunch is $6. Nov. 6 POW/MIA SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE: POW/ MIA Service of Remembrance is 8 a.m. Nov. 6 at Welk Resort Branson. Outdoor ceremony if weather permits. All are welcome, free. Call POW Network 417-336-4232. WWII VETS HONORED: Branson Veterans Task Force will honor WWII vets in the Dayroom at Veterans Village. Nov. 7 SANDBOX PARTY: The
Sandbox Party is 8:30-10 a.m. at Mel’s Hard Luck Diner. Call 417-335-4668. Nov. 8 HOSPITALITY ROOM: 4th Infantry Division Hospitality Room will be open from 2-6 p.m. at Savannah House. Call 920-860-1630. MEDICS, NURSES & COMBAT VETS MINI REUNION: A mini reunion is planned for Medics, Nurses & Combat Vets from 2-4 p.m. at Westgate Resort. KOREAN WAR VETS HONORED: Branson Veterans Task Force will honor
Korean War veterans in the Dayroom at Veterans Village. NAVY MEMORIAL SERVICE: A Navy Memorial Service is 9 a.m. Nov. 8 in the Grand Pavilion at Westgate Branson Woods Resort. Coffee and entertainment starts at 8:30 a.m. Call 417-3323557 or email Becky_Jewsbury@wgresorts.com. TREE LIGHTING: The fifth annual Spirit of Branson Tree Lighting ceremony is 5 p.m. Nov. 8 at Branson Westgate Branson Woods Resort, 2201 Roark Valley Rd. Call Event Coordinators Becky Jewsbury or Jenn Ev-
ans, at 417-332-3557 or email Becky_Jewsbury@ wgresorts.com. Nov. 9 TIME FOR PRAYER: Ozark Mountain Blue Star Mothers in Branson and Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America will host Time for Prayer at 10 a.m. Nov. 9 at Westgate Branson Woods, 2201 Roark Valley Road. Everyone is invited. Ozark Mountain Blue Star Mothers will also have a booth at Vendor Village. Contact Fran Davis, bsmmo2@aol.com. See CALENDAR on Page 6
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ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 5
CALENDAR from pg. 5
ROSE PETAL CEREMONY: Branson Veterans Task Force will host the 15th annual Rose Petal Ceremony Tribute to women veterans from noon to 2 p.m. Nov. 9 at the Clarion Hotel. The tribute includes a rose petal ceremony and women veterans appreciation gathering. Both are free to women veterans. Those not female active military/ veterans or non-veterans pay $10 for the luncheon. Call 417-3378387 or email bvtf-mo@hotmail. com to RSVP.
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Nov. 10 MILITARY GALA & BANQUET: The 22nd annual Military Gala & Banquet is Nov. 10 at Chateau on the Lake. There will be dinner, dancing, fireworks and USMC birthday cake. Public welcome. Reservations required. $55 per person. Call 417-336-4232. WALMART TRIBUTE: The Walmart Tribute is 8:30-11 a.m. at the Mansion Theatre and lunch is from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Shoppes at Branson Meadows. Call 417-335-4668.
HOMEFRONT HEROES/SPOUSES LUNCHEON: Homefront Heroes will be celebrated from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Shoppes at Branson Meadows. Call 417-335-4668.
Nov. 11 VETERANS DAY PARADE: The Veterans Day Parade is at 11 a.m. Nov. 11 in downtown Branson. The parade is hosted by Vietnam Veterans of America Post 913. Call 417294-0728.
KOREAN WAR MINI REUNION: A mini reunion will be held for Korean War veterans is 2-4 p.m. at Stone Castle Hotel. Call 417-3354668.
Dec. 7 PEARL HARBOR CEREMONY: A Pearl Harbor Remembrance event will be at 1 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Branson Landing. Call 417-337-8387.
For Veterans Week 2018 activities at College of the Ozarks, call 417-690-2232
Veterans Reunions
199TH LIGHT INFANTRY BRIGADE REDCATCHERS June 18-21 Radisson Hotel Branson redcatcher6667@yahoo.com USS THORNBACK April 9-12 Westgate Resort Barney418@frontier.com US NAVY WAVES Sept. 30-Oct. 4 Stone Castle Hotel Pegcam68@gmail.com
USS ENTERPRISE FIRE VETERANS September 27-29 Radisson Hotel Branson Ichabod1969@charter.net Sarah@OzarksKirkwood.com 417-335-4668 I-3-1 MARINES (KOREA) Grand Plaza Hotel October 6-10 Sarah@OzarksKirkwood.com 417-335-4668
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Prisoners of War and Missing in Action ceremony will be Nov. 6 In front of the replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall, which notes all those who are recognized as POW/ MIA at the conclusion of the Vietnam conflict, emotions and memories will be evident once again for the annual POW/MIA Service of Remembrance. As time has moved on, the names
of those whose remains have been found, had the cross next to their name, changed to a star, forever listed among their brothers on the Wall. At least 1,600 men remain unaccounted for in SE Asia. Overall, there are more than 90,000 still lost or unaccounted for since the end of WWI. If weather permits, the 8 a.m. outdoor service Nov. 6 at the Welk Re-
sort will honor and remember those who fought for freedom, and lost their own lives on foreign soil during times of war. The remembrance service will move to the theater in case of inclement weather. There is no charge, and the public is invited. For information, call the POW Network 417-336-4232.
VOLUNTEERS WANTED TO SERVE VETERANS
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By Mary Schantag POW Network
bvtf-mo@hotmail.com
FREE November 5-11, 2018 Day Room Mess Hall Vendor Village
DONATE A few hours 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Snacks Items for Raffle
VETERANS VILLAGE 2018 CALL BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE AT 417-337-8387 At Ballparks of America, 1000 Pat Nash Drive The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 7
Rose Petal Ceremony honors military women The public is invited to the 15th annu- Ceremony begins. Attendees are invital Rose Petal Ceremony and Luncheon, ed to release rose petals into a fountain noon to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 9 at of water in memory of, and in honor the The Branson Clarof, women who have By Brenda Meadows ion, 2820 W. State served or are serving in Branson Veterans Task Force Hwy. 76. the military. The annual event, hosted by the Bran- The BVTF offers the luncheon free to son Veterans Task Force (BVTF), rec- women veterans and active duty female ognizes women’s contributions to the personnel. The buffet lunch is open to United States Armed Forces. the public for a donation of $10. Guests for the luncheon are required The Branson High School Air Force to RSVP. Junior ROTC will provide the Rose Petal The buffet lunch is followed by en- Ceremony Color Guard. tertainment and an address by a special For information or reservations, call guest speaker. the BVTF Women Veterans Committee, After a short break, the Rose Petal or email bvtf-mo@hotmail.com.
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courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force
Air Force Veteran “Marjorie” places rose petals in a fountain in memory of women veterans. The public is invited to attend the annual event that honors women that serve in the military. For reservations call 417-337-8387. Lunch is free to women veterans and $10 to the general public.
To RSVP call 417-337-8387 or email bvtf-mo@hotmail.com
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Yakov joins Vets for Vets line up Yakov Smirnoff will be the featured guest at a first come basis. It is one of several events the 2018 Vets for Vets Celebrathat serves to kick off Veterans By Brenda Meadows tion Show, 2 p.m. Nov. 5 in the Homecoming Week, Nov. 5-11. Branson Veterans Task Force Mansion Theater, 189 Express Familiar faces on the Vets for Vets way Lane. The celebration, fashioned after a docket include ventriloquist/singer Jim Barber, BarUSO-style production, consists of military vet- bara Fairchild with Roy Morris, Brandon and Meeran entertainers or former United Service Or- gan Mabe of the Baldknobbers, The Bretts, Gordy ganization (USO) alumni. and Debbie, The Sunshine Dancers, with Vietnam The line-up of performing and viewing veter- Vet Norvin Breek, broadway performer Peggy Lee ans drew Yakov, who has entertained veterans Brennan, The Golden Sounds of the Platters with and troops stateside and abroad, to perform at Vietnam veteran Eddie Stovall and more. Vets for Vets. “Only in America would this be possible,” “I love being in Branson and seeing all the said Yakov. “That a Russian could become an Veterans, the active military, and their fami- American, and ‘Make America Laugh Again’! lies,” Smirnoff said. “That’s one of the reasons What A Country!” I choose to bring my show back to Branson A donation for the Branson Veterans Task during Veterans Homecoming Week.” Force (a 501c organization, bransonveterans. Vets for Vets is a free show for vets and their com) will be received. Call 417-337-8387 or families. No tickets are issued and seating is on email bvtf-mo@hotmail.com.
Yakov Smirnoff
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SAV E the DATE NOV E MBE R 2ND & 3RD BRANSON, MO
Sponsored By:
(417) 986-6407 email: rosiefestbranson@gmail.com The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 9
Annual Military Gala & Banquet is Nov. 10 The 22nd annual Military Gala & Ban- toasts followed by 2016 Branson Voquet will be held again at Chateau on the calist of the Year Rick McEwen, who Lake on Nov. 10. The will be entertaining By Mary Schantag day also celebrates the during dinner with POW Network 243rd birthday of the fireworks at intermisUnited States Marine Corps, and that sion. Party 2 Go will return to close the will be noted with a cake-cutting. evening after the guest recognitions The evening, filled with camaraderie, and annual award. fireworks, dining, entertainment and Tables of 10 or large groups are urged dancing, will start at 5 p.m. with a pri- to call early and one need not be milivate social hour. Music will be provided tary to attend. Reservations are required by Party 2 Go, while a photographer and as no tickets are available at the door. cash bars will be available. Cost is $55 per person. Sponsorship The gala itself will start with tradi- opportunities, information or tickets are tional posting of the Colors, a candle- available by calling the POW Network light POW/MIA service, and military at 417-336-4232.
courtesy of POW Network
2017 Patriotism Award recipient, past Missouri State American Legion Commander Betty Gonzales and POW Network Chairman and evening’s host Mary Schantag.
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Veterans Village honors WWII veterans From Branson Veterans Task Force
World War II veterans will be honored by Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF) in the Veterans Village Dayroom at the Ballparks of America complex, 1000 Pat Nash Drive, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 6. Throughout the day, WWII veterans are interviewed, share personal stories, get escorted to a free lunch and have a group photo taken at 1:30 p.m. More than a dozen WWII vets attended the first Dayroom celebration in 2016. There were 22 honored during the 2017 Dayroom recognition. “This will be Veterans Village’s third year to have a day that focuses on WWII Veterans,” said BVTF Chairperson Brenda Meadows. “They deserve our respect and gratitude.” Some of the veterans come in wheelchairs or with walkers.
But, it doesn’t dampen their spirits, keep them from sharing their stories or joining the live music sing-alongs. They also bring their spouses, friends and family members. And some return alone. “This past year a lady showed me the photo I took of her husband in 2016,” Meadows said. “She had on a vest and asked me to read the back of it. There was that picture of him, with an appliqué that read, ‘Widow of a WWII Vet.’ It touched my heart that she returned to our event alone. She said she feels at home there.” The Dayroom will host its second year to honor Korean War Veterans on Nov. 8. Veterans Village hosts a Dayroom, Vendor Village and Mess Hall Nov. 5-10. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the exception of Saturday when hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 417-337-8387 or email bvtf-mo@hotmail.com.
courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force
Willie Carlisle, Navy veteran, brought a photo of himself in uniform for WWII Veterans Day at Veterans Village last year.
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ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 11
Branson celebrates veterans By Sarah Hord, Dee Elledge, Kathy & David McAllister, Becky Jewsbury and with Mary Schantag and the POW Network
A variety of events are planned for veterans and their families throughout Veterans Homecoming Week. SHINDIGS’ WELCOME HOME CELEBRATION The third annual Welcome Home Celebration will be 3-5 p.m. Nov. 5 at the Jim Stafford Theatre, 3440 76 Country Boulevard. Stop by and enjoy the music of local entertainers. No reservations required. Contact Sarah Hord at 417-335-4668 or Sarah@OzarksKirkwood.com WWII REUNION In salute to the Greatest Generation, a World War II reunion is 1-2:30 p.m. Nov. 5 at Jim Stafford’s Theatre. It took “All Hands On Deck” to unite Americans during WWII. There were many sacrifices; ration books for food, drives to collect scrap metal, paper, and rags, and encouragement to purchase war bonds to help “Bring him
home sooner.” Now that they are home, come and enjoy free coffee, cobbler and entertainment. No reservations required. Contact Sarah Hord at 417-335-4668 or Sarah@OzarksKirkwood.com MEDICS, NURSES AND COMBAT VETS REUNION There will be a reunion for Medic, Nurses, Combat Veterans and Evac Hospital Doctors from 2-4 p.m. Nov. 8 at the Westgate Resort, 2201 Roark Valley Road. Reunions are the act of people getting together again after being apart. Among veterans, this usually results in your brothers and sisters welcoming you with open arms and sharing stories that can cause tears, but can also heal hidden wounds and fears. When combat veterans come together for their reunions there are always stories about the courageous medics and nurses that save their lives and the lives of their buddies. Too often the names
are never known on either side, but the appreciation and bonds endure. The keynote speaker will be Tommy Clack, a triple amputee from Vietnam War. Contact either Sarah at 417-335-4668 or Sarah@ OzarksKirkwood.com or Becky at Westgate Resort at 417-332-3557 or becky_jewsbury@wgresorts.com. SANDBOX PARTY The Sandbox Party will be 8:30-10 a.m. Nov. 7 at Mel’s Hard Luck Diner. No need to bring your shovels and buckets to this Sandbox Party. All you need to bring is yourself, a buddy and your appetites! Once again Mel’s Hard Luck Diner in the Grand Village is providing free breakfast for all veterans that have served in the “Sandbox.” Call Sarah at 417-335-4668. See VETERANS on Page 13
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VETERANS from pg. 12
No SOS here, just a hearty meal of biscuits and gravy and anything else “Cookie” can scrape together. Yes, we will have the “Cereal Give-Away” again so come ready to pair them up with your favorite beverages. RSVP by calling Sarah at 417-335-4668 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.to 4 p.m. or by email at Sarah@OzarksKirkwood.com. HOMEFRONT HEROES/SPOUSES LUNCHEON Holding down the Homefront while loved ones served our country has taken a toll on military families. Homefront Heroes will be honored from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 9 at the Shoppes at Branson Meadows. For those serving, knowing that someone was waiting for them to come home was always a comfort. The question is “Who comforts the one who is trying to get the kids to their school plays, and call the repairman every time something breaks?” The
spouses, of course! We want to say, “Thank you” to those of you who held down the homefront and those of you who continue to support your veterans now. Join our sponsor, Veterans Coffee Company, for a lunch and entertainment. RSVP by calling Sarah 417-335-4668 or Dee at 870-421-3511.
and their families to experience the fun, fellowship, entertainment and free lunch this year. We thank you for your service and sacrifice. The event will be co-hosted by the incredibly talented Barbara Fairchild and Roy Morris this year. Visit veteransshow. com or call Dee Elledge at 870-421-3511.
KOREAN WAR REUNION The Korean War is often called the Forgotten War, but here in Branson, no veteran is forgotten. Stone Castle is once again providing your favorite room for us to gather 2-4 p.m. Nov. 9. Come and enjoy entertainment and story-telling time to keep your history alive. Don’t let the current generation miss out on your knowledge. Call Sarah at 417-335-4668.
ONE-STOP SOURCE FOR VETERANS EVENTS We are asking everyone to go to our website and share military events around the country. When we launched www.VeteransShow.com we wanted to provide a place where you could find information about reunions and other veterans events, not only here in Branson, but across the country. If you have an event in another part of the country, visit our site and submit your event on the “Contact” page. Thank you, from Dee Elledge and Sarah GreenHord, to all the businesses, friends and veterans that have donated, supported and attended the events we co-hosted with the POW Network last year. It is such an honor to get to share that short week in November with the veterans and their families. We look forward to serving all of you in 2018!
WALMART TRIBUTE The 9th annual Walmart Tribute to veterans will be Nov. 10 at 8:30 a.m. at the Mansion Theatre with lunch served at the Shoppes at Branson Meadows. Once again, the local Walmart, Walmart truck drivers and five of the finest distribution centers invite you to come join 2,000 of our veteran pals
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ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 13
MEMORIAL from pg. 1
courtesy of College of the Ozarks
True Kinser’s great-great-uncle died while serving in the Korean War.
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A. Hearing the stories in my great-great-uncle’s letters strengthen my respect for all servicemen, both past and present. Learning about him through my grandmother, I realize just how much of an impact he had on my family, and how his death was deeply felt among my family members. His service and sacrifice gives me a sense of pride that such a noble man was a part of my family. Q. How did his service and sacrifice affect your family? A. His death had a deep impact on my family, just as many other families experienced during every war past and present. To lose him, especially in such tragic circumstances, was indeed a sorrowful time for my family. However, they found solace and a sense of pride in his sacrifice for his country. Q. Why do you think it is important for C of O to build a memorial honoring those who served in the Korean War? A. It is always important to remember where we have been, to help us prevent future mistakes or to bring hope in the midst of adversity. Memorials are eternal monuments to important human events we should never forget. While they are built to recognize our accomplishments, they are also meant to honor those men and women who did not live to get married, to watch their kids and grandkids grow up, and live the life they planned. That is why it is important for College of the Ozarks to build this memorial.
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Radisson Hotel Amenities: • AAA Three Diamond Hotel • Time Out Sports Lounge • Full Service Concierge • Room Service • Meeting/Banquet Space • Ask about our Military 10-600 people Package • Tour our “Hall of Heroes” • Heated Indoor/Outdoor Pool
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• 472 Spacious Guest Rooms • On-site Security/Indoor • 27 Whirlpool Suites Corridors • Handicap Accessible Rooms • Complimentary Wi-Fi • Refrigerators in every Room • Dedicated Bell Staff • Wildwood Bistro Restaurant • Guest Laundry • Serving Breakfast, Lunch & • Four over-sized Elevators Dinner
Room Options:
Two Queen Beds, King Suites, Family Suites and Jacuzzi Rooms
Grand Amenities Include: • Indoor Corridors and Elevators • Free Wi-Fi • Complimentary Breakfast Buffet • Guest Laundry • Plaza View Restaurant
• Meeting Space/On-site Pub on the Plaza Catering • Indoor Pool, Hot Tub and Fitness Center • Refrigerators in every Room
417-336-6646
www.bransongrandplaza.com • sales@bransongrandplaza.com
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 15
4th Infantry Division hospitality room By Elmer Wischmeier 4th Infantry Division
The national 4th Infantry Division Association will hold its seventh annual hospitality room at the Savannah House, 165 Expressway Lane, 2-6 p.m. Nov. 8. If you were or are affiliated with the Fourth Infantry Division, please join us during Branson Veteran’s Week. Among those who attended last year were many members of National 4th Infantry Division Assn., Wisconsin and Midwest Chapters, 4th ID Engineers and Charlie Company 1/8. Attendees include all who served in World War II, the Cold War, Vietnam, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2017, one 4th ID veteran came
all the way from Germany to reunite with his buddies. The Flames of Remembrance Ceremony will be held mid-afternoon. It is an event for those who had never experienced it before. The ceremony honors all units and all participants that have served under or with the 4th ID in all wars. The 4th ID and Charlie Company will also march in the Branson Veterans Day Parade this year. Join us on November 9th and again on November 11 for the parade. Share in the love and support Branson has for our veterans. For information email rrdufek2244@ comcast.net or call 920-860-1630 or 660-553-0843.
courtesy of 4th Infantry Division
Sue Swanigan
(417) 399-9047 swanigansue@gmail.com
Improves Health & State of Mind Devoted Companions Enrich Social Life & Boost Activities
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The 4th ID hospitality room will be 2-6 p.m. Nov. 8 at the Savannah House.
HOME OF THE ELITE KENNELS
Beverly Simmons
(417) 345-5864 bsimmons@positech.net
MPBAONLINE.ORG
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MPBA-MISSOURI PET BREEDERS ASSOCIATION
The Branson Bugle
Medal presented to veteran six decades later By Sara Karnes Branson Tri-Lakes News
In early November 2017, I met Korean War veteran Richard Peters at a groundbreaking ceremony for a memorial honoring “The Forgotten War” at College of the Ozarks. There, I learned more about Peters’ service history. He was sworn in the day after the Korean War started, and he completed three, nine-month tours with the U.S. Navy. Last week, I met with Peters again, but this time, he was receiving a replacement medal that has been lost for almost six decades. In 1951, Peters was awarded the China Service Medal while a member of the U.S. Navy. “When you’re 19 years old, it doesn’t really mean a lot. You put it in storage – in your sea bag – and they throw it in the hull somewhere and when you leave the ship, they give you your sea bag back,” Peters said at The Keeter Center in November. But when he looked in his bag, the medal wasn’t there. “That didn’t bother me because, what the heck, I was 21 and getting out to go to work.” It wasn’t until 1998 that Peters thought about the medal again when he began making a shadowbox for his eldest son. He wrote to a St. Louis affiliate about getting it back and, despite the medal being listed with his discharge papers, the U.S. government told Peters he wasn’t “entitled” to have it. “The fact that it was on my discharge (papers) didn’t make any difference,” Peters said. After almost two decades of corresponding with government offices, tracking down ship records and writing to state representatives, Peters was ready to give up. And he did. He wrote a letter saying: “I quit.” However, it was a little early to throw in the towel just yet. With the help of the Veteran and Military Coalition of the Ozarks and U.S. Rep. Billy Long, Peters finally received his missing medal Oct. 4, and it was pinned to his chest during a gathering Nov. 28 at The Keeter Center on the campus of College of the Ozarks. “They (the bureaucracy) never admitted they were wrong, and they never will,” Peters said. With his China Service Medal now, Peters said he can finally finish the shadowbox for his eldest son.
Sara Karnes • skarnes@bransontrilakesnews.com
Korean War Veteran Richard Peters received his China Service Medal on Nov. 28, 2017 at The Keeter Center.
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 17
Joshua Clark • jclark@bransontrilakesnews.com
Vietnam Era Veterans Reunion and show is slated for Nov. 9 at the Clay Cooper Theatre.
Vietnam Era Veterans Reunion returns Each year during Veterans Home- much smaller scale, a decade ago. coming Week, more than 1,200 peo- “We started nine years ago in the ple pack out the Clay parking lot at Charlie’s By Joshua Clark Cooper Theatre for Steak Ribs & Ale,” she Branson Tri-Lakes News the Vietnam Era Vetersaid. “Tony Orlando ans Reunion and show. This year, that came by, and that’s how we ended up reunion and show will celebrate 10 getting (veteran) Eddie Beasley his new years in existence when it is held 12:30 wheelchair. Anyway, we were there p.m. Nov. 9 at the Clay Cooper Theatre. for three years, then we moved to the Pam Brown, owner of Gatherings Camden Conference Center, where we Plus, and event planning service in stayed for four years. Branson, started the event, albeit on a “We quickly ran out of room to the
point that we knew the fire marshal would be after us.” In 2015, Brown spoke with Clay and Tina Cooper about using their venue. “They offered their theater for us to use, so we were there last year and we had a sold out crowd, just like we’ve had every year,” she said. “We have a line out the door of people trying to come in, but we’re just full.” The event always includes loads of door prizes, hours of entertainment,
lunch, and most importantly, fellowship between the veterans. Even though the event started as a “Vietnam Era” reunion nearly a decade ago, it has grown to include any and all veterans. “We welcome everyone to this event,” she said. “It’s all about bringing people together and showing our appreciation.” For information, visit reunionpro. com or claycoopertheatre.com.
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The Branson Bugle
photos by Joshua Clark • jclark@bransontrilakesnews.com
The Vietnam Era Veterans Reunion is at 12:30 p.m. Nov. 9 at the Clay Cooper Theatre.
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 19
The bonds of brothers: Vietnam veterans reconnect in Branson By John Robinson Branson Tri-Lakes News
For John Prendergast, the first contact with River Patrol Section 513 came from a man who held Pendergast’s father in his lap as he died. It was a meeting nearly a half century in the making. A group of Vietnam veterans, comrades and brothers from River Division 513, gathered in Branson, joined for the first time by the son of a fallen comrade. “I lost a dad, and they became dads to me, each and every one of them,” Prendergast said. “On (Sept. 15, 2017), when I met them all, it was very emotional. I was 7 years old when my father passed away and my mother raised three of us kids at home. Not knowing, and carrying this my whole life ... I needed to know. The chances of meeting and getting to find the people who served with my father and knew him, everything that was missing out of my life, all those years, I got some of it back through these gentlemen.” THE PATROL The night his father, Arthur Prendergast, 36, a 16-year Navy veteran serving his fourth tour in Vietnam, was killed, his team was coming in from a 12-hour patrol when they received a call of an outpost that was ambushed, according to Prendergast. “There was casualties and there was a town mayor who needed to be evacuated out who was accompanied by an Army colonel and a lot of kids,” Prendergast said. “It was a mission of mercy, it was really bad. They went in with two boats and picked up the wounded, the children, the mayor and the colonel.” With his father in the lead boat, the group came under attack. Prendergast said the rear boat sank with those on board making it to safety, the enemy then concentrated fire on the lead boat. “Ronald Lake, who was 19 years old at the time, was killed,” Prendergast said. “George Proffer, 34, the patrol officer was also killed and my father was mortally wounded. My father was at the controls and Phil (Yocum) was in the forward gun turret, and as he was firing at the enemy’s position, he was fired on and almost lost his left arm.” Making it out of the ambush area, both Yocum and Prendergast’s father were taken by helicopter for medical treatment. “(Phil) said the doctors came out and said my father didn’t make it,” Prendergast said. Prendergast said he was grateful to learn more about his father’s final heroic act. “In God’s eyes there is no greater love than to give up your life for somebody else,” he said. “Another thing I think about is ‘Suffer the little children unto me, for theirs
is the kingdom of heaven’ and those kids didn’t have to see the kingdom yet because my father sacrificed his life and so did George and Ron so those kids could live. That means everything to me.” BROTHERS REUNITE The first reunion for the members of River Division 513 came in 2005. With Billy Moore and David Taylor reconnecting thanks to the phone book, the internet and a little luck. “Thank God for the internet,” said Moore. While passing through Alabama, Taylor said he and his wife Judy picked up phone books calling every “Billy Moore” listed. “We get down there and it’s Billy and he says ‘Are you David Taylor? I’ve been searching for you for 40 years,’” Taylor said. “He kept saying ‘When I get home I’m gonna call you.’ So I ask ‘Where the hell are you?’ and he said ‘I’m in Fort Walton, Florida,’ and we were in Destin, 15 miles apart. From that moment on, we all got together.” Upon receiving an email from Taylor, Don Rogers said he was overcome with joy to reconnect. “I sat at my computer for an hour crying when I found that man, that’s how close we are,” Rogers said. “It’s been the biggest privilege and honor in my life to have served with
these men. It’s something most people won’t experience.” “We all went over there as strangers, and we all came back as brothers,” Taylor said. It was through Facebook that Prendergast was connected to his father’s brothers. Yocum said connecting with Arthur’s family left him speechless. “There are no words to express it,” Yocum said. “His daughters would write to me on Facebook all the time, and basically I adopted them. Then (John) came on and I said I knew him by pictures and email messages.” Besides a physical resemblance, Yocum said he sees in Prendergast many of the same qualities he saw in his father. “His dad was compassionate, caring and somebody who would do anything in the world for you, no matter what the cost,” Yocum said. “He’s a man’s man, and so is John.” Saying it was a feeling of relief, Prendergast said he is thankful for the opportunity to connect with his the members of River Division 513. “It was therapy for me, and I know it was for him because he won’t talk about those things,” Prendergast said “I was honored he spoke to me, and I just hope I did my father well to represent him and be here. I love these gentlemen, and we’ll always be in contact.”
John Robinson • jrobinson@bransontrilakesnews.com
Phillip Yocum, back row from left, David Taylor, Bill Fuller, Jack Anderson, front row from left, Billy Moore and Don Rogers all members of River Patrol Section 513 met John Prendergast, left middle, for the first time in Branson.
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The Branson Bugle
Joshua Clark • jclark@bransontrilakesnews.com
The Veterans Day parade is at 11:11 a.m. Nov. 11 in downtown Branson.
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 21
Sara Karnes • skarnes@bransontrilakesnews.com
Lt. Tom Payne sits in a Huey UH-1C helicopter at the Veterans Memorial Museum. Payne flew this helicopter when he served as a pilot with the 118th “Thunderbird” Assault Helicopter Company in Vietnam.
Pilot feels at ‘home’ in restored helicopter By Sara Karnes Branson Tri-Lakes News
A remodeled helicopter was reunited last year with the pilot who flew it during the Vietnam War. Lt. Tom Payne, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, sat at the controls of the Huey UH-1C for the first time in decades. The army green helicopter no longer flies, and is grounded right outside the Veterans Memorial Museum along 76 Country Boulevard. Payne served two tours and, from 1966-67, he was a pilot with the 118th “Thunderbird” Assault Helicopter Company in Vietnam.
“We would usually get our missions the night before and then we would get up before sunrise and go out, and the crew chief and gunner would already be there and we would walk around and check it, but we had total faith in what they did because they had to live in it and fly in it, too,” Payne recounted while standing beside the bird he flew. “The crew chief would have it all ready when we got there before sunrise and then we would climb up and look at the blades and then get in and crank it up and fly.” Walking along the side of the helicopter, Payne dis-
cussed the very first time he was hit by enemy fire. The shot was aimed at the cockpit, but ended up striking the second half of the helicopter. After safely landing, Payne requested the maintenance crew to shave the piece that was hit down so he could save the part hit by artillery. That piece is now mounted with a plaque dated Nov. 4, 1966. Despite not being able to remember every single mission, or just how many times he was fired upon, Payne said what he remembers the most are the people he was with. See PILOT on Page 23
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The Branson Bugle
A restored Huey UH-1C helicopter is at the Veterans Memorial Museum along 76 Country Boulevard in Branson.
PILOT from pg. 22
“They were really the ones we became so close to, and you were really concerned for their wellbeing,” Payne said. “Although, I never doubted that I would come home and I don’t think there was any time that I really had any great fear because, I don’t know, we were just young and full of vinegar. “We were always excited to do the mission because our motto for this was ‘Above the best.’” Payne said he would transport people, ammo, supplies, couriers carrying orders and more. “Helicopters are supposed to hover, but we gunships could not hover,” Payne said. “They were so heavy, we would cut the fuel load in half and then we would make a little skidding, running takeoff and then we could begin to fly.” Helicopters today are much more complex, he said. “You flew them based on your ability to control it, not so much as read the radios and read the instruments, because your attention was focused outside so much that you just had to know
how to feel for the helicopter and how to fly,” Payne said. “Very seldom did we just stick our head in the cockpit and fly. We were looking outside all the time.” It’s been more than 40 years, and Payne said the helicopters are diminishing. “We’ve seen a lot of them over the years but they’ve been disappearing to the junk yard or to foreign air forces,” Payne said. “I was invited down to Biloxi, Mississippi, for a decommissioning of the last two for the Mississippi Guard about four years ago, and they had two they were finally just getting out of their service.” Early last year, Payne said he was found by Geoff Gardisky, the man responsible for restoring the Huey UH1C. “About twice a day, I’d talk to him on the phone or the email and he’d say, ‘What about this?’ or ‘What about that?’ And, I’d say, ‘You got it,’” Payne said. “Geoff and I have had a close relationship the last two months as he did his research and found that this was in the 118th and he found my website.” “I wanted to make sure it was accurate,” Gardisky said with a laugh. Payne said he’d lie in bed at night
photos by Sara Karnes • skarnes@bransontrilakesnews.com
and think about those days in Vietnam flying the helicopter. “When you get in there, it just feels like home,” he said after sitting in the pilot’s seat of the newly restored, albeit
grounded, helicopter. To learn more about Payne and his platoon, visit 118ahc.org. The helicopter may be viewed at the Veterans Memorial Museum.
Lt. Tom Payne holds up a piece of the Huey UH-1C helicopter that was damaged by artillery on Nov. 4, 1966. It was Payne’s “first hit.”
The Branson Bugle
ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 23
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TRUE HEROES
Supporting our Local Heroes 200 Industrial Park Drive, Hollister, MO 65672 • 417-334-3161