By Mindy Honey - Branson Tri-Lakes News
BRANSON, Mo. -- In 1993, Tony Orlando offered his first free Veterans Day show at his Yellow Ribbon Music Theatre in Branson with 600 people in attendance. Orlando said that was the first free Veterans Day show in Branson. In 1994, Orlando brought Bob Hope to Branson and the area’s Veterans Day celebration gained national attention.
Fifteen years later, Branson’s celebration has become the largest gathering of veterans on Veterans Day and Orlando continues to offer his free show.
“Branson has become a beacon of light for the love of country and traditional values,” Orlando said. “Like every year, like the sun goes up and the sun goes down, we will do our show.”
Part of Orlando’s show always includes the Yellow Ribbon Medal of Freedom, which has gone to past recipients including Bob Hope, Ross Perot, Gerald Ford, John McCain and Oliver North.
“I’m proud of the people who have come here,” Orlando said.
Orlando said keeping the show free to veterans is important.
“It is money well spent because I really believe that showing our veterans our love is just a small part of what we can do to show our appreciation and respect for us,” he said. “I am proud of Branson and their 15 years of giving to veterans.”
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