THESE SEATS RESERVED
	Veterans are always special guests in this growing tourist town.
WELCOME to VetAways! In this new feature, we present getaways that are specifically tailored to veterans, hence the name. We'll explore the exciting, the entertaining and the enlightening. We'll introduce you to new destinations or find a new wrinkle that makes a familiar one that much more enticing. So enjoy - and if you choose to "discover" these Vet Aways for yourself, please write and tell us how it went.   On any given day, tourists transform tiny Branson, Missouri, permanent population 4,200, into a bustling metropolis of 50,000. Helping create this welcomed influx is Branson Veterans Task Force Inc. What this organization has done is nothing short of creating a Mecca for veterans. Their slogan, "Honoring America's veterans every day," is more an entire town's promise than a promotional ploy. "Every theater in Branson, the live music capital of the world, is a sponsor of the Veterans Task Force," boasts co-chairman Debbie Ikerd.   Such involvement means that on days like Memorial Day, Flag Day, POW/MIA Day, and of course Nov. 11, literally every theater offers discounted rates for veterans - and the majority aren't small discounts, either. Veterans and their families can realize savings up to 50 percent , free admissions and complimentary commemorative pins. One hotel offers the oldest veteran a free night's stay.   Saving a few dollars here and there is just part of the experience, though. "We do offer discounts," Ikerd. "But the focus of the project is a daily community commitment to veterans." There is an aversion to commercializing the effort, a resistance to view veterans simply as a market niche. The sincerity could be witnessed as the "troop train," filled to capacity with vacationers, pulled into the station last Veterans Day. The passengers were greeted with a homecoming like no other. The platform is standing room only with new arrivals squeezing past wavering crowds that include some of the headline entertainers, banners, streamers and a band.   Strolling along the sidewalks, guests noticed every marquee carried a salute to veterans. Each shopkeeper welcomes visitors in a way that says "Thanks for what you've done," as opposed to "I wonder how much merchandise can be pawned off on them." It's an attitude that has been nurtured over decades.   At last November's seven-day extravaganza, one of the largest in the country, the Veterans Day parade was led by a joint American Legion - VFW color guard and featured marching bands, Branson entertainers, military vehicles, "Ride the Ducks" amphibious vehicles and B-2 stealth bombers overhead. Past VIPs have included BoxCar Willie, Mel Tillis, Past National Commander Joseph J. Frank, members of the Tuskegee Airmen, POWs and Medal of Honor recipients.   It was also the fifth year Tony Orlando opened his Yellow Ribbon Theatre and played a free concert. During Orlando's show, as well as others, veterans in the audience might be asked to stand and be recognized. Other performers will stroll the crowd and chat with Legionnaires. How do they spot them? They simply scan the crowd for the distinctive Legion caps.   So don't be bashful about donning your blue caps. As one writer described Branson: "This is American Legion country - where folks are not embarrassed to love God, country and family." Not that you should hesitate to wear your cap anywhere. It's just that in Branson, your headgear could earn you some time in the spotlight with the likes of Tony Orlando.   For a calendar of events, call or write: Branson Veterans Task Force, P.O. Box 128, Branson, MO 65615; (417) 337-8387.

for more information please call:
417-337-8387
Branson Veterans Task Force
PO Box 128, Branson MO 65615
Fax: 417-334-7894 

NEW! Email: bvtf1@suddenlinkmail.com