Veterans of the Ozarks bring Wreaths Across America to Kimberling City

On December 13, 2025, members and friends of the Veterans of the Ozarks braved freezing temperatures to bring Wreaths Across America to Kimberling City for the first time, honoring veterans whose graves are in the Joseph Philibert Cemetery. 

Thirty VOTO members mustered for the wreath-laying, placing 40 Wreaths Across America on graves of veterans. As each wreath was placed, the name of the veteran was spoken in honor and a penny was left on the headstone, marking an age-old military tradition of noting that a veteran’s grave had been visited by another veteran. 

Thanks to the following Veterans of the Ozarks members for their assistance in coordinating and carrying out the event:

Dave McAllister, President

Dale Washburn, Vice President

Lionel Cantu, Treasurer

John View, Chairman of the Board

Ron Rowden, Board Member

Phil Eilers, Board Member

Ron Hontz 

Sam Piche and family

Terry Gilbert

Joe Gimson

Stan Sharp

Paul Long 

Paula Flemming-Cantu 

Jerry O'Connell 

Jo Worden-O'Connell 

Ron Simmons

Steve Nichols 

Janet Nichols 

Mike Klein

Don Swanson

Bill Trotter

Jim Cummings

Richard Staley

Pete Sedat 

“The National and State Veterans’ Cemeteries deservedly get the lion’s share of Wreaths Across America Attention,” said VOTO President “Mac” McAllister. “However, we think it’s time for veterans interred in our local area cemeteries to be recognized equally as well.” 

The goal for 2026 is to expand to 70 wreaths being laid, which would cover all the veterans in the Joseph Philibert Cemetery, and in subsequent years, to expand the reach to the Nickerson Cemetery, just adjacent to the Philibert. 

Other area nonprofits, including 4Ozark Seniors, have expressed their support for the project as well. Anyone wishing to sponsor a wreath is invited to contact the Veterans of the Ozarks via their Facebook page or McAllister at 417-230-1283. Sponsorship for a wreath is $17, a great way to express the community’s ongoing thanks for the sacrifice and service of every veteran.