Purple Heart Recipient Reunion gets underway with opening ceremony

Branson's Purple Heart Recipient Reunion, going on this week, is designed to show honor and appreciation to those heroes who have received the Purple Heart during their time of service. The Purple Heart is a military medal that is given to the man or woman (or family thereof) who is wounded or killed while serving in the United States military.

The Purple Heart Recipient Reunion, hosted by the Branson Veterans Task Force, got underway on Tuesday, with an opening ceremony at the Pepsi Legends Theater.

Said the Branson Veterans Task Force Chair Bob Smither in his opening remarks, "It is truly an honor for us to have our guests here for this special week. Their courage and sacrifice must always be remembered; it must be recognized."

The opening ceremony featured an introduction of the Purple Heart Recipients, who were escorted to their seats by local Jr. ROTC members as well as members of the Civil Air Patrol. The Forsyth High School Junior ROTC posted the colors, and those in attendance joined in the Pledge of Allegiance.  Following the National Anthem, the Purple Heart Recipients heard a brief message from Branson Mayor Larry Milton. 

Becky Jewsbury, past chair of the Branson Veterans Task Force, closed the ceremony by thanking those in attendance for their service and sacrifices.  

Said Jewsbury, "To everyone here today, thank you for joining us. Let us never forget that the freedoms we enjoy were secured by the courage and sacrifice of those we have honored today. The price of freedom is high and it is paid by heroes. May we live each day with gratitude and strive to be worthy of their sacrifice. Above all, may we continue to build a nation where their courage inspires hope, unity and an unwavering commitment to freedom."

The event was followed by a special show, performed by the vocal group SIX, which was enjoyed by all.