“Celebrate America” part of Spirit of 76 early morning event on 4th
Celebrate America will be part of the entertainment at Spirit of ’76 presents Why Freedom Rings – Independence Day along with John Wain of The John Wayne Story and speakers Larry Wilhite of Backstage Ministries and Gary Smalley of the Smalley Institute on Sunday, July 4 at 7:30 a.m. at Stockstill Park sponsored by the Branson Veterans Task Force.
“Celebrate America, an originally written, fully-staged theatrical spectacular which opened this year at Mansion America, is an entertaining ride through the legend and legacy of our great nation’s pursuit of freedom. I am pleased to have them as part of the entertainment for our tribute service to celebrate our freedom. I am especially honored to have John Wain, Larry Wilhite and Gary Smalley join us,” said Steve Weyher, who is the Task Force’s community liaison and creator of Spirit of ’76.
The morning will start with a free breakfast of biscuits and gravy served 6:45 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.. A 45-minute tribute service with recognition of veterans from different wars, all veterans and active military and music will follow. After the tribute each person attending will be treated to free ice cream, an American flag, a surprise gift from Celebrate America and a ride on the tethered POW/ MIA hot air balloon. The formal program at Stockstill Park will be over by 8:10 a.m. and the tethered rides will be offered as weather permits and may start as early at 6 a.m. Donations will be accepted to help with the cost of bringing the balloon to Branson.”
The POW/MIA Freedom Flight was launched in 1989. The all-black hot air balloon is emblazoned with three 30-feet-high POW/MIA logos. The purpose of the Freedom Flight is to administer and operate a hot air balloon and related equipment to educate the public about the POW/MIA issues of all Americans.
For more information contact: Branson Veterans Task Force Inc., 4460 N. Gretna Rd., Branson, MO 65616 or call 417-337-VETS.