Branson remembers fallen heroes in special ceremony

For many, Memorial Day signifies the unofficial beginning of summer, marked with picnics, trips to the lake and fun with family and friends. But, for many, the meaning of the last Monday in May runs much deeper, as it is a day set aside to remember the many men and women who died while serving in the Armed Forces.

A Branson tradition each Memorial Day is a special ceremony, held at the Ozarks Memorial Park Cemetery.

This year's ceremony began with a welcome from Steve Campbell (U.S. Navy), President of Branson's Veterans of America 913. Campbell acknowledged special guests Brian Seitz (District 156 State Representative) and Larry Milton (Branson Mayor) and wife Lianne.  

Pastor Dave Hamner, star of Hamner's Unbelievable Variety Show, opened the event in prayer, and the Branson High School Air Force Jr. ROTC posted the colors. Campbell then led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.

A touching part of the Monday event was the Placement of the Wreaths Ceremony, with wreaths being placed in honor and remembrance of those who sacrificed their lives in America's wars.

Hank Molinengo, Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy Retired, served as the morning's keynote speaker. Molinengo, who was in the Pentagon during the 9/11 attacks on America, volunteers as a spokesperson for Wellness for Warriors, a program designed to support the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being of the military and first responders. Molinengo, who reminded those in the audience of the significance of Memorial Day, spoke of the importance of caring for our veterans, not only physically, but mentally, as well. Molinengo encouraged those in attendance to remember not only those who gave their lives in the line of duty, but also their families, for their tremendous loss.

Joy Penrod, representing BVA 913, presented a reading outlining the meaning of the 13 folds of the American flag while Alex Penrod (U.S. Navy) and Brandon Ticnor (U.S. Navy) demonstrated the folding of the flag.

Branson vocal group The Hughes Brothers, stars of The Hughes Music Show, again took the stage with a song of dedication entitled "I Believe," which was followed by a Traditional Rifle Volley, offered by the BVA913 Honor Guard.

Bob Smithers, Sergeant Major, U.S. Army Retired played Taps, and the BHS Air Force Jr. ROTC retired the colors.

Pastor offered a benediction to close the Memorial Day event.

Following the ceremony, State Representative Brian Seitz shared with the Branson Globe his thoughts on the significance of the morning event.

"We honor those that have given their lives in sacrifice for this nation," explained Representative Seitz. "I think it is wholly appropriate that here, in Branson, Missouri, that is at the forefront of our thoughts. Barbeques are great. Spending the day at the lake is great. But today we memorialize those who gave us our freedoms and allow us to be free."

Speaking of our community, which continues to hold the annual Memorial Day Ceremony, Seitz noted, "There is a spirit here in Branson that is a patriotic spirit, in a sense, that year after year, we do get together to celebrate, not only on Memorial Day, but Veterans Day. Our Veterans Day Parade is one of the greatest in the nation. Today we remember the fallen, but every day we celebrate those who made those sacrifices so that we might be free."