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.

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.”

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.

Lynn Behrends, a member of Branson Veterans of America 913, and Bob Howards, a member of Veterans of the Ozarks, each received the gift of a guitar from the singer, at a joint luncheon fellowship held at the Kimberling City Elks Lodge. 

In keeping with the College’s Patriotic Pillar, we hope the community leaves our campus with a deeper appreciation of American heritage, a stronger sense of civic responsibility and a renewed love of country.

Several dates still remain to attend one or more films, including opportunities on some dates to meet the featured veterans in person.

Charlie Company is a highly decorated unit that received the Presidential unit citation for their gallantry in combat in Vietnam from 1967-1970; many members are also Purple Heart recipients.

The week is packed with special shows, ceremonies, mini reunions and other events in celebration of Veterans Week.

In honor of Veterans Week, Arballo Entertainment will present two award-winning Vietnam War documentaries at the IMAX Theater in Branson on Saturday, November 8, and Sunday, November 9.