Cold War Veterans honored at Gala during Branson Veterans Week

From the opening show at the Mansion Theater on November 5 to the Tony Orlando Show on November 11, Branson honored our veterans. It was a week of celebration, new and old favorite activities, greeting old friends, meeting new people and sharing the joy of being American.

The WWII, Korean War, Vietnam, Gulf Wars, and Women Veterans reunions all exceeded expected attendance. Watch for more information and photos of each reunion in the next few days.

The POW Military Gala and the Marine Birthday Ball presented formal celebrations of honor. The Military Gala honored Cold War veterans. The Marine Ball celebrated the birthday of the US Marine Corps.

Branson Veterans Week honored our military and welcomed home our veterans

Lt.. Col. Oliver North highlighted several events. He returned for his second year as the keynote speaker at the Marine Birthday Ball. On Veterans Day, Silver Dollar City sponsored "Breakfast with Oliver North" at the Tri-Lakes Center. Later that day he was the featured speaker at a VIP luncheon at the Chateau on the Lake. From there he attended both the closing ceremonies and the Tony Orlando Show.

North spoke of his pride in today's military and his hope in the future of America. Long lines formed at each event as people waited for the opportunity to speak with him and get an autographed copy of his new book.

Tony Orlando speaks to veterans of all ages. He appeared at events throughout the week. His show was sold out well in advance. He paid tribute to veterans, individually and as a group. Check back for more information on Tony Orlando.

All over town and at all events, Individuals welcomed home our veterans, shook their hands and said thank you.

The Branson Veterans Week draws more veterans each year. It's a week of healing as well as celebration. Vietnam veterans, many of whom still suffer from emotional wounds, are stepping forward to offer support for those returning from the Gulf Wars. Each year events show veterans of all ages crossing generations and wars to forge bonds of fellowship.