the branson bugle - spring 2011
DESCRIPTION
Branson Missouri's official newspaper for veterans and active-duty military personnel. Published twice each year.TRANSCRIPT
Spring 2011 - Vol. 10, No. 1
Armed Forces celebration
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Come back forVeterans Homecoming
Week Nov. 5-11
By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
Branson is known for its annual fall celebration of vet-erans, but now many in the community want to take thecity to the next level with a two-day Armed Forces DayCelebration that pays tribute to active duty personnel.
“We feel it is important the active duty Armed Forcesget as much recognition as the veterans of the past wars,”said June Tillis, interim vice chairwoman of the BransonVeterans Task Force.
The 2011 celebration kicks off with a Armed ForcesGolf Tournament Friday, May 20, at Thousand Hills GolfResort. Registration for the 18-hole, four-person scramblebegins at 7 a.m. with an 8 a.m. shotgun start. The price is$100 per player and each team may include up to oneactive duty military personnel for free.
“It is like a celebrity tournament, but our celebrities areour active duty heroes,” Tillis said.
To register, call 417-337-8387. That evening, the Showboat Branson Belle will present
a Special Armed Forces Day Salute. The cruise begins at8 p.m. When making reservations, mention code 6308 fora special rate. Call 800-417-7770 for tickets.
The next morning, Saturday, May 21, the Boy Scouts ofAmerica will host a pancake breakfast at the BransonUnited Methodist Church, next door to VeteransMemorial Museum on 76 Country Boulevard.
The breakfast, which runs from 7-10 a.m. is open to thepublic for a donation and will be free to active duty mili-tary and their families. Tillis is hoping many from thecommunity will come out for the breakfast to show theirsupport of U.S. Armed Forces.
“The whole purpose is to have some mingling time withthem,” she said.
From 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. there will be Armed Forcesmeet-and-greets throughout Branson.
Marines will gather at the Starlite Theatre on 76, mem-bers of the Navy will meet at Savannah House at 165Expressway Lane, the Air Force meet-and-greet will takeplace at Branson Towers hotel on Shepherd of the HillsExpressway, members of the Coast Guard at the VeteransMemorial Museum on 76 and the location for the Army’sgathering is Lodge of the Ozarks.
Following the meet-and-greets is a Branson Doesn’tForget the Armed Forces Show at Tri-Lakes Center onMissouri 248.
“I want the meet-and-greets to give them a chance tomeet up together and when they get to the show, theysit together,” Tillis said. “We are going to have somegreat entertainers and we are going to have some greatspeakers.”
SCHEDULEMay 20th & 21st, 2011
Friday, May 20, 2011• 7 a.m., registration• 7 a.m., Armed Forces GolfTournament — Where theactive duty personnel are thecelebrities; one on eachteam.• 7 p.m., Showboat BransonBelle Special Salute to theArmed Forces
Saturday May 21, 2011• 7-10 a.m., BSA PancakeBreakfast — The Boy Scoutsof America will serve pan-cakes. Open to the public fora donation and free to activeduty and their families. • 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., ArmedForces Meet N Greet — Areunion of each branch of themilitary, Army, Navy, CoastGuard, Air Force and Marines.Each will have a special loca-tion to come together.• 2 p.m., Branson Doesn’tForget the Armed ForcesShow — A star-studded“USO” style show done asonly Branson can.
• See page 13 for the star-studded lineup
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With the advent of the New Year, 2011 looks to bea year of transition and exciting changefor the Branson Veterans Task Force. Oneof the most exciting changes for us is ournew office conveniently located on theworld famous West 76 Country Boulevardat the “God and Country WelcomeCenter.”
The new home of the Branson VeteransTask Force will be on the main floor ofthe Welcome Center and will be a place ofgathering.
It will give us the ability to host meetings and eventsfor reunions and other Veteran activities. We will haveindoor space, patio and decks, inspirational garden,information ticket center, clean public restrooms, andeven a “Canteen” to get drinks and maybe some lightchow. We’re located at 1116 West 76 CountryBoulevard less than a mile west of U.S. Hwy. 65. Besure to stop by on your next Branson visit.
Another big change for 2011 is that the Branson
Veterans Task Force has turned over the publishing of“The Bugle” to the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of
Commerce & CVB. Thename has changed to “TheBranson Bugle” to betterreflect the communitywide effort to supportVeterans and their fami-lies. We couldn’t be morepleased, as this has freedthe Task Force from thetime-consuming job ofputting out this important
bi-annual publication. We hope that you enjoy thesefuture editions of “The Branson Bugle” as much as wehave enjoyed bringing them to you over the last nineyears.
Of course, the money previously received from ouradvertisers will no longer be coming to us and we willneed to rely on your generous tax deductible donationsto help support the work of the all-volunteer BransonVeterans Task Force in the performance of our mission
to support the Veterans and Active Duty Service Menand Women and their families. We invite you to visitour website often to keep up to date on all of theVeterans activities, events, reunions, information, andarticles of interest at www.bransonveterans.com. And,of course, you can contact the Task Force by e-mail [email protected] or by regular mail at POBox 128, Branson, MO 65615. Our phone is 417-337-8387.
Other changes are in the works and will be posted onthe website as they occur. Please share this informationwith all your Veteran friends and associates. Andremember that our organization is entirely supportedby your generous donations and is staffed by dedicat-ed unpaid workers and volunteers that receive no reim-bursement for their time and expenses.
One hundred percent of funds received go to oursupport. Thanks for your continued support and under-standing as we move forward into a bright new future.We will see you on your next trip to Branson and lookforward to welcoming you to our wonderful new head-quarters.
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By Ernie Bradley, Chairman of the Branson Veterans Task Force Board of Directors
2011 filled with changes for Task Force
ErnieBradley
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Task force moves to the stripBranson Veterans
Task Force has spentthe last few months set-tling into a new locationon 76 CountryBoulevard.
For years, the taskforce’s office has beentucked away in thelower level of a building at theentrance of Pointe Royale. Late lastyear, the task force was able to workout a deal with the owners of God andCountry Inspirational Gardens and byJanuary, had made the move.
“I’m still stoked about having thislocation,” chairman Ernie Bradleysaid in mid-March.
He said as long as he has been withthe task force, he has felt it needed to
be on the strip.“The task force needs
high visibility,” he said.Not only does the new
location give the taskforce greater visibility,it also provides outdoorspace for reunions andspecial events in thegarden area.
“We already have our first reunionbooked for the garden in September,”Bradley said. “We have a lot of plansfor the gardens.”
A project to restore the gardens isalready under way.
Bradley said gardens will be avail-able for use not only to veterans, butalso the public for a donation.
By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
OFFICES OFTHE BRANSONVETERANSTASK FORCEhave moved toBranson’s strip,76 CountryBoulevard.
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes NewsCont. on 6
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Page 6 • ExploreBranson.com/veterans The Branson Bugle
MILITARYREUNIONS
FROM GATHERINGS PLUSBRANSONMILITARYREUNIONS.COM
& BRANSON VETERANS EVENTSAND REUNIONS
BRANSONVETERANSEVENTS.COM
USS WAHOO SS565/238,April 7-9, Branson,[email protected]
USS CUSTER APA40, April13-17, Barrington Hotel,[email protected]
CHARLIE CO. MCB 133,April 13-17, Best WesternBranson, [email protected]
LITTLE BEAR ASSOCIA-TION, April 27-May 1, HiltonPromenade at The Landing,[email protected]
508TH MILITARY POLICEALUMNI, April 2-May 4,Branson, [email protected]
35TH COMBATENGINEER, April 28, RadissonHotel, [email protected]
USS SAN PABLO, April 28-May 1, Lodge of the Ozarks,[email protected]
COMPANY G, April 28-May2, Grand Plaza Hotel,[email protected]
USS CARPENTER, April 28-May 2, Providence, R.I.,[email protected]
USS HARRY HUBBARD,May 3-7, Grand Plaza,[email protected]
USS HALFBEAK SS352,May 10-14, Radisson Hotel,[email protected]
USS HANCOCK, May 10-15,Lodge of the Ozarks,[email protected]
NORTHWEST PILOTSASSOCIATION, May 11-15,Grand Plaza Hotel, [email protected]
A CO 34TH SIG BN, May 12-14, Branson, [email protected]
HOLY LOCH ASSOCIA-TION, May 12-15 Holiday Inn,Norfolk, Va., [email protected]
15TH ARTILLERYVIETNAM 1966-77, May 12-15,Clairion Hotel, [email protected]
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TASK FORCE CONT.
When the BransonVeterans Task Force movedinto its new facility on 76Country Boulevard, itreceived much more than justa building.
The new location, known asGod and Country WelcomeCenter, Home of the BransonVeterans Task Force, is sur-rounded by gardens.
Until the task force movedinto the building on 76, thelocation had been for sale fora couple of years. Now, withthe task force moved in, theyare ready to revitalize the gar-dens and make their surround-ing a beautiful place for veter-ans and area visitors to gather.
“We want to make it like itwas years ago,” said task forcechairman Ernie Bradley.
He said work has alreadystarted on the garden’s waterfeatures and a few flowers arealready popping out of theground. Still, there is plenty ofwork to do.
The task force is getting ahelping hand, though, with thework.
A local Boy Scout who isworking toward an EagleScout rank is leading a projectto revitalize the gardens.
Garrett Anderson, Bransoneconomic development direc-tor and chairman of the BoyScouts Blazing Trails District,said the gardens will provideMichael Wachob with anEagle Scout project.
“He is a good kid,”
Anderson said. Wachob, along with the help
of volunteers, will repair andspruce up the gardens.
“The gardens really haven’tbeen cared for as they shouldhave been,” Anderson said.
He said surrounding a largeflag pole, which holds a 40-by-60 foot American flag, will
be an appropriate and respect-ful garden.
The project will be morethan adding flowers andshrubbery to the rest of thearea.
“We’d like to incorporatethings that honor the veter-ans,” Anderson said.
Bradley said he is grateful
for the help.“We are an all-volunteer
group,” he said. “Right now,we don’t have any paidemployees. We’ve got the bestlocation on the strip and wewant it to look pretty. Gettinghelp from the Boy Scouts willbenefit us, it will benefit themand it will benefit the city.”
By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
Scouts leading garden effort
THE NEW LOCATION for the Branson Veterans Task Force is surrounded by gardens that are beingrestored with help from local Boy Scouts.
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
Another highlight of the new location is an enormous flag thatcomes with it. By mid-spring, Bradley hopes a 40-by-60 foot flagwill flying high, greeting motorists as they come into town on 76.
The task force is sharing the location with a welcome center,where people can stop and receive information about the area, aswell as purchase tickets. The facility will be set up with four screenswhere information about the community and the task force will beshared.
Two days a week, Bradley will be in the office serving as a veter-ans and military-retiree benefits advisor.
“People can drop in or make an appointment to meet with me,” hesaid, adding that he’ll be available to talk to groups, as well.
“This is something I’m truly passionate about,” Bradley said.“You’d be surprised how many retirees don’t realize the benefitsthey have.”
The task force office is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday.
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MILITARY REUNIONS CONT.
Visit ExploreBranson.com/veterans forVeterans Homecoming events
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
ARMED FORCES CONT.
The show is free to those on active duty and their families. Admission for the general public is $10 for adults, $5 forstudents.
“It is a chance for the entertainers and the community to say ‘thank you’ to our Armed Forces,” she said.Tillis is hoping next year to expand the celebration and add a parade.In most recent years, Tillis said there hasn’t been any big celebration of Armed Forces Day.“Last year we cooked hot dogs here at the Veterans Memorial Museum and gave everyone a picnic lunch,” said Tillis,
who is also director of the veterans museum.She said in the fall, veterans are celebrated, specifically veterans from World War II, Vietnam, Korea and Persian Gulf.“This gives us a chance to honor anyone that served in the Armed Forces,” she said. “This is for anyone who served,
but we want to specifically encourage active duty to come and see what Branson is all about.”That isn’t the only reason for the new celebration.“It is also about educating us, the public, what the Armed Forces does for us,” Tillis said.
Persian Gulf War Cease FireApril 11, 2011
This day commemorates the offi-cial cease fire in 1991 of thePersian Gulf War and will be dedi-cated to the soldiers who servedin Iraq during Desert Shield andDesert Storm. The Branson VeteransTask Force will hold a prayer break-fast to commemorate the day ofthe signing of the Persian Gulf WarCease Fire on April 6, 1991. Thepublic is invited. For more infor-mation, call 417-337-8387.
Meeting for Special ForcesApril 16, 2011
Special Forces AssociationChapter 82, Rocky Versace MemorialOzark Chapter, of Branson, will hold ameeting and picnic at Pete Rothrock’shome on Pomme De Terre inPittsburg. For directions, contactRothrock at [email protected]. Terry Buckley, the guest speak-er at the November meeting and theyoungest member of the Son TayRaid, will attempt to make this meet-ing.
2011 Hand in Hand – BransonHonors Purple Heart Recipient
April 28-30, 2011Registration for this event is 8
a.m.-noon April 28. Everyone mustcome to registration to get an arm-band, next to Auntie Annie’sPretzel at Factory MerchantsBranson on Pat Nash Drive, just off
76 Country Boulevard. Openingceremonies will be held at 2 p.m.at the Hamner Barber Theater onShepherd of the Hills Expressway.This is free and open to the public.
There will also be a special pres-entation on benefitsfor veterans, focus-ing on women veter-ans and families.Disabled veteransare welcome. Thisevent is presentedby the NationalMilitary Order of thePurple Heart ServiceOfficers. This will besimilar to a town hallmeeting with questions andanswers.
On April 29, free entertainmentwill be provided at 10 a.m. at theHamner Barber Theatre. At 1:30p.m., there will be a free fishingtournament on Lake Taneycomo.You must have an armband and bepresent at the opening ceremony,where names for 40 fishermen andwomen will be drawn in the park-ing lot of Bass Pro Shops at BransonLanding. Anglers will use pontoonboats. All equipment will be pro-vided. The state of Missouri iswaiving the need for fishing licens-es. Boats will be provided byScotty’s Trout Dock and Marina.
A fish fry will be held at 6 p.m.at Taney County Airport in Hollister(the location could change).
From 1-3 p.m. will be registra-tion for the Purple HeartMotorcycle Run at Walmart inOzark. This run is open for all bik-ers, Purple Heart recipients, veter-ans and families. To ride or partici-pate, contact coordinator, TaneyCounty Sheriff Jimmie Russell, at417-546-7250 or 417-546-7185.
A closing ceremony will be heldat 3 p.m. at the Hamner BarberTheater.
Visit veterans.branson.com formore information.
BBQ and Casino NightMay 21, 2011
Vietnam Veterans of America,Chapter 913 will host its annual BBQand Casino Night. Plan to join in onthe fun and camaraderie. This eventis open to the public. For moreinformation and updates, visit bran-sonveteransevents.com.
Veterans Assistance BenefitShow
May 23, 2011The Vietnam Veterans of America,
Chapter 913 annual VeteransAssistance Benefit Show will beheld at the Hamner Barber Theater.There will be a silent auction andmuch more. The proceeds of thisevent go to assist veterans in need.This event is open to the public. Formore information, visit bransonvet-eransevents.com.
Are you planning a Military Reunion? If you’re aseasoned planner or a first-time planner, we inviteyou to Branson’s Military Reunion PlannersConference, Aug. 15-18, 2011. Contact DebbieChesnokov with the Branson/Lakes Area Chamberof Commerce & CVB [email protected] or 800-214-3661for more information.
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101ST AIRBORNE FIREBASE AIRBORNE ASHAU VALLEY, May 13-14, Grand Oaks Hotel, [email protected]
NAGOYA/KOMAKI AB REUNION ASSN., May 15-18, Branson, [email protected]
USS GRIDLEY, May 15-19, Grand Plaza Hotel,[email protected]
NNPU/PM-3A, May 15-20, Lodge of the Ozarks,[email protected]
697th ENGINEER COMPANY, May 18-22, Lodge ofthe Ozarks, [email protected]
USS RALEIGH, May 18-22, Branson, [email protected]
PILOT TRAINING CLASS 54E, May 23-26, GrandPlaza Hotel, [email protected]
COMPANY A, 227TH ASSAULT HELICOPTERBN, 1ST CAVALRY DIV. (AIRMOBILOE),VIETNAM 1965-72, May 26-31, Grand Plaza Hotel,[email protected]
864th ENGINEER BATTALION, June 1-5, Red LionHotel, Seattle, Wash., [email protected]
USS JASON ARH 1/AR 8, June 6-10, Regal Inn,[email protected]
55TH & 58TH WEATHER RECON, June 8-11,Savannah House, [email protected]
USS DAHLGREN, June 8-12, Grand Plaza Hotel,[email protected]
HILL 411, June 9-12, Grand Plaza Hotel, [email protected]
“A” COMPANY, 1st of the 501st, June 9-12, Lodge ofthe Ozarks, [email protected]
180TH RGT HEAVY MORTAR CO. 45TH DIV.,June 9-12, Branson, [email protected]
USS TULLIBEE, June 9-12, Radisson Hotel,[email protected]
DESLANT BOXING TEAM, June 10-12, Branson,[email protected]
1ST SEARCHLIGHT BATTALION, June 11-14,Radisson Hotel, [email protected]
USS FOX CG/DLG 33, June 16-19, Clarion Hotel,[email protected]
351st BOMB GROUP, June 16-20, Holiday Inn,Norfolk, Va., [email protected]
C CO. 1ST 22ND INF 4TH DIV. (VIETNAM 1966-74), June 16-18, Branson, [email protected]
OLD GUARD CHARLIE 4-3-11, June 20-24, Branson,[email protected]
30 FA RGT ASSN., June 20-24, Branson, [email protected]
ARMY ONE PRESIDENTIAL EXECUTIVEFLIGHT DET., June 22-26, Barrington Hotel,[email protected]
CHARLIE CO 1ST BN 5TH CAV. RGT & 1ST CAVAIRMOBILE, June 23-26, Branson, [email protected]
Memorial Day CeremonyMay 30, 2011
At 11 a.m., American Legion Post 220will hold its annual ceremony at theOzarks Memorial Park Cemetery on eastMissouri 76. A number of guest speakerswill be present for this Memorial Dayevent.
‘Veterans Freedom Fest’June 9-12, 2011
Branson Veterans Events & Reunions willhost a “Veterans Freedom Fest.” This eventis for all veterans, Reserve, National Guardand active duty. Visit bransonveteransev-ents.com for updated information.
Sporting Clays Shoot for ‘Honor Tour’June 11, 2011
Branson Veterans Events & Reunions inassociation with Ozark Shooters SportsComplex will host a Sporting Clays Shootfor “Honor Tour.” “Honor Tour” takes WWIIveterans to Washington, D.C., to visit theirmemorial. Fees include 100 targets, lunchand drawing for door prizes. This shoot isopen to the public. For more information,call 417-230-2278 or e-mail [email protected].
Flag DayJune 14, 2011
Do you have a flag that is torn, tatteredor worn out? You can turn it in for properdisposal at one of three locations inBranson: Frontier Flags (The Flag Store),212 S. Commercial Street, the parking lotof the Veterans Memorial Museum, 1250W. State Hwy. 76, or at the BransonVeterans Task Force booth by the fountain
at Branson Landing. The task force willalso be collecting donations at theBranson Landing on June 14 for theAvenue of Freedom. Hours are from 10a.m.-9 p.m. Tom Hayes is the BransonVeterans Task Force chairperson for thisevent. For more information, call 417-337-8387.
Korean War CommencementJune 25, 2011
The Harry S. Truman Chapter of theKorean War Veterans Association will hosta memorial ceremony marking the com-mencement of “The Forgotten War,”remembering veterans who returned andthose who did not. The ceremony will beheld at the Ozarks Memorial Park Cemeteryon east Missouri 76, at 10 a.m. For moreinformation, call 417-546-3150 or 417-337-8387.
Spirit of 76July 4, 2011
Show your patriotism on IndependenceDay by wearing red, white and blue andjoin others for free ice cream and a freeflag. The celebration is from 9-10:30 a.m.at Branson Landing. For more information,call 417-337-8387.
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• FREE Deluxe Continental Breakfast • Groups Welcome • Creek Side Picnic Area • Deluxe Jacuzzi Suites
• 101 Beautiful Rooms Available • Double Queen Rooms • Handicap Rooms • Flat Level Parking • Smoking & Non-Smoking
Rooms • On Site Restaurant & Lounge • Large Outdoor Pool • Discounted Attraction Tickets & Packages Available • Centrally
Located Close To Table Rock Lake & All Area Attractions
LocatedJust
5 MinutesFrom LakeTaneycomo
& TableRock Dam.
VETERAN OWNED & OPERATED
CALENDAR CONT.
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National Day of Atomic RemembranceJuly 16, 2011
The 65th anniversary of the first atomic explosionand all veterans who were exposed to radiation in theline of military duty will be recognized during theNational Atomic Veterans Day of RemembranceObservance at the Andy Williams Moon River Grill at11:30 a.m. There will be a light lunch. Anyone wishingto attend is welcome. For more information, call 417-337-8387.
The End of WWIISept. 2, 2011
The Branson Veterans Task Force will remember thehistoric end of WWII at 11 a.m. at the VeteransMemorial Museum on 76 Country Boulevard. There will
be a short ceremony to commemorate the formal sur-render of Japan. This is the 65th anniversary of thesigning, which brought an end to WWII, the singlemost defining event of the 20th Century. On that date,the Japanese formally surrendered aboard theBattleship USS Missouri in Tokyo Harbor. For moreinformation, call 417-337-8387. All are invited toattend.
9/11 ‘Branson Remembers’Sept. 11, 2011
A ceremony will be held in observance of thetragedy that changed the world, at 8 a.m. at BransonLanding. Ground zero survivor of the 9/11 terroristattack on the Pentagon, Sgt. Maj. Tony Rose, will bethe guest speaker. At 7 a.m. firefighters, police officers
and first responders will be provided a free breakfastprior to the event. For more information, call 417-337-8387. All are invited to attend.
POW-MIA Day Silent MarchSept. 17, 2011
At 10 a.m., a silent march will be held starting fromthe former Whelchel Funeral Chapel parking lot at 310S. Commercial Street in Branson. It will proceed downCommercial to Main Street, taking Main Street down tothe town square at Branson Landing, where a shortcommemorative service will be held for those whohave not returned from WWII, Korea, Vietnam orDesert Storm.
Call 417-337-8387 for more information.
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CALENDAR CONT.
New organization looks to make a differenceBy Arlen Lipper, Director of Branson Veterans Events & Reunions
Welcome from Branson Veterans Events& Reunions. We are a new organization inBranson, where we honor our veterans everyday. We say “Welcome home. Thank you foryour service and we’re glad you’re here.”Branson Veterans Events & Reunions is hereto assist you in any way we can. If you’replanning a military reunion, we hope you willconsider Branson and we’re ready to assistyou by putting you in touch with a reunionplanner to help you plan that special event.
If you’re looking to plan your own militaryreunion, we’re available to assist you. We’realso available to help you with Color Guard,Bugler and Honor Guard for that special cer-emony.
We have several events throughout the yearhonoring our veterans. You may want to planto be here during one of those events. InNovember, we have the following mini-reunions honoring those who served, KoreanWar Veterans Mini Reunion, VietnamVeterans Mini Reunion, Persian Gulf War
Veterans Mini Reunion, honoring those whoserved during Desert Shield, Desert Storm,Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kosovo, as well asWomen Veterans Mini Reunion for thosewomen who served in the military. This is atime to meet other veterans who served andmaybe run into a lost old friend. This year, wehave the veterans sporting clays shoot andpossibly more.
Whatever the occasion for your visit toBranson, we’re available to assist you anyway we can. We want your stay in Branson to
be a wonderful and memo-rable experience.
Branson Veterans Events &Reunions is celebrating its one-year anniversary. The directorhas 35 years of military serviceand five years of veterans’mar-keting experience. You willwant to check out our websiteat bransonveteransevents.com.For questions, call 417-230-2278 or [email protected].
ArlenLipper
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The first OfficialBranson VeteransHomecoming WeekCommemorativeCollectors Button will beavailable for Branson’shomecoming week this year.There will be a limited supply.
The 2012 Branson VeteransHomecoming WeekCommemorative Collectors Buttonwill be unveiled during A VeteransHomecoming 2011. A portion of theproceeds from each button will ben-efit the Wounded Warrior Project.
COLLECTORSBUTTONTO DEBUT
For more information, call 417-230-2278 ore-mail [email protected].
Members of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter913 are hoping people in the community can help them helpothers.
“Our chapter is wanting donated medical supplies —walkers, risers, wheelchairs — anything we get, we’ll giveout to veterans and their families,” said John Porter, of thechapter. “We’ve got veterans all around this area in need ofthese supplies and don’t qualify for (assistance) and theydon’t have the money.”
Porter said the group is looking for everything from walk-ers to canes, wheelchairs, stool risers, even hospital beds.
He said these supplies can be very expensive to purchaseand oftentimes may not be used much. He is hoping anyone
who has any medical equipment they are not in need of any-more, could donate so it could be made useful again.
“We want to help other veterans,” Porter said. “We wantto be able to help the ones who aren’t able to buy these sup-plies on their own.”
If someone is in need, the equipment could even go to aperson who isn’t a veteran. This is a new program of theVietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913.
By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
Vietnam veterans seekhelp with new program
Anyone who would like to donate tothe program may call 417-230-2278
or 417-334-0733.
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MILITARY REUNIONS CONT.
4TH INFANTRY DIVISION NATIONALREUNION, July 4-10, Radisson Hotel,[email protected]
591st ENGINEER COMPANY, July 10-14, GrandPlaza Hotel, [email protected]
IVY DRAGOONS 7TH BN, July 28-31, 2011,Branson, [email protected]
20TH ENG BDE VIETNAM VET, July 29-31,Branson, [email protected]
USS WHITESIDE AKA 90, Aug. 11-14, Branson, [email protected]
547th ENGINEER BATTALION, Aug. 11-14, Lodgeof the Ozarks, [email protected]
USS BEATTY, Aug. 23-28, Radisson Hotel,[email protected]
USS TRUMPETFISH SS-425, Aug. 23-29, Branson,[email protected]
MADDOX DEST DD731, DD622, DD168, Aug. 25-28, Branson, [email protected]
USS SPINAX SS/SSR-489, Aug. 29-Sept. 2, Branson,[email protected]
USS WASHTENAW COUNTY LST 1166, Aug. 31-Sept. 4, Branson, [email protected]
USS L.Y. SPEAR, Aug. 31-Sept. 4, Grand Plaza Hotel,[email protected]
USS HELENA, Sept. 2-6, Lodge of the Ozarks,
[email protected] BELLE GROVE, Sept. 4-11, Lodge of the
Ozarks, [email protected] ELDORADO, Sept. 6-10, Grand Plaza Hotel,
[email protected] BN 4TH MARINE (ALL ERAS), Sept. 7-11,
Branson, [email protected] HOLLAND, Sept. 7-11, Grand Plaza Hotel,
[email protected] CARTER HALL and USS LINDENWALD,
Sept. 7-11, Lodge of the Ozarks, [email protected]
USS RATON SS/SSR/AGSS-270, Sept. 7-11, Branson,[email protected]
VRC-50, Sept. 7-11, Lodge of the Ozarks,[email protected]
20TH AF (GUAM), Sept. 8-10, Branson,[email protected]
USS RUPERTUS, Sept. 8-11, Radisson Hotel,[email protected]
398th BOMB GROUP, Sept. 8-12, Radisson Hotel,[email protected]
10TH INF DIV 8TH CAV RGT, Sept. 9-11, Branson,[email protected]
246th FIELD ARTILLERY, Sept. 11-15, Lodge of theOzarks, [email protected]
USS PERKINS, Sept. 11-16, Lodge of the Ozarks,[email protected]
SPHINX ARL 24, Sept. 12-15, Branson, [email protected]
65th INFANTRY, Sept. 12-16, Grand Plaza Hotel,[email protected]
AUTOMATIC 8th, Sept. 13-16, Grand Plaza Hotel,[email protected]
ACURA AF 55, Sept. 14-18, Branson, [email protected]
3rd BATTALION, 4th MARINES, Sept. 14-18,Lodge of the Ozarks,[email protected]
USS O’BANNON, Sept. 14-18, Lodge of the Ozarks,[email protected]
USS WAKE ISLAND CVE-65, Sept. 15-18, CarriageHouse Inn, [email protected]
USS SIMON LAKE, Sept. 18-21, Lodge of theOzarks, [email protected]
USS RATHBURNE, Sept. 19-22, Lodge of the Ozarks,[email protected]
USS SALISBURY SOUND AV13, Sept. 18-22, GrandPlaza Hotel, [email protected]
ABNAKI ATF 96, Sept. 21-24, Branson,[email protected]
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Stars and specialguests of the Armed
Forces Day Celebrationin Branson at 2 p.m.May 21 at Tri-LakesCenter include Gen.
Steve Danner, adjutantgeneral of the Missouri
National Guard; Lt.Col. Regina Kilmer,
who will sing theNational Anthem; and
performers The LennonSisters; Dave Hamner;
Jim Barber; John andAmbrus Presley; The
Cleverlys; YakovSmirnoff; and Todd
Oliver and Irving.
From the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce
Armed Forces Day lineup set
THE LENNON SISTERS YAKOV SMIRNOFF
TODDOLIVER
ANDIRVING
DAVEHAMNER
JIMBARBER
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Tree grove to be dedicated in honor of 51 veteransBy Chelsea Kliethermes, College of the Ozarks
College of the Ozarkswill hold a formal dedicationfor its Veterans Grove, anewly planted tree grove, inhonor of the 51 veterans whohave accompanied C of Ostudents on trips to visit his-toric WWII sites. The dedica-tion will take place from 2-2:30 p.m. April 7 on theAlumni Center Lawn.
Thirty-one of the 51 veter-ans and two widows of veter-ans, along with their fami-lies, will attend the dedica-tion. There, veterans willreunite with students whoaccompanied them duringtheir trips to England,France, Germany, Belgium,
Italy, Tunisia, TheNetherlands, Okinawa andIwo Jima.
Each veteran is honoredwith the planting of a SugarMaple, which is aligned withothers to create the sameunique pattern of the marblecrosses at the Americancemeteries in Europe. Nextto each Sugar Maple is abronze marker with a veter-an’s name. The CollegeHistorians student organiza-tion assisted with the plant-ing and will help with main-tenance of Veterans Grove.
For further information,contact The Keeter Centerfor Character Educationoffice at 417-690-2242.
COLLEGE OFTHE OZARKSSTUDENTSBen Wilsonand EdenDoss walk withveteran BusterSimmonsthrough theAmericancemetery atColleville-Sur-Mer.
Courtesy of College of the Ozarks
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MILITARY REUNIONS CONT.
VP-48 PATROL SQUADRON, Sept. 21-25, Holiday Inn,Norfolk, Va., [email protected]
RAF KIRKNEWTON REUNION 6952NDSECURITY GROUP, SCOTLAND, Sept. 21-25, Box CarWillie Inn, [email protected]
USS MULLANY, Sept. 21-25, Holiday Inn, Norfolk, Va.,[email protected]
303rd REFUELING, Sept. 21-25, Lodge of the Ozarks,[email protected]
USS MCKEAN, Sept. 22-26, Radisson Hotel,[email protected]
USS CASCADE, Sept. 25-30, Lodge of the Ozarks,[email protected]
516 ENG CO (PB), Sept. 26-28, Branson, [email protected]
516 ENG (HANAU, GERMANY), Sept. 26-29, Branson,[email protected]
25TH FIELD ARTILLERY, 10TH INFANTRY, Sept.26-29, Radisson Hotel, [email protected]
304th SIGNAL OPERATIONS, Sept. 27-30, GrandPlaza Hotel, [email protected]
COAST GUARD AIR STATION CHICAGO, Sept. 28-Oct. 1, Cobblestone Inn, [email protected]
H J ELLISON DD 864, Sept. 28-Oct. 2, Branson,[email protected]
7TH INF DIV ASSN., Sept. 29-Oct. 2, Branson, treasur-
[email protected] – 111, Sept. 29-Oct. 2, Radisson Hotel,
[email protected] AIR DEPOT, Sept. 29-Oct. 2, Radisson Hotel,
[email protected] TRANSPORTATION, Sept. 29-Oct. 2, Radisson
Hotel, [email protected] TRAINING 6906, Oct. 2-6, Lodge of the Ozarks,
[email protected] ALUMNI, Oct. 3-6, Grand Plaza Hotel,
[email protected] SILVERSTEIN, Oct. 3-7, Radisson Hotel,
[email protected] A, C & W, Oct. 4-9, Lodge of the Ozarks,
[email protected] Training Class 6906, Oct. 2-6, Lodge of the Ozarks,
[email protected] TACT ELEC WARFARE SQDN., Oct. 4-6,
Branson, [email protected] ALL HANDS ALUMNI, Oct. 4-7, Clarion Hotel,
[email protected] BUMPER, Oct. 5-9, Barrington Hotel, pamb@bran-
sonmilitaryreunions.comUSS W.S. SIMS, Oct. 5-9, Lodge of the Ozarks,
[email protected] MARINES, Oct. 5-9, Lodge of the Ozarks,
[email protected] COUNTY LST-1157, Oct. 6-8, Branson, clo-
[email protected] HOEL, Oct. 7-10, Crowne Plaza, Jacksonville, Fla.,
[email protected] MONSSEN DD798, Oct. 9-13, Grand Plaza Hotel,
[email protected] POLK COUNTY, Oct. 10-13, Lodge of the Ozarks,
[email protected] ETHAN ALLEN, Oct. 15-18, Lodge of the Ozarks,
[email protected] WALKE, Oct. 16-21, Branson Towers, pamb@bran-
sonmilitaryreunions.com79TH ENG CONST BN (KOREA & GERMANY),
Oct. 19-22, Branson, [email protected] RESCUE ASSOCIATION, Oct. 19-23, Lodge of the
Ozarks, [email protected] ENGINEERS BATTALION, Oct. 20-23, Radisson
Hotel, [email protected] BATTALION, 84th ARTILLERY, Oct. 23-26,
Mainstay Suites, Pigeon Forge, Tenn., [email protected]
92nd AFA BATTALION, Oct, 23-26, Grand Plaza Hotel,[email protected]
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$5 OFF FORVETERANS& SPOUSESMention This Special Before Purchase.Not valid with other offers, non-transferable for cash.
$5 OFF FORVETERANS& SPOUSESMention This Special Before Purchase.Not valid with other offers, non-transferable for cash.
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Mothers and wives of veterans werehonored in November at the Blue Star/GoldStar Mothers and Wives Breakfast Programat Golden Corral.
Ozark Mountain Blue Star Mothers chap-ter president Fran Davis, along with firstvice president Paula Shields and the othermembers, presented plaques bearing poemsto all Blue and Gold Star women in atten-dance.
The Blue Star represents the wives andmothers of servicemembers in the ArmedForces during any period of war or hostili-ties in which the United States may beengaged for the duration of such hostilities.
The Gold Star represents the wives andmothers those killed in action.
Original 1947 WWII Gold Star lapel pins,found on eBay, were presented to the GoldStar Wives and Mothers and angel pins were
presented to Blue Star Wives and Mothers. Nancy Hecker and Julie Finegold were
speakers for the event. Finegold is the creator of the Lost Heroes
Art Quilt. The quilt represents “lost heroesin Iraq and Afghanistan.”
Hecker is a Gold Star Mother, whose son,Army Maj. William F. Hecker III, representsMissouri on the quilt. She came up with the
idea of the companion book for the quilt. The Lost Heroes Art Quilt Keepsake
Book is available for purchase at $34.95plus shipping. According to the quilt web-site, 100 percent of the proceeds after print-
ing costs benefit Snowball Express, anorganization which supports the children ofthe fallen.
The quilt can be seen via the Internet atheart2hand4art.com.
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bransonlakesidervpark.combransonlakesidervpark.comEmail: [email protected]
BEST LOCATION IN BRANSON!
417.334.2915417.334.2915
1-888-334-7858 Toll FreeOr 417-334-5544 Local
3524 Keeter Street
1-888-336-3212 Toll FreeOr 417-336-5151 Local3027-A West State Hwy. 76
1-800-351-4644 Toll FreeOr 417-335-4500 Local
220 Wildwood Drive
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Blue Star/Gold Star Mothers to unite once againBy Lisa Soto of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
THIS YEAR’SEVENT
Blue Star/Gold Star Mothers & WivesBreakfast & Program
• Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2011• 8-10:30 a.m.• Call 417-337-8387• Free admission• bransonveterans.com
NANCYHECKER, right,speaks to agroup of Blueand Gold StarMothers aboutJulie Finegold’s,center, LostHeroes Art Quiltat a breakfastprogram inNovember.
Lisa Soto | Branson Tri-Lakes News
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Nestled among restaurants, theaters andattractions on 76 Country Boulevard is amuseum some have called one of the“greatest tributes ever completed to honorour country’s veterans.”
The Veterans Memorial Museum was thevision of Fred Hoppe Jr. He was inspired bythe stories he heard from his father, FredHoppe, and the men who fought alongsidehis father in WWII.
Fred Hoppe Jr. designed, funded andbuilt the 18,000-square-foot museum, aswell as wrote the scripts for the more than2,000 military artifacts he donated for usein the museum.
Exhibits in the museum cover WWI,WWII, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulfand all other recent conflicts.
The hallmark of the museum, accordingto director June Tillis, is the world’s largestbronze memorial sculpture — 50 soldiersstorming the beach. Hoppe, who is an inter-nationally known sculptor, created thebronze memorial while building the muse-um. The sculpture is more than 70-feet longand weighs 15 tons. It features 50 life-sizedsoldiers modeled after a veterans from eachstate storming a beach. Fred Hoppe Sr. isthe first soldier in line.
Throughout the museum, the names ofmore than 500,000 soldiers killed in actionline walls.
To welcome museum visitors, a full-sized WWII P-51 Mustang Fighter plane islocated along 76.
The museum opened in October 2000and an official grand opening ceremonywas held 10 years ago on Veterans Day.
In the decade since the museum firstopened, millions of people have walkedthrough the doors.
Tillis said she hopes veterans who visitthe museum feel the gratitude.
“I feel this is a ministry to veterans,” shesaid. “I hope they feel honored.”
And, for the soldiers who did not return,Tillis hopes the museum provides the fami-ly a sense of peace.
“We hope it gives some healing to thefamily members of the men whose namesare on the wall,” she said.
Veterans Memorial Museum is open 9a.m.-5 p.m.
In 2010, the museum served as one oftwo registry sites during VeteransHomecoming in November.
Branson museum honors veteransBy Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
THE HALLMARK OF BRANSON VETERANS MEMORIAL MUSEUM, the bronze statue of 50 men storming a beach, depicts 50real-life soldiers, one from each state. The father of Fred Hoppe Jr., who sculpted the piece and founded the museum, is depicted inthe first soldier. The bronze sculpture is 70-feet long and weighs 15 tons.
VETERANSMEMORIALMUSEUM islocated on 76CountryBoulevard inBranson.
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
The Branson Bugle ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 19
HOMETEAM REALTYView ALL The Branson/Tri-Lakes Area Listings At
www.BransonHomesAndLand.com [email protected] 2277 Hwy. 265, Branson, MO 65616
417-339-2100 Direct: 417-338-4500
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3BR/3.5BA 3,079sqft.Low maintenance Living Custom designed &
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CALENDAR CONT.
Veterans HomecomingNov. 5-11, 2011
America’s Largest Veterans Day celebration, this seven-daytribute honors the veterans who have served as the stewardsof freedom. For more information, call 417-337-8387.
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance DayDec. 7, 2011
A special ceremony will commemorate “the day that willlive in infamy” beginning at noon in front of the water and fireshow area at Branson Landing. The ceremony is to honorthose who were lost at Pearl Harbor and will end with awreath-laying ceremony in Lake Taneycomo. This is a freeevent and the public is welcome. Tom Goldsworthy is thechairperson for this event. For more information, call 417-337-8387.
POW/MIA Service of RemembranceNov. 8, 2011
A POW/MIA Service of Remembrance will be held at 8 a.m.at the Welk Theatre. Call 417-336-4232 for more information.
15th Annual Military Gala & BanquetNov. 9, 2011
The 15th Annual Military Gala & Banquet, Saluting Strategic
Air Command, will take place during Veterans Homecomingat Chateau on the Lake. Call 866-481-GALA for more informa-tion.
‘Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans’March 29-April 1, 2012
A new event called “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans”will take place in Branson. March 30 will be “Welcome HomeVietnam Veterans Day.”
It was on March 30, 1973, that all remaining U.S. troopswere withdrawn from Vietnam under the terms of the Treatyof Paris. More than 58,000 members of the U.S. Armed Forceslost their lives and more than 300,000 were wounded inVietnam.
Last year, U.S. Sen. Richard Burr, of North Carolina, intro-duced a resolution, which was passed by the U.S. Senate,naming March 30 as “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day”to honor members of the Armed Services who served inVietnam.
Organizer Arlen Lipper at Branson Veterans Events &Reunions plans registration on March 29, a ceremony recog-nizing veterans, a vendors’ village and other events.
Contact Lipper at 417-230-2278,[email protected] or visitBransonVeteransEvents.com.
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From October 2007 to January 2009, Dr. ToddBaker served in the 86th Combat Support Hospital inBaghdad.
He was chief of what is commonly known as“Baghdad ER.”
“We were in the middle of the international zone, orgreen zone,” said Baker, who today servesas co-medical director of Skaggs RegionalMedical Center’s emergency department.
“Well over 50 percent of trauma seen inIraq came through us.”
During his 15 months, he saw every-thing from battle injuries to heart attacks.
His patients ranged from U.S. soldiersand private contractors, to even Iraqi mil-itary and civilians injured in battle.
When Baker and his team first arrived in Baghdad,they only had a matter of days before they were to takeover the emergency department and got a smallglimpse at how their predecessors worked.
“The very first patient we saw when we first gotthere was a 19-year-old soldier who had both her armsblown off,” Baker said. “They worked through thattrauma in 15 minutes. From the beginning, the injuriesand the injury patterns were far beyond what I’d everseen.”
During his time in Baghdad, Baker and his team ofthree emergency physicians, nine nurses and 16medics treated thousands of critically wounded people.
“According to our commanders, our hospital tookmore direct hits from rocket and mortar fire than anycombat support hospital since the Vietnam War,”Baker wrote on his website. “Despite wave after waveof attack, our team never faltered and stood ready tocare for our wounded at any time.”
Each day, Baker would journal his experiences andbefore he ever left for the states, he knew he would
write a book.“I want to tell the
story of the wounded,”he said. “Our soldiersdon’t die and get leftbehind. I learned thatthe first week. I wantto tell the families ofthose soldiers that diedhow hard their battlebuddies worked to getthem home alive and Iwant to tell them howhard we worked. It hasnothing to do with me.It is the system we fellinto.”
It has taken Bakermonths to sort through
his journal, putting his experience into a book. “My biggest fear throughout this has been, a widow,
mother, child would read this and it would reopen oldwounds,” he said.
When writing about patients, he tried to keep every-thing very vague.
On Baker’s website, Baghdader.com, the doctorposted an excerpt from his book, “Baghdad ER.”
Within no time, Baker was contacted, first by the menwho served alongside the soldier, and then by theman’s wife, who thanked him for the story.
“It has helped bring healing. That is as good as feel-ing as I could ask for.”
Baker’s book is now on sale at baghdader.com.Baker said 10 percent of proceeds from book sales
will go to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Army ER chief tells ‘story of the wounded’By Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
DR. TODD BAKER, co-medical director of Skaggs Regional Medical Center’s emergency department, checks apatient’s heartbeat at Skaggs. Baker, who spent 15 months in Baghdad, wrote a book about his experience.
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
ToddBaker
The Branson Bugle ExploreBranson.com/veterans • Page 21
Three years ago, Marlyce Stockinger decided itwas time Purple Heart recipients were honored.
“It was something I knew we should do,” she said. It started as a two-day event that year and last
year, Stockinger expanded it to three days. This year,the Hand in Hand — Branson Honors Purple HeartRecipients is set for April 28-30. Registration runsfrom 8 a.m.-noon April 28 at Factory MerchantsMall, where armbands will be given out to those par-ticipating. Registration is free. At 2 p.m. that day, afree opening ceremonies show will be held at theHamner Barber Theater on Shepherd of the HillsExpressway.
Those in attendance will hear a presentationregarding benefits for veterans, focusing on womenveterans families. Disabled veterans are welcome toattend. Opening ceremonies are presented by theNational Order of the Purple Heart Service Officersand will give people a chance to ask questions and
get answers. Stockinger said before she ever held thefirst Hand in Hand, she met with several PurpleHeart recipients and asked them, if she did this whatdid they want. She said the all asked for somethingwith “substance.”
“Every event we always have guest speakers whospeak about issues on Purple Heart,” Stockingersaid.
On April 29, a free show is planned at the HamnerBarber Theater for 10 a.m. and a free fishing tourna-ment follows at 1:30 p.m. on Lake Taneycomowhere the use of pontoon boats have been donatedand professional anglers will be on hand. A fish frywill follow at 6 p.m. at Taney County Airport onBlue Sky Lane in Hollister.
The dinner is free to Purple Heart recipients and$10 for family members and the general public.
The evening includes dinner and entertainment.
Event honors Purple Heart recipientsBy Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News
MARLYCE STOCKINGER is organizer of the Purple Heartevent in April.
Mindy Honey | Branson Tri-Lakes News
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AVENUE OF FREEDOMHonor a veteran, police officer, firefighter or a first
responder with a flag on Branson’s Avenue of Freedom(Gretna Rd from Hwy. 248 to the bridge at Roark
Valley Rd.) by donating $50 in that individual’s name.
The flag (made in the USA - 3’x5’ made of nylon to withstand the weather) will be imprinted with the
individual’s information and fly along the Avenue ofFreedom for 60 days. Upon retirement of the flag, it willbe shipped to you with a certificate of documentation.
The individual’s name will also be placed on the Avenueof Freedom Hall of Honor page on the Branson VeteransTask Force website. The Branson Veterans Task Forcealong with donations from individuals and businesses
maintain the poles and 92 flags.
Name to be on the flag:For Veterans: Rank:Branch of Service - Please check one:
Army Navy Marines Air Force US Coast Guard Merchant Marines
War Served: WWI WWII Korea VietnamGrenada Panama Desert Storm Iraqi FreedomKosovo Afghanistan Peace Time POW/MIA
For Police Officers, Firefighters and First Responders:Police Officer Firefighters First RespondersCity ST Zip:
Flag and certificate to be sent to:Name:Address:City: ST Zip:Phone number:
Branson Veterans Task ForcePO Box 128
Branson, Missouri 65615
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Gatherings Plus specializes in military reunionsBy Pam Brown of Gatherings Plus
Gatherings Plus is the No. 1 military reunion plan-
ning service in Branson. Planners and attendees oftensay their Branson reunion planned by Gatherings Pluswas the best they’ve experienced.
We handle everything from blocking hotel rooms,scheduling meals, show ticketing, transportation to
group activities, memorial service and hospitality roomset up and maintenance. Welcome packets are providedto each attendee upon check-in with customized namebadges, coupons from area malls, an area map and updat-ed itineraries. Since the main part of a military reunionis the hospitality room, we make sure that room is largeenough for your group. We also have a personal hostess
with each group at all times. Because of our service, theplanner can relax and also enjoy the reunion activities.
Your successful gatherings begin and end withGatherings Plus.
Please visit our website atbransonmilitaryreunions.com and let us give you a freequote for your next reunion.
USS LAKE CHAMPLAIN, Oct. 27-30, Radisson Hotel, [email protected]
USS NEWMAN K. PERRY, Oct. 27-30, Grand Plaza Hotel, [email protected]
USS ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Nov. 3-6,Barrington Hotel, [email protected]
925TH ENG AVN GRP., Nov. 7-11,
Branson, [email protected] SEA POACHER, Nov. 8-12,
Grand Plaza Hotel, [email protected]
ULIUS A FURER DEG/FFG 6, Nov.10-13, Branson, [email protected]
PEDEN BARRACKS, WERTHEIM,GERMANY, Nov. 11-13, Ozark RegalHotel, [email protected]
MILITARY REUNIONS CONT. PURPLE HEART CONT.On April 30, a Purple Heart Motorcycle Run,
open to all bikers, Purple Heart recipients andveterans, will gather at Walmart Supercenter inOzark at 1 p.m. then travel to Branson, wherethey will arrive in time for the closing ceremo-ny at 3 p.m. at Hamner Barber Theater. Lastyear’s three-day event drew about 80 PurpleHeart recipients. Stockinger expects more thisyear, but she said it is not about the numbers.
“The event is a success because it reachesthem and it changes their life. It is about healingand having fun,” she said.
She said what makes this event different thanthe fall Veterans Homecoming is the fact thateverything is free for registered Purple Heartrecipients. Visit veterans.branson.com/2011-hand-in-hand-branson-honors-purple-heart-recipients/.
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