Patriotic films draw appreciative crowds at C of

During Branson’s Veterans Homecoming Week again this year, the College of the Ozarks was a gracious host to several patriotic and educational events. In keeping with the College’s key values, the Patriotic Pillar of a C of O education aims to “encourage an understanding of American heritage, civic responsibilities, love of country and willingness to defend it.” 

Leading up to and during Veterans Week, one way the College reaffirmed those values was by hosting the Fall Patriotic Film Festival, featuring three films based on content in the “Vietnam 101” course; stories from Dr. Jerry C. Davis’s book by that title; and educational tours in which students travel to conflict sites accompanied by veterans who served there. 

The films featured veterans Col. John Clark, Capt. John Sorensen, and Sgt. Major Eddie Neas, with the veterans themselves present at some of the showings to answer questions and sign books. The screenings were well-attended by students, area residents, and local and visiting veterans. 

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. 

All three films are excellent examples of the power of story vs. simply reading news and facts. “This really puts things in perspective,” said one student interviewed in a film, referring to Col. Clark’s descriptions of his experience as a POW in the infamous “Hanoi Hilton.”  “You don’t know the stories a veteran has until you talk to them.” 

For other students and community members in attendance, the films helped lay groundwork for better conversations with veteran family members, and helped instill a sense of duty. “Those of us who know the stories must share them,” summarized one educational tour participant about the time she spent with the veterans. 

Plans are currently in development as to making these valuable films available for viewing by those who were not able to attend the festival. To stay up to date on this, to learn about future patriotic events, and to learn more about the Pillars of a College of the Ozarks education, visit www.cofo.edu.