A free tribute event held earlier this year for America’s heroes will return in 2025 with an impressive lineup.
Branson proudly hosted in May the Tribute to Valor Armed Forces Day STEAM-Liner Expo at the Branson Airport, a free event that celebrates American heroes and showcases STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) initiatives in aviation. Attendees had the unique opportunity to meet Gary Litrell, a retired Army command sergeant major who is one of only 62 living Medal of Honor recipients, and engage with Air Force Reserve Pilot Maj. Trevor Aldridge.
The event featured aircraft tours, hands-on robotics demonstrations by FIRST Robotics of Springfield, Missouri, and a vibrant celebration of service and education. We are thrilled to announce that Tribute to Valor will return in the spring of 2025, promising another inspiring celebration.
Branson ‘Wings of Pride’
The Blue Angels announced they will be flying through Branson, Missouri, next year on Aug. 30 and 31. It will be the first time the elite team of pilots from the Navy and Marine Corps will soar through our Missouri city at ‘The Branson Wings of Pride Airshow.’ The demonstration consists of six F/A-18 Super Hornets in the iconic blue and yellow Navy colors, flying at speeds approaching the speed of sound and performing maneuvers with wing tips as close as 18″ of separation. The show will also include Blue Angels’ support aircraft, the U.S. Marine Corps C-130 Hercules “Fat Albert.” Veteran pride is always here in Branson, but it has never been quite like this.
Introducing Rally Point Branson
Coming in the spring of 2025, Rally Point Branson is a new event designed to bridge the gap between different military support groups and generations. This initiative will bring together veterans, their families, and supporters to foster connections, share experiences, and strengthen the community. Stay tuned for more details as we prepare to launch this exciting event.
Veterans Homecoming Week in Branson
Branson proudly stands as one of the most veteran-friendly, patriotic cities in America. Our dedication to honoring those who served is evident yearround, but every November, we take it to another level with Veterans Homecoming Week — a special event filled with heartfelt celebrations for service members and their families.
This year’s Veterans Homecoming Week, from Nov. 5 to 11, promises to be an unforgettable tribute. Highlights include the Veterans Show at Clay Cooper Theatre, Veterans Village at the Ballparks of America, and the Vietnam Veterans Reunion at AmericInn by Wyndham Branson. We also honor the spouses of veterans with the Homefront Hero’s Salute and pay tribute to women veterans at the Women Veterans Rose Petal Ceremony.
On Nov. 9, the 15th Annual Walmart Tribute to the Veterans Show will bring together veterans and residents for a lively celebration. The week culminates on Nov. 11 with the Veterans Day Parade in Historic Downtown Branson, a vibrant expression of our collective gratitude and pride.
Join us in Branson this November as we honor our veterans with a week full of heartfelt events and celebrations. Together, let’s make Veterans Homecoming Week a memorable tribute to those who have served our country with bravery and dedication.