The Branson Bugle - Spring 2019

Spring฀2019฀•฀Vol.฀15,฀No.฀7

College to dedicate Global War on Terrorism Memorial April 24 From College of the Ozarks

On April 24, 2019, College of the Ozarks will dedicate The Global War on Terrorism Memorial. This is the last installation for Patriots Park, a vision of College President Jerry C. Davis, and a tangible way for the College to honor its Patriotic Goal.

Pete Hegseth, cohost of FOX News Channel’s Fox & Friends Weekend, will serve as keynote speaker, and College alumnus and board of trustees chair, Gen. Terrence R. Dake, will give remarks.

Dake, a 1964 graduate of C of O, is the former assistant commandant of the United States Marine Corps.

He flew countless missions during the Vietnam War and in Operation Desert Storm. Dake spent 34 years in the United States Marine Corps, holding numerous titles and receiving many significant awards.

See MEMORIAL on Page 6

courtesy of College of the Ozarks

An artist’s rendering of the Global War on Terror Memorial at College of the Ozarks’ Patriots Park.

The memorial will be dedicated during a ceremony on April 24.

Veterans Homecoming Week is noVember noV. 5-11 explorebranson.com/Veterans

Avenue of Freedom honors heroes with Old Glory

By Brenda Meadows Branson Veterans Task Force

The nearly 100 American flags displayed along the Avenue of Freedom on Gretna Road displays a placard that bears the name of “a hero” that friends, family or military brothers and sisters have sponsored. Each of those flags along the Avenue, hosted by the Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF), represents a veteran, first responder or present day warrior.

The Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF) is in its 18th year of placing flags on the poles along the 1.5 miles of personalized memorials, supported by donations.

When sponsorships from individuals, schools, organi-

zations or businesses are received, the flags remain on the poles 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.

Members of the BVTF and helpers from around the nation have been making sure the flags on display are monitored. If any one of the flags gets blown from its pole, or hangs loosely by one corner, it is noticed or reported by caring community residents or visitors.

“The Task Force and many volunteers have been making sure the flags fly without incident and all placards remain in place,” said Vietnam Veteran Steve

Weyher, Avenue of Freedom committee chairman.

They let us know about two weather-resistant flags flying from each of the light poles in the center island of Gretna.”

Suddenlink, with its employee, Randy Brott, supply the lift truck needed to place Old Glory on the poles.

The community is committed to keeping the avenue maintained on poles that are the property of Empire Electric; Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 913; and the City of Branson.

Forms to sponsor a flag can be downloaded at bransonveterans.com. Call 417-337-8387 or email bvtfmo@hotmail.com.

courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

Each of the American flags along the Avenue of Freedom, hosted by the Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF), represents a veteran, first responder or present day warrior.

Vietnam Veterans of America 913 member Mike Yates helps place a placard on a pole along the Avenue of Freedom on Gretna Road.

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Dining, dancing, birthday cake at annual Military Gala From P.O.W. Network

The Marine Corps will celebrate its 243rd birthday on Sunday, November 10. This year’s celebration in Branson is part of the 23rd Annual Military Gala & Banquet, hosted by the P.O.W. Network, paying tribute to those who had military service or are serving now.

All branches of service and the public are welcome at the Chateau on the Lake Resort for an evening of dining, dancing, and fireworks. The ceremony closes the weeklong Branson Veterans Homecoming, but for the Veterans Day Parade on Monday. A private cocktail and social hour for attendees will kick off the eve-

ning at 5 p.m. with dance music provided by Party To Go. The DJ is Ed Caffrey, United States Air Force retiree, and his wife Ty. Portraits by SwiftShots and a cash bar are available all evening.

Colors are posted, with a POW/ MIA candlelight service and traditional military toasts before dinner is served. Marine Corps guests will join in the worldwide celebration of their birthday with recognition of the oldest and youngest Marine present and cake cutting during dinner.

An American-made, outdoor fireworks display by AM Pyrotechnics takes place at intermission.

The second half of the evening includes introductions of unique attendees, branch-of-service recognition, and the presentation of the annual Patriotism Award for outstanding service within the veterans’ community.

After the Colors are retired, the evening closes with more music and dancing.

Tickets are required, and business dress or formalwear is requested. Tickets are $55 each for the evening, which includes dinner, and wine for the toasts.

Reunion groups are urged to reserve group seating early. For tickets, call P.O.W. Network, 417-336-4232.

courtesy of P.O.W. Network

Military Gala attendees watch a fireworks display in this 2018 photo

courtesy of Branson Tri-Lakes News

courtesy of P.O.W. Network

Damen Monschien, of Greenwood, Indiana, as the oldest Marine at the gala, draws the sabre for the cake-cutting One of three WWII veteran attendees, Harry Reed, Legion honors. The youngest Marine at the gala, Zachary McClurg, of Cross Timbers, Missouri, looks on. of Honour (France) recipient, and Sharon Robinson

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courtesy of P.O.W. Network

Above, dancing continued ‘til midnight at the annual Military Gala. Right, Dee Elledge accepts the 2018 Patriotism Award at the 22nd Annual Military Gala & Banquet Nov. 10 at Chateau on the Lake.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED TO SERVE VETERANS

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courtesy of Branson Tri-Lakes News

bvtf-mo@hotmail.com FREE November 5-10, 2019 Day Room Mess Hall Vendor Village

DONATE A few hours 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Snacks Items for Raffle

VETERANS VILLAGE 2019 CALL BRANSON VETERANS TASK FORCE AT 417-337-8387 At Ballparks of America, 1000 Pat Nash Drive The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 5

MEMORIAL from pg. 1 Mark McVeigh, Broadway actor and singer, will sing “God Bless America.”

He made his Broadway debut as Jean Valjean in “Les Miserables,” after having won the Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Actor. He reprised the role with the Los Angeles Philharmonic to soldout crowds at the Hollywood Bowl and again for the 25th Anniversary Tour of “Les Miserables.”

“We plan to make this ceremony memorable for all who attend,” said Bryan Cizek, director of patriotic activities.

“This is a grand opportunity for us to honor all Veterans of the Global War on Terrorism, Gold Star Families, and of course all those who continue to serve. We must remember freedom is not free. Someone pays a price for us to live in this great country and experience the freedom to pursue life, liberty, and happiness.”

Music for the momentous occasion will also include performances by the School of the Ozarks honor choir, the College of the Ozarks Concert Band, Chorale, and Chapel Choir.

“College of the Ozarks is honored to pay tribute to those who have defended, and continue to defend, people from all walks of life who are threatened by the evil ideology of terrorism,” said Dr. Marci Linson, vice president for patriotic activities and dean of admissions at College of the Ozarks.

About the memorial The bronze statue was designed by artist James Hall of Nixa, Missouri. The memorial represents all modern warriors who have faithfully served and sacrificed in the name of freedom. The warrior is depicted grieving over a Battlefield Cross, a symbolic cross representing a fallen hero killed in action. The fallen’s rifle is secured into the ground or boots, with a helmet on top – in this case, an

aviator’s helmet. Also depicted in bronze is a wounded service dog, symbolizing all dogs’ vital contribution in today’s modern warfare.

The wall behind includes the seals of all military branches. Each seal is made of stained glass and handcrafted by College of the Ozarks students.

The memorial was funded by the generosity of Johnny Morris, through the Bass Pro Shops Legends of Golf at Big Cedar Lodge, and made possible by the hard work of students and staff in the College of the Ozarks Construction Department.

The monument will be connected to The Korean War Memorial and The Missouri Vietnam Veterans Memorial by walkways, completing the master plan of Patriots Park.

The dedication of the memorial reflects the patriotic goal of the College: To encourage an understanding of American heritage, civic responsibilities, love of country, and willingness to defend it.

WHEN 2 p.m. April 24, 2019 WHERE Patriots Park, College of the Ozarks WHAT To dedicate The Global War on Terrorism Memorial, the final installation to Patriots Park WHO Fox News Channel’s Pete Hegseth will serve as keynote speaker, and C of O trustee chairman Terrance R. Dake will give remarks.

courtesy of College of the Ozarks

A rendering of a completed Patriots Park at College of the Ozarks. Patriots Park also includes the Korean War Memorial, The Missouri Gold Star Families Memorial, The Missouri Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the September 11 “Lest We Forget Memorial.” Next to the site is the Veterans Grove, where each tree represents a veteran who has traveled with students to various points of battle around the world as a part of the College’s patriotic travel program.

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Annual Rose Petal Ceremony honors military women

By Brenda Meadows Branson Veterans Task Force

The public is invited to the 16th annual Rose Petal Ceremony and Luncheon, noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9 at the Majestic Theater, 2849 Gretna Road in suite 200, home of the Murder Mystery Dinner Show.

The event, hosted by the Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF), recognizes women’s contributions to the United States Armed Forces.

Guests for the luncheon are required to RSVP. The luncheon is free to women veterans and active duty female personnel. The public (male or female) is invited to attend the luncheon for a donation of $10.

The buffet luncheon is followed by entertainment and an address by this year’s special guest speaker, retired Col. Michele Hovland.

The Rose Petal Ceremony portion of the event begins after a short break, when attendees release rose petals into a fountain of water in memory, and in honor, of women who have served or are serving in the military.

Col. Hovland began her military career in August 1982. She was commissioned as a second lieutenant, Air Defense Artillery, Regular Army. She worked with the German and Dutch Air Forces with the Nike Hercules nuclear missile.

She transferred into Signal Corps where she was stationed with the 24th Infantry Division. She was deployed to Saudi Arabia for Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

Later, she volunteered for assignment in South Korea where she served as company commander of the largest signal company in Korea.

After 10 years active duty, she pursued a career working with children. But, within two years she was back in uniform with the Army National Guard in California and Missouri. She served as 135th Signal Battalion Commander, Missouri Army National Guard’s first female Brigade Commander of the 70th Troop Command, the largest Brigade in Missouri with 3,000 troops. She also served as the first female from the Missouri Army National Guard to attend resident U.S. Army War College. She retired Aug 31, 2012.

Col. Hovland now works with children with her husband, retired Chief Warrant Officer 3 Darrell (OB) Hovland. They operate ‘Our Heroes Adventure Camp’ on their property in Jenkins, MO. The camp is for children of a wounded warrior or who have lost a parent in combat. The camp also hosts the children of police, firefighters and first responders killed or wounded in the line of duty.

For information or reservations call the BVTF Women Veterans Committee at 417-337-8387, or email bvtf-mo@hotmail.com.

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At the 2018 Rose Petal Ceremony, participants drop petals into water to honor women who have served, or are serving, in the military.

courtesy of Branson Tri-Lakes News

photo courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

photo courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

Retired Col. Michele Hovland is the special guest speaker for the 16th annual Rose Petal Luncheon and Ceremony noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9 at the Majestic Theater, 2849 Gretna Road, in suite 200. Guests for the luncheon are required to RSVP. The luncheon is free to women veterans and active duty female personnel. The public is invited to attend the luncheon for a donation of $10. Call 417-337-8387.

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Women Veterans of SW Missouri Members of Women Veterans of SW Missouri, American Legion Post 1214, enjoy the Rose Petal Ceremony in Branson, Mo., hosted by the Branson Veterans Task Force Nov. 9, 2018. Women Veterans of SW Missouri meets the third Saturday of the month in Springfield. To learn more about the group or the American Legion, contact alp o s t 1 2 1 4 @ ya h o o . com.

courtesy of Branson Tri-Lakes News

Photo courtesy of Women Veterans of SW Missouri, American Legion Post 1214.

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Branson High School JROTC Commander Daymiyara Rico drops petals into water with Branson Veterans Task Force member Brenda Meadows Nov. 9, 2018.

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College of the Ozarks students travel with veterans to Vietnam ENLIGHTENING TRIP PART OF PATRIOTIC EDUCATION TRAVEL PROGRAM From College of the Ozarks

College of the Ozarks sent 17 students, paired with six veterans, to Vietnam from Dec. 9-22, 2018, traveling as part of the Patriotic Education Travel Program.

The trip was under the direction of Bryan Cizek, director of patriotic activities. This was the College’s fourth time to Vietnam, but its 23rd Patriotic Education Travel Program excursion altogether, with trips representing World War II, the Cold War, Korean War, and Vietnam War. For this trip, the college sent a greater percentage of students, thereby maximizing funding. Additionally, participants engaged in more cultural experiences in addition to the patriotic aspects.

“It was encouraging for the veterans to see the positive impact their service in the war had made on the culture of Vietnam,” Cizek said.

See HỎA LÒ on Page 11

courtesy of College of the Ozarks

Col. John Clark, also a POW, discusses the atrocities of the prison with College of the Ozarks students and trip sponsors.

courtesy of College of the Ozarks courtesy of College of the Ozarks

The 17 College of the Ozarks students and six Veterans visited Hỏa Lò Prison, currently a museum, in Vietnam.

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Col. Tom Moe identifies himself in a photo on the wall of Hỏa Lò Prison (Hanoi Hilton) in Vietnam during the recent College of the Ozarks Patriotic Education Travel Program trip.

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HỎA LÒ from pg. 10 During this trip, students and veterans visited various sites of the Vietnam War, including Củ Chi Tunnels, Hỏa Lò Prison (Hanoi), the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), Hải Vân Pass, My Lai Memorial Site, Chu Lai, Monkey Mountain, and numerous military and cultural museums and sites.

A doorknob on the inside Two of the Veterans who traveled with the students, Col. John Clark and Col. Tom Moe, were prisoners of war in Hỏa Lò Prison, given the name “Hanoi Hilton” by the American soldiers. During their time at the Hanoi Hilton, Clark and Moe were cellmates. Including his stay in the Hanoi Hilton, Moe spent over five years in captivity – a total of 1,881 days.

“I’m ready to go back,” Moe said before entering the prison again. “I’m ready to go in there and not be blindfolded, handcuffed, or shackled.”

While touring the museum in Hanoi, Moe spotted himself in a picture that was

featured in an exhibit capturing the day that the American POWs were released.

The late Sen. John McCain was also featured in the picture.

“It has been a blessing to travel with Col. Tom Moe and hear his stories,” said senior Sara Pitts. “One thing we will remember from Moe is his optimism: ‘Every day that I wake up with a door handle on the inside is a good day.’”

Clark spent nearly six years as a prisoner of war, including four years at the Hanoi Hilton.

“As we toured the prison, Clark explained how the prisoners persevered through the atrocities of their daily lives,” said sophomore Kyle Stevens. “The prisoners developed relationships that helped them to endure the physical and mental hardships of captivity. This sense of unity served as a source of energy and stamina that gave them strength – a brotherhood that continues today.”

Each student wrote a blog on the day dedicated to their veteran. Read highlights from the trip in the blog: https://2018vietnam.wordpress.com.

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courtesy of College of the Ozarks

Col. Tom Moe stands in the cell he occupied as a POW in Vietnam. L-R Junior Rebekah Eklund, senior Lily Woolsey, and senior Sara Pitts were paired as traveling companions with Moe throughout the educational trip.

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ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 11

Annual POW/MIA remembrance to be held at Welk Resort Takes place in front of replica Vietnam Memorial Wall From POW Network

of the Vietnam conflict.

If weather permits, the 8 a.m. outdoor service on Wednesday, November 6, 2019 at the Welk Resort – 1984 Missouri 165, Branson, MO 65616 – will honor and remember those who fought for freedom, and lost their own, on foreign soil during times of war.

In case of inclement weather, the Remembrance Service will move inside to the theater.

There is no charge, and the public is invited.

For information, call the POW Network, 417-336-4232.

U.S. Air Force photo

Newly freed prisoners of war celebrate as their C-141A aircraft lifts off from Hanoi, North Vietnam, on Feb. 12, 1973, during Operation Homecoming. The mission included 54 C-141 flights between Feb. 12 and April 4, 1973, returning 591 POWs to American soil.

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As Vietnam drew to a close, 633 servicemen held captive made it home alive. At least 1,600 men remain unaccounted for in Southeast Asia.

Overall, there are more than 90,000 still lost or unaccounted for since the end of World War I as the search for those remaining, dead or alive, continues.

In front of the replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall, emotions and memories will be evident once again for the annual POW/MIA Service of Remembrance. The memorial notes the names of all those who are recognized as POW/MIA at the conclusion

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courtesy of Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 913

Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 913, presented a $20,000 check to the Branson Police Department for the purchase of a second K-9 officer for the city. The funds came from the chapter’s Special Projects portion of the 2018 Benefit Show. Pictured, left to right, is Sgt. Frank Hirahara, K-9 handler; Tyko, K-9 officer; Bob Sarver, VVA 913 public relations director; Chief Jeff Matthews; Asst. Chief Eric Schmitt; and Bruce Greeno, VVA 913 president.

Annual Sporting Clays Shoot

By Arlen Lipper Branson Veterans Events & Reunions

The Branson Veterans Events & Reunions Sporting Clays Shoot will take place Sunday, Nov. 3, 2019 at Ozarks Shooters Sports Complex, 759 U.S. Hwy 65, north of Branson.

Cost is $70. Fees include 100 targets, lunch, and drawing for door prizes.

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Trophies will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Furnish your own shells.

Shotguns are available to rent for $10.

This is a fundraiser.

For more information, call 417-2302278 or email bransonveteransevents@ yahoo.com.

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 13

Reunions and celebrations

By Dee Elledge, Sarah Hord, Kathy & David McAllister, Becky Jewsbury, with Mary Schantag and the P.O.W. Network

Shindigs’ Welcome Home Celebration Show Join us for our fourth annual Welcome Home Celebration Show at Branson Event Center in The Shoppes at Branson Meadows Nov. 5 from 3-5 p.m. Open to all veterans and their families. No reservations required. Contact Dee Elledge at 870-421-3511.

WWII Mini Reunion Nov. 5 will kick off with our salute to those who served during WWII. Join us from 1-2:30 p.m. at Branson Event Center in The Shoppes at Branson Meadows. This reunion is free to WWII veterans and their families. Reservations are not required. Stop in and join us for coffee, cobbler and a special show of appreciation from area entertainers. For more information or to volunteer to help, call Dee at 870-4213511 or Kathy and Mac at 417-230-1282.

Sandbox Party for Gulf War Veterans If you are a Gulf War veteran, you are invited to join

us on Nov. 7 from 8:30-10 a.m. at Mel’s Hard Luck Diner. No need to bring your shovels to this Sandbox Party. But you do need to bring yourself, a Gulf War buddy and your appetites! Once again, Mel’s Hard Luck Diner in the Grand Village is providing breakfast for those who’ve served in the Gulf War. 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 your favorite cereal with your favorite beverage.

Reservations not required. For more information or to volunteer to help, call Dee at 870-421-3511 or email Sarah Hord at Houndette2014@yahoo.com.

Homefront Heroes Holding down the Homefront while loved ones served our country has taken a toll on military families. Homefront Heroes will be honored from noon 'til 2 p.m. Nov. 7 at Branson Event Center in 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 today. Join our sponsor, Veterans Coffee Company, for lunch and entertainment. Seating is limited, so be sure to RSVP by calling Dee Elledge at 870-421-3511 or emailing your name and the number of people in your party to Sarah Hord at Houndette2014@yahoo.com.

Medics, Nurses, and Combat Vets Mini Reunion At Westgate Resort This reunion of Medics, Nurses, Combat Veterans and Evac Hospital personnel will be on Nov. 8 from 2-4 p.m. at the Grand Pavilion at the Westgate Resort at 2201 Roark Valley Road.

See REUNIONS on Page 15

courtesy of Branson Tri-Lakes News

The Hughes Brothers and several veterans sing “The Star-Spangled Banner” to open the Walmart Tribute to Veterans show Nov. 10, 2018 at the Mansion Theatre.

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REUNIONS from pg. 14 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, there are always stories about the courageous medics and nurses who saved their lives and the lives of their buddies. Too often, the names are never known on either side, but the appreciation and bonds endure.

At this reunion we strive to reunite combat veterans with the medics, nurses and Evac Hospital staff who saved their lives. For more information, contact either Sarah at Houndette2014@yahoo.com or Becky at Westgate Resort at 417-332-3557 or becky_jewsbury@ wgresorts.com.

courtesy of Branson Tri-Lakes News

10th Annual Walmart Tribute to Veterans Join us on Nov. 9 as we celebrate our first decade of bringing you the 10th Annual Walmart Tribute to Veterans show and luncheon. The pre-show will start at 8:30 a.m. at the Mansion Theatre with the show starting at 9. After the show, join us for lunch at Branson Event Center in The Shoppes at Branson Meadows. Once again, the area Walmarts, Walmart truck drivers and five of the finest distribution centers invite you to come join 2,000 of your veteran pals and their families to experience the fun, fellowship, great entertainment and lunch again 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 again this year. For more information about the event, visit http://www.veteransshow.com/ or call Dee Elledge at 870-421-3511.

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The Missing Man Table was displayed on the Mansion Theatre stage during the 2018 Walmart Tribute to Veterans.

Korean War Mini Reunion The Korean War is often called the Forgotten War, but here in Branson, no veteran is forgotten. Stone Castle Hotel is once again provid-

ing your favorite room for us to gather from 2-4 p.m. on Nov. 9. Come enjoy the entertainment and story-telling to keep your history alive. Don’t let your knowledge and heroism be forgotten. For more information contact Kathy and Mac at 417-230-1282.

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ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 15

New earlier time for Vets for Vets Celebration Yakov to return for 2019 show

By Brenda Meadows Branson Veterans Task Force

Yakov will once again join the 2019 Branson Veterans Task Force “Vets for Vets Celebration Show,” which starts at 1 p.m. on Nov. 5 in the Mansion Theater, 189 Expressway Lane. Theater doors will open at noon.

The Branson Veterans Task Force (BVTF) received many requests for Yakov to return to the Vets for Vets stage after his appearance last year. Chairperson Brenda Meadows asked Yakov, who has entertained veterans and troops stateside and abroad, to come back this year. He replied, “We will be there.”

Vets for Vets is designed as a USOstyle production. It is made up of active duty military or veterans who are entertainers, and includes former United Service Organization (USO) alumni.

The show celebrates its eighth year in Branson and its third year sponsored

by Branson’s IMAX Entertainment Complex.

Paul Bluto, Branson’s IMAX Entertainment Complex owner, has attended the show faithfully, even celebrating his 90th birthday last year.

This will be the second year for Built Right, LLC to be a sponsor.

Sons of the Silver Dollar will join familiar faces on the Vets for Vets docket. Barbara Fairchild with Roy Morris, Brandon and Megan Mabe of the Baldknobbers, Gordy and Debbie, Negdra Culp’s Salute to Aretha, dancer Vietnam vet Norvin Breek, Army veteran Janice Martin, The Golden Sounds of the Platters with Vietnam veteran Eddie Stovall and others.

See SHOW on Page 17

courtesy of Branson Tri-Lakes News

U.S. Army veteran Janice Martin is a regular performer at the annual Vets for Vets Show. This year’s show will be held Nov. 5 at the Mansion Theatre.

courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

Back by popular demand, the comedy of Yakov will be featured in the Vets for Vets Celebration Show Nov. 5 at 1 p.m. in the Mansion Theater, 189 Expressway Lane, Branson.

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courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

Sons of the Silver Dollar, featuring Army Veteran Rick Watson, will perform in the Vets for Vets Celebration Show at the Mansion Theater, 1 p.m. on Nov. 5. No tickets will be issued, the free show is open seating.

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SHOW from pg. 16 “Only in America would this be possible,” said Yakov. “That a Russian could become an American, and ‘Make America Laugh Again’! What A Country!”

Vets for Vets is a free show for vets and their families. No tickets are issued, and seating is on a first-come basis.

A donation for the Branson Veterans Task Force (a 501c3 organization) will be received.

For information, call 417-3378387 or email bvtf-mo@hotmail.com.

courtesy of Branson Tri-Lakes News

Bryan Lawson and Jon Sousan perform at a previous Vets for Vets Show. This year’s show will take place Nov. 5.

courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

Barbara Fairchild and Roy Morris will entertain veterans and their families at the Mansion on Nov. 5 at 1 p.m.

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Veterans Village honors WWII and Korean vets

By Brenda Meadows Branson Veterans Task Force

Branson Veterans Task Force hosts its 2019 Veterans Village at Ballparks of America in Building 2, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ballparks of America,1000 Pat Nash Drive, Nov. 5-10. On specified days at the event WWII and Korean veterans will be recognized and honored in the Day Room and Mess Hall.

Those who served during WWII gather on Nov. 6.

Korean War Veterans will be recognized on Nov. 8.

On each of those days the veterans will be asked to share personal stories in the Day Room. All veterans, on the day when their group is honored, will be escorted and seat-

ed for their free lunch in the Mess Hall at noon. And on their specific days, a group photo of the veterans will be taken at 1:30 p.m.

Veterans and their families and volunteers annually attend the Village’s Day Room, Vendor Village and Mess Hall.

The Day Room is modeled after a USO canteen with snacks, coffee and live music. Live music, provided by a “Round Robin,” is comprised of veterans or volunteer musicians who take turns leading a song as the musical “circle” rotates after each number.

Some of the veterans come in wheelchairs, escorted by family

members or with the aid of walkers.

Nothing seems to 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. Some of them return alone to spend time with people who have become “like family.”

Veterans Village annually hosts its 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 for information, or email bvtf-mo@hotmail. com.

courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

The Veterans Village Mess Hall serves Korean War Veterans on Nov. 8, 2018.

courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

Veterans Village, 1000 Pat Nash Drive, gathered Korean War vets for an outside photo in 2018.

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WWII Veterans pose at Veterans Village, 1000 Pat Nash Drive (Ballparks of America), where they were honored during Veterans Homecoming Week in 2018.

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courtesy of Branson Veterans Task Force

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A HUG 51 YEARS IN THE MAKING Marine’s daughter meets man who served with her father in Vietnam

By John Robinson Branson Tri-Lakes News

courtesy of Branson Tri-Lakes News

It was a hug 51 years in the making as Kimberlee Thompson met Ben Bydalek for the first time Friday. Bydalek served with Thompson’s father in Vietnam.

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Growing up, Kimberlee Thompson knew little about her father besides his name, James David Borawski, and that he was a United States Marine who died in Vietnam.

Nov. 9, 2018, more than 50 years after the death of a father she never knew, Thompson met retired U.S. Marine Ben Bydalek, who served with, and was a friend of, Borawski.

The two met in person for the first time in the Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks, near Branson, Missouri.

According to the pair, it was a hug 51 years in the making.

“It feels like home,” Thompson said. “That’s what it felt like, I’m finally there.”

Bydalek said the memory of his friend, who he called “Ski,” is something he has relayed to everyone he meets over the years.

“I feel a little more whole now,” Bydalek said. “I’ve carried this memory and made him visible for 51 years.”

Bydalek said it was about 3 a.m. on May 3, 1967, when their position came under mortar fire.

“After the mortars stopped I found Ski who was 5 feet away from me and held him and called for the corpsman,” Bydalek said.

According to Bydalek, he was called in to identify Borawski’s body, as well as help answer a letter sent from his family.

It wouldn’t be until years later, according to Bydalek, after visiting Washington, D.C., he stopped by the Marine Corps archives and found contact information for Borawski’s family. After getting in touch with them, Bydalek said he learned his friend had a daughter, Thompson, who was 18 at the time.

See HUG on Page 21

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The Branson Bugle

HUG from pg. 20

courtesy of Branson Tri-Lakes News

Ben Bydalek and Kimberlee Thompson stand next to the name of Thompson’s father at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at College of the Ozarks.

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“When I was made aware the girlfriend existed, that the daughter existed, I wanted so much to get in contact with them, but the family was aloof.”

The two got in touch in December of 2017, thanks to the virtual Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.

Thompson communicated with another friend of her father’s from the war, who shared her phone number with Bydalek.

“It was always a goal for me to find someone who served with him,” Thompson said.

“So I could find out about him.”

After receiving the first message from Bydalek, Thompson said it took her a while to be able to respond.

“Kind of like meeting, I know I would’ve been completely emotional,” she said. “But when I did, I felt better.”

In her conversations with Bydalek, Thompson said she was able to learn the story of what happened the night he died, as well as the type of person he was.

Above all else, Bydalek said he wanted Thompson to know her father was a good person.

“Good people find good people,” Bydalek said relaying the story of the close group of friends in his unit. “Ski was part of that group, the kind of person if you said ‘Can you take my OP tonight?’ he would do it ... We had a lot of responsibilities, shared responsibilities where we had to rely on somebody else to help get it done, and he was the type of person you could rely on. If he indicated he would do something, he could do it.”

Bydalek also said Borawski was very empathetic, especially in regard to the Vietnamese children.

“Someone had access to books, and before he died, on the trip between Hill 54 and Tam Ky, he had said he was going to have someone send some books for the children,” Bydalek said.

While the memory of Borawski has been a bittersweet one over the years, on Nov. 9, Bydalek said, there was nothing but joy.

“There isn’t any sadness today, there’s just joy,” Bydalek said. “I have no doubt he’s up with all our other Vietnam veteran friends.”

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 21

Enjoy ‘Music on the Lake’ in Kimberling City through summer From Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1119

Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1119 in Kimberling City is continuing their honored position on serving other veterans in the Tri-Lakes area. 2019 is looking up to be an exciting year for our Chapter Members.

Our Music on the Lake for 2019 is in full swing with many new sponsors supporting this year event. This is a fundraising event which helps us support veterans and their family when assistance is needed.

The season starts off on May 11, 2019, and will be running through Sept. 28, 2019. This event is held every other Saturday night starting at 7 p.m. and ends around 9 p.m.

This is a free event to the public. Just bring your lawn chair and enjoy the music. Music on the Lake is held in the Kimberling City Shopping Mall on Missouri Hwy. 13.

Our chapter will be conducting several more fundraising events throughout the coming year. Check out our website at www.vva1119.com, and come help us support our veterans locally.

Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1119 Honor Guard and Color Guard members have been very busy.

Our upcoming year looks even busier with some events already booked into the year 2020.

If you’re interested in joining an organization dedicated to helping our brother and sister veterans and the community, come check us out. We meet every third Monday of the month at the Kimberling City Elks Lodge 2505. Dinner is served by the Elks starting at 5:30 p.m. and the meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. Hope to see you soon.

Westgate hosts Navy memorial service, Hotrods & Heroes

By Becky Jewsbury Westgate Resorts

Navy Memorial Service Mark your calendar for Nov. 7, and make plans to join the Westgate Family, host Carl Dietrich and other distinguished members of our military community as we host a public bell-tolling

ceremony to honor the lives and service of Naval shipmates. Please join us at 8:30 a.m. for coffee and entertainment, followed by the service, which will begin at 9 a.m. The service, which is free and open to the public, will be held in the Grand Pavilion at Westgate Branson Woods Resort, which is lo-

cated at 2201 Roark Valley Road. For more information, call 417-332-3557, or Becky_Jewsbury@wgresorts.com.

Westgate Hosts Hotrods & Heroes Hey Heroes! We want to see your hot rods. Bring them to Veterans Homecoming Week events in Branson, Nov.

9-11 and enjoy a show-and-shine car show, vehicle participation in the Veterans Day parade, lodging at Westgate Branson Woods, nightly shows and much more.

Please call 417-332-3557 for more information.

Events hosted by Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 913 From Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913

Veterans Benefit Show On May 20, 2019, Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913 will present the 16th Annual Veterans Benefit Show at the Hamner Variety Theater, with preshow at 6:30 p.m. featuring the Ozark High School JROTC drill team and the main show at 7 p.m. Tickets are only $15 per person for three hours with Branson entertainers. Funds go toward our Veterans Assistance Program, Special Projects and our Scholarship Pro-

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grams. Call the theater at 417-334-4363 for tickets.

Run for a Vet June 8, 2019 will be our 5th Annual Run for a Vet, 5k Half Marathon Race at the Dewey Short Visitors Center on Missouri Hwy. 165. Go to our website at www.vva913.com to the events tab and print off the application and details.

Trout Fishing Tournament Oct. 26, 2019 will be our 6th Annual Trout Fish-

ing Tournament on Lake Taneycomo at Scotty’s Trout Dock and Marina. Go to our website under events, to print off the flyer and application Veterans Day Parade Nov. 11, 2019 will be the 87th Annual Veterans Day Parade. We are proud to once again host this great event and hope you plan on attending. You may get an application for entry into the parade or see the route by simply going to our website at www.vva913.com.

Go to the events tab to secure that info.

The Branson Bugle

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Images from the 2018 Branson Veterans Day Parade, this page and facing page.

The 87th Annual Veterans Day Parade will be held in downtown Branson at photos courtesy of Branson Tri-Lakes News 11 a.m. Nov. 11.

The Branson Bugle

ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 23

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

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Supporting our Local Heroes 200฀Industrial฀Park฀Drive,฀Hollister,฀MO฀65672฀•฀417-334-3161