Branson Bank honors Veterans of the Quarter

A beautiful sunrise opened another pleasant fall day in the Ozarks on Friday, October 3, as community residents and leaders gathered at Branson Bank’s Hwy. 248 location to honor four local veterans for their service. 

At 7:30 a.m., Branson Bank CEO Bill Jones welcomed those in attendance and shared about the bank’s commitment to community and veterans. 

“Honoring area veterans is at the heart of who we are as a community bank,” said Jones. “Their service to country and community remind us of the true meaning of commitment, and we are honored to stand beside them—not just today, but every day.” 

Jones invited Phillip Pringle, retired First Lieutenant and Chaplain of the Missouri National Guard, to offer opening prayer. Jones then introduced the Branson High School Air Force JROTC, under direction of Major Gary Maki, to conduct the official flag raising, accompanied by “Reveille” played by Bob Smithers and followed by a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by Jason and Desta Pritchett. 

Friday’s program honored the four most recent Branson Bank Veterans of the Quarter, #57 through #60, sharing their stories and offering gratitude. 

• #57, Maurica Riker-Jones, introduced by Branson Bank VP/Marketing Officer Lyndi Carnelison; 

• #58, James Gilbert, introduced by VP/Finance & Risk Officer Jon Arnold; 

• #59, Ron Simmons, introduced by Core Systems Officer Brandy Wright; 

• #60, Edward Verrill, Jr., introduced by SVP/Community Lender Eric Simkins. 

Each veteran was presented with a custom framed copy of their photo and story. 

Additional speakers at the ceremony included Missouri State Rep. Brian Seitz, District 156, who shared his ongoing support of veterans in the community and commitment to supporting veterans’ issues in the state legislature. Referencing the recent speech by Secretary Pete Hegseth, Seitz thanked the honorees and other veterans present for setting standards of excellence that continue to inspire today’s troops. Dick Burkhalter of Branson Veterans of America 913, who was selected as Veteran of the Quarter #47 and now serves on the Branson Bank Veteran of the Quarter selection panel, then explained the nomination and selection process, while sharing his personal gratitude for area businesses who support veterans. 

CEO Jones wrapped up the ceremony by thanking not only the veterans, but also the family members who support them during and after their service. He also acknowledged the many ways in which veterans continue to serve each other and the community. Following the presentations, attendees enjoyed a time of fellowship with the honorees, along with muffins and delicious coffee from Vintage Paris. 

The Branson Bank Veteran of the Quarter program began in 2009 as a way to honor men and women who reside in Stone and Taney counties and have served in the U.S. military. Nomination forms are available at each bank location and online. Veterans are selected by a committee of past honorees. For more information about the program, or to nominate a veteran, visit www.bransonbank.com.