The event, organized in partnership with the P.O.W. Network, took place on Monday, with Walmart’s management team joining on stage to present the donation before the start of the annual tribute show.

Several state and local elected officials were in attendance, participating in the program to recognize these special men and women. 

On Tuesday, November 11, a Quilt of Valor presentation took place in the Keeter Center, honoring Myron Johnson and Pete Jennen.

Through the years, veterans have waited in long lines, often braving the elements, to enjoy a delicious, complimentary meal at Golden Corral.

Spirits were high and patriotism was at its peak as adults and children, many waving flags or donning red, white and blue clothing, cheered as the military vehicles, cars carrying dignitaries, floats and marching bands passed by.

This year’s special emphasis was “Saluting the USS Pueblo Crew.” Captured off the North Korean shore during the Vietnam War, the crew was held captive for 11 months, tortured and starved, until their eventual release just prior to Christmas 1968.

Convoy of Honor and mural project organizer Mona Miller also keeps busy with other patriotic and appreciation projects around the area, including the annual Heroes Feed.

Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts joined together for a Flag Retirement Ceremony in the parking lot of Branson's United Methodist Church, located on 76 Country Boulevard.

Greenwood, a musical legend, American patriot and champion of our nation's veterans performed at the Mickey Gilley Grand Shanghai Theater on Sunday to an excited audience.

Many community members, friends and former employees met at the Day Room of Veterans Village to share their memories of Steve Weyher, a veteran, Branson businessman and community leader who passed away in June.

Upon arriving at Cedar Ridge, this 10-year U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and his wife of 61 years, herself a U.S. Navy Veteran, were greeted by their great-grandson, Cruze Westfall, and taken to the library to join other veterans and their families for a reception.

Students interviewed in the films, as well as some attending or serving as hosts at performances, affirmed the importance of the Vietnam study, saying it helped them realize that in many ways, Vietnam was a turning point in how our nation approached conflict and support for our military, in contrast with the unwavering patriotism of the Greatest Generation. 

In his remarks, Lowe shared the story of a USAF pilot, Neal Black, whose Husky helicopter was downed during a rescue mission, and Black’s subsequent imprisonment, used by the enemy for propaganda before his eventual release.

One joked about being sent to German language school due to his family background and previous knowledge of German, and then ending up in Korea; another described his time stationed in Alaska as “worse than falling off the deck into icy water.”

Over the years, McTaggart’s personal experiences have combined with cultural changes he has witnessed to shape his outlook on life, including his faith.

The Flagstore is veteran owned and operated, and the Cartwright family is well known for their patriotism and love of country, as well as their outstanding customer service.

The plaque presentation for volunteer Bruce Sisk, himself a veteran, was arranged as a surprise by Garden director Jana Evans and other volunteers with the help of Sisk’s wife, Sharon. Sisk and other family members had arranged for a plaque for an uncle Ralph King, while unbeknownst to Bruce, those family and Garden volunteers decided he deserved one also! 

The informational panels and sobering photos in the exhibit cause viewers to think and realize that even though the Jewish people say, “Never Again,” it is indeed happening at this time.

The Gold Star Monument is a tribute to the families of courageous individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom.

The 2025 opening celebration of Veterans Homecoming Week will be held on November 5 at 10 a.m. on the campus of College of the Ozark’s Patriots Park.