Veterans Memorial Branson

Top 5 Branson Activities as listed by the Travel Channel

2011-05-04T05:40:00.000-07:00

Along with the Travel Channel calling the Veterans Memorial Museum one of the top 5 Branson Activities in this video:

http://www.travelchannel.com/travelchannel/Video/top-5-branson-activities-11457

Here's what the Travel Channel also has to say about the Veterans Memorial Museum:

Located in the center of Branson amid the bright lights and flashy country singers is a somber reminder of the American lives lost in the name of freedom. The museum is both awe-inspiring and fascinating. You will be able to read letters sent home by WWII prisoners of war. You can view photographs taken in the heat of the battle and beautiful murals that depict heartrending scenes. Outside, you will be impressed with the giant sculpture of 50 soldiers running up a beach. This is one stop in Branson you will not want to miss.

http://www.travelchannel.com/Places_Trips/Destinations/North_America/United_States/Missouri/Branson/Attractions/Veterans_Memorial_Museum

http://www.travelchannel.com/Places_Trips/Destinations/North_America/United_States/Missouri/Branson/Attractions/Veterans_Memorial_Sculpture

We're open for Hot Winter Fun in Branson MO

2011-01-18T05:07:00.001-08:00

We're open for Hot Winter Fun in Branson MO - come visit us and check out all the great things to do in Branson:

Branson Veterans Memorial Museum honors Veterans and a father

2011-01-12T08:51:00.000-08:00

by Gary Groman for Branson Tourism Center

A shared passion, a fathers service, and a son’s love and respect serve as the basis for one of Branson’s most moving attractions, The Branson Veterans Memorial Museum (Museum). June Tillis, the director of the museum said that it was opened in the fall of 2000 by Fred Hoppe, Jr. of Nebraska to honor his father, a World War II Veteran and the Veterans the other wars of the 20th Century, World War I, Korea, Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf.

Tillis explains that the Museum contains over 2000 items, many of them collected by Hoppe and his father, Fred Hoppe, Sr. over a period of 30 years. Hoppe grew up going to military collector’s trade shows with his father, collecting military weapons, memorabilia and other personal items as well as hearing stories of World War II from many of the Veterans he met.

Tillis stresses that the unique personal aspect of the Museum is that it is about the individual soldier and not about the battles, strategy and politics of the war. It provides Branson visitors with a unique opportunity to see an up close and personal look of a little bit of what those who fought these wars went through on a personal basis through the uniforms, weapons and equipment they used; the letters they wrote; documents and pictures.

Although the Museum has over 2000 items divided into display halls for each of the wars of the 20th Century one of the major features of the Museum is the full sized bronze sculptures by Hoppe who is a noted sculpture of wild life and birds. Two of his sculptures are located outside of the museum, but the highlight has to be the 70 foot long World War II sculpture inside the museum.

The sculpture depicts 50 life sized soldiers storming a beach during World War II. The 50 figures represent all 50 states and has a plaque with the name of the Veteran and the state they represent. Tillis points out that although there were only 48 states during World War II that Hoppe wanted to honor Veterans from all states so he included the 50 figures.

In a tribute to his father, the first figure in the sculpture is his dad, Fred Hoppe, Sr. a decorated World War II Veteran. Hoppe worked ten hours a day to complete the sculpture in ten months so that it would be ready for the opening of the Museum. Tillis says it is her favorite exhibit in the museum because of its detail, scope, and what it represents. “It’s amazing,” she said.

The museum is set up in “rooms,” large exhibition halls, for each war. Each has the uniforms, weapons, and other documents and personal items such as letters, pictures and mementoes telling the personal story of those who fought in those wars. Another unique feature of the museum is that the World War II room has the names of the over 400,000 people who died in that war listed alphabetically on its walls. Particularly moving to this writer was the Flag folded on top of one of the few remaining World War II wooden boxes used to ship the bodies of those who had been killed home.

Tillis said that on average it takes about an hour and a half to go through the museum, but it is not uncommon to have people spend three or four hours going through. She points out that the appeal of the museum to children depends on their age and suggests that children ages six and above will have the best experience. The Branson Veterans Memorial Museum is open every day but Christmas from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during the winter and from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. during the peak periods.

Tammy Johnson, the Director of Operations for the Branson Tourism Center said, “The Branson Veterans Memorial Museum is a unique inspiring attraction in terms of its subject matter, scope and emphasis, not only in Branson, but anywhere and Hoppe’s sculptures are just spectacular.” For additional information or tickets for the Museum or any of Branson’s other shows and attractions or for lodging arrangements please contact the Branson Tourism Center (BTC), one of Branson’s largest and most respected vacation planning services. BTC can be reached by either calling their toll free number 1-800-785-1550 or through their website www.BransonTourismCenter.com.

Celebrating over 10 years of honoring Veterans

2011-01-02T15:58:00.000-08:00

by Linda Burligame for Shepherd of the Hills Gazette

"Honoring those who served," Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson honors veterans of WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War; all major battles and campaigns are recognized.

Veterans Homecoming Week in Branson, Nov. 5-11, is an especially good time to visit the Museum. There will be book signings all week; Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. Boy Scout Troop 2001 will do a flag retirement ceremony, an outdoor, free event. General Tommy Franks Traveling Museum will be there Nov. 6 & 7 and is free to the public. Also outside the Museum are two new sculptures by Hoppe, including a 12-man statue. The Veterans Memorial Museum is one of two Veterans Registry Locations. Veterans can also register at Factory Merchants Mall.

Old and young alike are intrigued by the thought-provoking collection at the Museum. I'm touched by the letters, posters, things showing the love and support of everyone back here at home. The Museum is an extraordinary and fascinating look at our nation's history, celebrating Veterans all year long!

Fred Hoppe, Jr., creator and owner of the Museum, is a sculptor whose work is known and respected worldwide. Outside the museum are two of his new pieces, including a 12-man statue. One of his most impressive works is inside the Museum, an amazing piece depicting 50 life-sized soldiers storming a beach. Each soldier is modeled from a real-life combat veteran, one from each of the 50 states. The piece is 70 feet long, the world's largest bronze memorial sculpture! The lead soldier is modeled on the late Fred Hoppe, Sr., one of the most decorated combat Veterans of World War II, a fact Hoppe did not know until shortly before his father's death. Hoppe created the museum because of his father, who told him, "I'm no hero; the real heroes never came home."

In the Museum Hoppe has assembled an amazing collection of more than 2000 pieces of sculpture, art, weapons, uniforms, medals, motorcycles — memorabilia including letters, photographs and posters. The walls of the WWII Hall are covered with the names of more than 400,000 men and women who died for our freedom in that war. There is a complete list of men and women killed in Korea, Vietnam and during Desert Storm and other conflicts of the 20th Century.

Veterans always get an admission discount. The Veterans Memorial Museum is on Hwy. 76 east of Dixie Stampede. You can't miss it— there is a World War II P-51 Mustang Fighter plane standing guard outside!

Celebrating a Nation of Service: The Veterans Museum in Branson Missouri

2010-12-07T06:12:00.000-08:00

By Paul Negron, a writer and contributor for Bluegreen's Travel Guide website, Colorful Places as well as an EzineArticles Expert

It came about, as many worthy projects do, as the result of stories a boy heard at his father’s knee. For young Fred Hoppe, his dad’s service in World War II was an inspiration as well as a great adventure story, and as he grew up, the idea of honoring veterans of his father’s generation never left him. Although Hoppe became a well-known sculptor rather than a war hero, the idea of a monument, a tribute, was always in focus. Finally in the last years of the last century, Fred Hoppe set about making his dream come true.

Turned down for grants or other funding, Hoppe decided to build a veteran’s museum—and, if he must, to do it himself, finding the relics, collecting the exhibit materials, interviewing and depicting veterans from all conflicts in the 20th century to make a museum that was complete, factual, comprehensive and awe-inspiring. His hard work resulted in the opening of the Veterans Museum of Branson, which opened in 2000 at 1250 West Highway 76 in Missouri’s tourist mecca.

For veterans of America’s Armed Services who lived through these wars, and just as important for those who didn’t, the Veterans Museum of Branson provides a kind-of “you are there” perspective on World War I, World War II, the Korean Conflict, the Viet Nam War, and Operation Desert Storm, the war in the Persian Gulf. Whether you served, knew someone who served in one of these conflicts, or never wore the uniform of the United States, the Veterans Museum is just as informational as it is inspirational.

At the Veterans Museum of Branson, you’ll feel as though you’ve met the men—and women—who wore these uniforms, sailed aboard these ships, fired the weapons, flew the planes and were decorated with these medals. Ten great halls cover the wars and conflicts fought during the 20th Century. Each hall features dramatic and thought-provoking artifacts that tell the story of each conflict. The names of the men and women killed in these actions are permanently inscribed on the museum walls to pay a silent tribute to their sacrifice. The names of the men and women killed in action in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Persian Gulf, and recent conflicts of the 20th Century circle these walls—some 400,000 names from World War II alone.

The world's largest memorial bronze sculpture is the centerpiece of the museum, crafted by Hoppe himself. Featuring 50 life-size statues storming a beach, the bronze weighs 15 tons, is 70 feet in length and depicts life-size figures modeled after a combat soldier from each of the 50 states. Sculptor Fred Hoppe didn’t leave out Dad, either. Fred Hoppe, Senior is depicted as the lead soldier in the art work.

Printed on every list of things to do in Branson, The Veterans Museum of Branson is open daily except Christmas, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. During the busier summer season, museum hours are extended until 7 p.m. While there is an admission charge, a discount is offered for American veterans of service in all of the Armed Forces. Seems fitting, doesn’t it?

Recommended Bluegreen Resorts:
Bluegreen Wilderness Club at Big Cedar
The Falls Village
The Cliffs at Long Creek

Branson Gears Up For Veterans Week

2010-11-05T13:44:00.000-07:00

A story about Branson's Veterans Week in the Springfield NewsLeader, included comments from June Tillis our director of sales:

June Tillis, director of sales at the Veterans Memorial Museum and a task force board member, said the event is unique to Branson for many reasons.

"You have to have a unique location like Branson with all the theaters and attractions and all the volunteers who want to make this happen," Tillis said.

Branson's Veterans Day parade has been a part of Branson for 77 years but the weeklong celebration started in 1995, said Dan Lennon, director of marketing for the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. Among the highlights has been the annual Tony Orlando Yellow Ribbon Salute to Veterans, a special show that is free to veterans and their families.

For the past few years, the celebration has been, "Branson doesn't forget our military and their families."

Bradley said the veterans' families are crucial.

"We are very supportive of the spouses and families," he said. "They have to put up with twice the baloney. They have to put up with the family member's service and they have to put up with the military."

Read the entire story here: http://www.news-leader.com/article/20101031/NEWS02/10310339/Branson-gears-up-for-veterans-week

About Fred Hoppe's sculptures including those at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson

2010-10-30T09:04:00.000-07:00

Great story on the Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson from In The Spirit blog

2010-10-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

With the wind howling outside and the rain pelting the panes, I’m thinking it would be mighty nice to be back in Branson (Mo.) today. Their forecast is for 70 degrees and sunny.

But, since I’m not there physically, I’m going back in thought.

May I take you with me?

I’ve had two previous posts on our recent trip to Branson. One was about the great motel we stayed in and the other on the shows we saw. I need to tell you of a couple other places you must visit if you are planning a trip to Branson and I know of people from here who are packing as we speak.

Branson has a very impressive Veterans Memorial Museum that had its grand opening on Nov. 11, 2000. It honors those who served in World War I, World War II, the Korean, Vietnam and Persian Gulf Wars as well as the cold war and other conflicts fought during the 20th Century. It’s a moving experience to browse the 18,000 square feet of art and exhibits. The walls are covered with the names of men and women who sacrificed their lives for us. More than 400,000 names alone are displayed on the World War II walls.

The exhibits and memorabilia which honor all branches of the service start in the World War I Hall and continue on in nine other halls.

The museum was the brainchild of a rural Nebraska man by the name of Fred Hoppe. Fred was inspired by the stories he heard from his father, Fred Sr., and the men who fought alongside his father in World War II. Along with designing, funding and building the museum, Hoppe collected and wrote the scripts for more than 2,000 rare military artifacts that he donated to the museum.

Go here to read the rest of the story: http://inthespirit.areavoices.com/2010/10/27/back-to-branson-one-more-time/#comment-210

War's end remembered - Branson man witnessed signing that ceased WWII

2010-09-03T04:11:00.000-07:00

Friday, September 3, 2010 By Mindy Honey Society Editor

Branson resident Wilbur “Bill” Steele remembers what it was like 65 years ago, the day Japan formally surrendered, ending World War II.

Steele, a 2nd class motor machinist mate, was aboard the USS McClelland DE-750, which was pulled up next to USS Missouri during the signing.

“I had probably a better view than the camera men,” Steele said on Thursday morning, standing inside the Veterans Memorial Museum.

He said while many of his shipmates were playing games and relaxing, he made an effort to try to see the signing.

“I realized it was historic,” he said.

While it was a historic day for the world, for Steele, “It meant I got to go home.”

Sixty-five years after Steele witnessed the signing, he re-watched it again on video at the veterans museum. The Branson Veterans Task Force held a short ceremony commemorating the formal surrender.

“I came to watch the video,” the 84-year-old veteran said.

He wanted to see if he could see his ship in the video.

“It brought back a lot of memories, of course,” Steele said.

Upcoming Branson Veterans Task Force events include Branson Remembers 9/11 on Saturday, Sept. 11, at Branson Landing. On Sept. 18, there will be a POW-MIA Day Silent March in downtown Branson. Veterans Homecoming Week is set for Nov. 5-11.

Spirit of '45 designed to inspire - Proclamation read at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson

2010-07-07T06:01:00.000-07:00

Several veterans gathered Monday at the Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson for a proclamation reading, recognizing the Spirit of 45 movement.

Dick Erickson, fourth from left, reads a proclamation from Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley, recognizing the importance Keep the Spirit of ‘45 Alive project. Keep the Spirit of ‘45 Alive is a yearlong national campaign to raise public awareness about the 65th anniversary of the end of WWII and to inspire a renewed commitment to service and national unity in America.

Read the rest of the story by Mindy Honey of the Branson Tri-Lakes News by clicking here:
http://bransontrilakesnews.com/news_free/article_429d5682-894b-11df-acb2-001cc4c03286.html

Fred Hoppe of Veterans Memorial Museum Branson, creates sculptures for Beatrice and Gage County, NE

2010-06-13T13:32:00.000-07:00

‘They are dedicated to the present day soldier’ By Chris Dunker/Daily Sun staff writer Saturday, May 29, 2010

Motorists traveling northbound on South Sixth Street might have met the gaze of the bronze soldier in mid-stride at Veterans Memorial Park.

The statue, commemorating Beatrice and Gage County’s involvement in World War II, is the latest monument at the park - and just the first in what some community members hope is a long line of sculptures marking the sacrifices given by soldiers for nearly 150 years.

Verdella Vetrovsky, co-chair of the Veterans Memorial Park, said the committee has raised approximately $85,000 for another sculpture to put in the park through grants and other donations and hopes to raise $40,000 more over the next few months.

The committee has put a $50,000 deposit down on a $125,000 sculpture which will depict a male and female soldier fighting during the Gulf War as well as the global war on terrorism.

“They are dedicated to the present day soldier,” Vetrovsky said. Nebraska sculptor Fred Hoppe will create the sculpture from scratch, Vetrovsky added, making the addition to the park “unique.”

“Fred’s a Nebraska native, and he did a wonderful job on the sculpture we have in the park,” Vetrovsky said. “The sculpture he is designing now is one of a kind, that's why the cost is a little bit more because he has to start from scratch.”

Read the rest of the story here:
http://www.beatricedailysun.com/news/local/article_c8593e2e-6ac6-11df-8b2d-001cc4c002e0.html?mode=story

Image provided by Fred Hoppe. The Veteran’s Memorial Park in Beatrice hopes to raise $40,000 to purchase a new sculpture depicting male and female soldiers during the Gulf War and the global war on terror. Nebraska sculptor Fred Hoppe will create the original sculpture from scratch.

Opinion Shaper: War museum in Branson reminds us of veterans' sacrifices

2010-06-09T05:17:00.000-07:00

By Carol Hintermeister for the Suburban Journals, St Louis Metropolitan Area

My husband, Burt, and I returned a few days ago from a short vacation in Branson, Mo.

You know, "down home country," although there is a lot more to hear, see and do than just country music. It has grown into quite a tourist attraction over the years, as more variety shows, amusements, restaurants and lodgings spring up almost every season.

A Branson holiday for a family can be expensive, but it's worth it as there's something for all ages, indoors and out. We've been there many times, in different seasons, and always came home refreshed.

This time, I returned home not only refreshed, but with a profound respect for our country's armed forces. We visited one of Branson's newer attractions, the Veterans Memorial Museum.

It is filled with exhibits of artifacts, war paraphernalia, photos, and uniforms of soldiers, officers and even nurses and medics from World War I through the Gulf War. It is reasonably priced, especially for veterans and the military, and it is a self-guided tour through numerous rooms displaying the various wars.

One reason Burt wanted to visit this museum, besides being an Army veteran himself, was because he read that there was a display in one area with names of the soldiers killed in World War II. His older brother, Fred, was shot in a foxhole during that war, and he wanted to see if he could find his name on the wall.

When we walked into the room that held all these names, I was appalled, and saddened, to see the tremendous number of them printed on three huge walls. Burt found his brother's name, and a photo was taken of him standing next to the wall, pointing to it. I sensed it brought some closure to his brother's demise, as Burt appeared satisfied that Fred's name was there.

After browsing through the rest of the museum, I experienced a deeper respect for all the men and women who have served, and are still serving, in the military, especially those who have fought in wars. Actually seeing and reading what these soldiers endured, and still endure, to defend our country's freedom, made me feel ashamed I sometimes take our freedom for granted.

For the rest of the story click here:
http://suburbanjournals.stltoday.com/articles/2010/06/08/jefferson/opinion/0609jc-opshaper0.txt

Visit the Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson MO

2010-05-23T14:52:00.000-07:00

Posted on Associated Content by Bible Doc

My wife and I have been to Branson, Missouri, several times and have seen many enjoyable shows and sights. On our most recent trip, a few years ago, we saw something special: the Veterans Memorial Museum.

The museum doesn't have the happy beat of Ozark music or the nostalgia of the 50s. It doesn't have the history in Branson that "The Shepherd of the Hills" play and Silver Dollar City have. What the Veterans Memorial Museum does offer is a chance to reflect on the men and women of our nation who fought and died to give us the freedoms we enjoy today. Branson was a natural place to build such a museum because the town itself celebrates patriotism in many of the shows that are presented inits theaters.

To walk into the Veterans Museum is to leave the world of recreation and enter into a world where life and death decisions were made. It was a reminder not to take for granted the American way of life.

The Veterans Museum is the brainchild of Fred Hoppe, a well-known sculptor, who was inspired by the stories of war he heard from his father, Fred Hoppe, Sr., himself a World War II veteran.

Read the rest of the story here:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/395789/visit_the_veterans_memorial_museum.html?singlepage=true&cat=16

Veterans Memorial Museum honors heroes

2009-11-09T23:39:00.000-08:00

By Linda Burligame, Shepherd of the Hills Gazette writer

The Veterans Memorial Museum here in Branson has become one of our most popular attractions, not only for Veterans but also for anyone intrigued by the history that is presented with thousands of photos and items of memorabilia of the wars our soldiers have fought for this country. The museum is an outstanding tribute to America's Veterans. Fred Hoppe, Jr., is the creator and owner of the Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson.

The Museum is on Hwy. 76 east of Dixie Stampede. You can’t miss it — there is a World War II P-51 Mustang Fighter plane standing guard outside! Inside, an amazing sculpture depicts 50 life-sized soldiers storming a beach. Each is modeled from a real-life combat veteran, one from each of the 50 states. The lead soldier is modeled after the late Fred Hoppe, Sr., one of the most decorated combat Veterans of WWII, a fact Hoppe, Jr., did not know until shortly before his father’s death.

Hoppe is a well-known sculptor and is respected worldwide; this is one of his most impressive works. The piece is 70 feet long, took five tons of clay, and is the world’s largest bronze memorial sculpture!

Hoppe created the museum because of his father. He says his father told him, “I’m no hero; the real heroes never came home.” In the Veterans Memorial Museum, Hoppe has assembled an amazing collection of more than 2000 pieces of memorabilia, sculpture, art, photographs, letters, weapons, posters, uniforms, medals, motorcycles … I see new things every time I’m there.

You will be awestruck. The museum brings back memories for many; it’s so interesting to see the reaction of others. I think it can create important memories for younger visitors, too. There are emotionally moving displays of love and support of friends and family back home and the industrial support that was so generous and so very necessary to the war effort.

The Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson honors veterans of WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War, in nine halls. Each war is honored by a Hall in the museum, where all major battles and campaigns are recognized. The walls of the WWII Hall are covered with the names of more than 400,000 men and women who died for our freedom in that war. There is a complete list of men and women killed in Korea, Vietnam and during Desert Storm and other conflicts of the 20th Century.

Veterans always enjoy the Museum, and Branson is home to the largest veterans celebrations in the US. I encourage you and your family and friends to visit the Veterans Memorial Museum.

The Museum is an extraordinary and fascinating look at our nation’s history.

Submarine Vets Reunite at Branson's Veterans Memorial Museum

2009-10-11T22:10:00.000-07:00

By Phil Surratt, Staff Writer for Branson Tri-Lakes News
Originally published Oct. 10, 2009

During World War II, 266 submarines saw action.

Those vessels and the men who served aboard them were honored at the Veterans Memorial Museum on 76 Country Boulevard on Thursday.

A display of arm patches from each of the submarines was unveiled and dedicated.

Richard Jarenski, a veteran submariner who served aboard the USS Sterlet and is now active with the SS 392 Association, came up with the idea to honor the submarine veterans.

“When I was here a couple of years ago planning a reunion, I went through all of the places in Branson and the museum here. There weren’t any dolphins, no mention of submarines anywhere in town,” Jarenski said.

“We brought Japan to their knees in World War II. Our guys need to be remembered. So I came up with an idea of displaying patches of all of the submarines. I made a plea for veterans to send them to me,” he said. “The next thing I know my mailbox is full. By last February I had every one of the 266 patches to complete the project.”

It took Jarenski and his friend Sue Rainey, who lives in Tucson, Ariz., seven months to put the project together.

Rainey researched all of the submarines to make sure everything was accurate and then meticulously glued every patch into place.

After that, the display needed a home. That’s when Jarenski came up with Branson. The Veterans Memorial Museum welcomed him with open arms.

“It was back in June, when Fred Hoppe said bring the display to our museum. So we now have a home and this is where the display will stay,” Jarenski said.

Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley was on hand for the unveiling. Presley was also made an honorary submariner by the veterans group. Presley welcomed them to make Branson their home away from home.

“In some small way I hope we can create a place of comfort, a place that you can feel free to talk about your service and know that we always can never say enough thank yous to you for your service,” Presley said. “We consider it a great honor for you to pick Branson.”

The submarine veterans also honored double Purple Heart recipient Ludwig Schneibel, from Littleton, Colo.

The 89 year-old World War II veteran was in Branson with his wife, Phyllis, for a visit.

“Ludwig was injured by a gunshot and later by a grenade while fighting the Japanese in Manila,” Phyllis Schneibel said.

Schneibel did not receive his Purple Hearts until 2005.

“I ran into Ludwig in a hotel here in Branson and I invited him to be a part of our dedication,” Jarenski said. “We are honored to have him here today.”

Jarenski said bringing the submariner’s display to Branson will be a lasting memorial to the many servicemen who bravely defended our country.

“I picked Branson to be our honor city because I was so impressed with the people here and the way they pay tribute to veterans,” he said.

Statues created by Veterans Memorial Museum-Branson owner Fred Hoppe added to Veterans Park in Beatrice NE

2009-07-06T08:06:00.000-07:00

Statues added to Veterans Park
By Chris Dunker/Daily Sun staff writer
A new sentry has been posted at Beatrice’s Veterans’ Memorial Park.

Photo by Chris Dunker/Daily Sun staff
Sculptor Fred Hoppe of Malcolm, left, and crew position his sculpture of a World War II soldier Thursday morning at Veteran’s Memorial Park in Beatrice. Hoppe created a sculpture he says memorializes Beatrice and Gage County men who served and died in that war.

The World War II-era memorial statue holds a look with a ‘thousand-yard stare,’ his rifle held firmly in his hands.

The sculpture is the first in a long-term vision for transforming the park, project coordinator Verdella Vetrovsky said.

“The sculpture has been in our vision for a long time,” Vetrovsky said.

She admitted the Rotary Club and committee interested in purchasing statues for Veteran’s Memorial Park had always had their eye on Malcolm sculptor Fred Hoppe.

“We always wanted Fred Hoppe to do it because he is a local Nebraskan and his work at the Branson Memorial Museum is very, very good,” Vetrovsky said.

The first statue was set into concrete Thursday morning near the road. Vetrovsky hopes more statues memorializing veterans from other wars and branches of the military can be purchased and placed at the park.

To read the rest of the story click here:
http://www.beatricedailysun.com

WWII Submarine Display to be displayed in Branson at Veterans Memorial Museum. Story from White Mountain Independent's Online Edition

2009-07-01T07:19:00.000-07:00

Overgaard residents Dick Jarenski and Sue Rainey stand with displays to honor WWII submarine servicemen. They displays, which they produced, are ready for transport to the Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson, Mo.

During the winter, Overgaard residents Dick Jarenski and Sue Rainey produced, assembled and labeled six displays to honor the submarines of World War II. These will be permanently housed in the Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson, Mo.

After a full day presentation to the public Oct. 2 at the Wheeler Taft Abbett Sr. Library in Marana, they will be transported by cargo van and unveiled at the museum on Oct. 8.

Jarenski is a member of the USSVI White Mountain Base and a life member of the U.S. Submarine Veterans. He is commander of the USS Sterlet (SS392) Association, which has funded this project. The ceremony will be during their reunion in Branson Oct. 7-11.

On Oct. 8, an unveiling of six displays honoring all submarines and their crews that served during World War II will be held. This unique display of ship's patches will include a special display honoring the lost submarines and about 374 officers and 3,131 enlisted men still on "Eternal Patrol."

"It is to them and all that served in the Silent Service that we will dedicate this memorial," said Jarenski and Rainey, treasurer of the USS Sterlet (SS392) Association in Tucson.

After it was decided on how the project would be laid out and displayed, the Veterans Memorial Museum, Branson Chamber of Commerce and Branson mayor's office were contacted. After receiving their support and final approval from Fred Hoppe, owner of the museum, the work on the display began.

It was during an August Reunion Planners Conference in Branson, known as the "Veterans' City," that Jarenski noticed that there was no tribute to the submarines of WWII. He and Rainey conceived the patch display project, and beginning in November 2008 Jarenski, began contacting veterans that served on these vessels for their thoughts and support.

By January, the patches started to flow in from all over the United States. It was a total landslide of not only patches but gratitude in support of this memorial to the submarines of WWII.

By March 15, all 326 patches were received. The frames for the displays were completed and only the labeling and final gluing were needed.

Those visiting Branson are invited to see this display at the Veteran's Memorial Museum at 1250 W. State St., Hwy 76, in Branson beginning October 8, 2009.

Wall Holds Name of US War Dead

2009-05-25T14:23:00.000-07:00

By Wes Taylor

With a long weekend just days away, it would be easy to use Memorial Day for a family picnic at the park or to catch up on episodes of "Lost."

Lincoln sculptor Fred Hoppe hopes you use the time as it was intended: to remember the men and women who died in America's service.

Read the rest of the story on the Omaha World Herald website at:
http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=2798&u_sid=10637544

Perspectives: Museums prove Branson much more than country music

2007-04-21T07:47:00.000-07:00

Randall Murphree - Guest Columnist
OneNewsNow.com

John Joslyn's voyage aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic has lasted 20 years. Joslyn is, in a manner of speaking, captain of Titanic Branson, the world's largest museum attraction. The opulent ship's replica opened in April 2006, 94 years after the "unsinkable" Titanic collided with an iceberg and sank.

Joslyn has produced television specials and researched the Titanic for two decades. The journey has brought him finally to Missouri, where the Titanic Branson exhibit dropped anchor on Highway 76 in downtown Branson. Joslyn said it is intended to celebrate the lives of all those who sailed on the Titanic. To make it appealing to visitors, he created a wide range of stations that are interactive, informative and entertaining at the same time.

"It's fun," he said. "You get to come in through an iceberg. And I want people to see that magnificent ship outside." I must affirm Joslyn's adjectives -- it is fun and it is magnificent. The imposing Titanic facade is hard to miss, anchored as it is in water on Branson's main drag. It replicates (on a 50% scale) the front half of the luxury liner, rising more than 100 feet.

If you haven't been to this Mid-America entertainment capital, you may be under the illusion that it's all country music. I once thought so myself. There's a lot of that there for sure, but you'll be surprised, as I was, to find countless other family-oriented features.

For example, major league family attractions in Branson include Celebration City and Silver Dollar City amusement parks with rides, kids' games, fireworks extravaganzas, music and drama; Showboat Branson Belle dinner-and-show cruises; Shepherd of the Hills outdoor drama; and '57 Heaven, a collection of flawless1957 automobiles and memorabilia displayed in a '50s setting.

And there are more kids' interest venues than you can shake a stick at, including White Water Park with wet fun for all ages. At Track Family Fun Parks, kids can enjoy bumper boats and cars, mini golf, arcades and multi-story go-kart tracks. And every kid will want to travel aboard Ride The Ducks, a fleet of strange-looking tour vehicles that travel on land and water.

Soldiers are loved
In a more serious vein, and still appealing to families, are one-of-a-kind museums such as Titanic Branson and Veterans Memorial Museum. Branson has long enjoyed the reputation of being veteran-friendly as well as family-friendly.

Captain Bob Trapp drove the Duck that took us through old downtown Branson. Capt. Bob, a native of Central California and a Vietnam veteran, said Branson knows how to respect veterans.

"This is the first place I've ever been proud to be a veteran," he said. National Welcome Home Week for Vietnam vets was observed June 13-19, 2005, with events scattered across the nation. Branson was the epicenter of the national observance, hosting its own patriotic gala to celebrate the veterans who had returned from Vietnam to a not-so-friendly reception decades earlier.

The Veterans Memorial Museum honors veterans of every American war in the 20th century. Though the museum building doesn't blink and flash bright lights like its musical neighbors, it's easy to spot with its World War II P-51 Mustang fighter plane sitting on the front lawn.

The museum's hallmark exhibit is the world's largest bronze memorial sculpture. Created by sculptor Fred Hoppe, Jr., the 70-foot-long, 15-ton work features 50 life-size soldiers storming a beach. Each figure is modeled after a real-life combat veteran, one from each of the 50 states.

Inspired by his father, a WW II veteran, Hoppe designed and funded the museum as well as researched, collected and wrote the texts posted to explain more than 2,000 artifacts he donated to the museum.

"I wanted to honor these men and women who gave their lives for the freedoms we enjoy today," Hoppe said. His legacy is a moving tribute that gives pause to remember our history and appreciate our veterans.

"Yeah, they treat vets well here in Branson," Capt. Bob said.

Ship is legend
Titanic Branson, however, keeps one foot planted firmly in history and one in entertainment. Visitors to the 17,000-square-foot ship stroll through 20 galleries where more than 400 artifacts are on display. It is a hands-on, emotion-laden, mind-stretching experience. You may go at your own pace, but a real student of the Titanic should set aside 90 minutes for the experience.

On your ticket stub, you'll find the name of a Titanic passenger or crew member. Take the Grand Staircase from Third Class to First. Experience what your person experienced. Touch an iceberg, stand on a deck that's listing at 10 degrees, 20 degrees or 30. Sit in a lifeboat to hear passengers' stories.

Did your person survive? Enter the Memorial Room and find out. It's quite a powerful experience, a little history mixed with the bittersweet intrigue of romance and tragedy.

"And this season, there's a new feature," said Mary Kellogg Joslyn, wife and partner of John in the Branson attraction. "We have a new audio tour that includes John's recorded interviews with Titanic survivors." One even told him about watching from the lifeboat as the great ship sank.

Joslyn's love affair with the Titanic began two decades ago. "For 30 years, I was a television producer in Los Angeles," he said. "I was the guy who did shows that could grab ratings for the networks when they wanted to do what we call a bait-and-switch. If we can grab them for two hours, hopefully we can introduce them to some other kind of [regular series] program."

His specials include Return To The Titanic.... Live, Atlantis: In Search of the Lost Continent, and Bermuda Triangle: Secrets Revealed. Joslyn had just finished a project in the mid-1980s when he read a National Geographic article about the discovery of the Titanic . He told his partner, "Let's go out and do the Titanic."

His partner thought he was crazy, but after he calmed down they decided they should give it a try.

"And we did," Joslyn said, "and that started us on this journey of being on this ship for 20 years."

Joslyn, CEO of Cedar Bay Entertainment, built his first Titanic exhibit in Orlando, but had long been interested in a Branson site as well.

"My wife and I came here the first time in 1992 to produce a television special," he said. "Then we started coming here every year for vacation. Friends in California would say, 'Now, just where are you going -- Branson, where-is-it?'"

In late 2005, the Joslyns finally moved from California to Branson. They still find their Titanic voyage exciting and invigorating. And Branson's family audience is certain to discover the same excitement at Titanic Branson.

In my continuing series on Branson next week, I'll be looking at Branson Spotlight -- this southwestern Missouri city's own "American Idol"-style competition.

Randall Murphree, a regular contributor to OneNewsNow.com, is editor of AFA Journal, a monthly publication of the American Family Association.

Editor's Note: The American Family Association is the parent organization of the American Family News Network, which operates OneNewsNow.com.

All Original Content Copyright 2006-2007 American Family News Network - All Rights Reserved

Osborne Statue Added to North Stadium

2006-09-01T07:33:00.000-07:00

by Brandon Gries and Kevin Bair/NewsNetNebraska
NewsNetNebraska.org

A new statue of former Husker head coach Tom Osborne and quarterback Brook Berringer greets fans at the north entrance of the Tom and Nancy Osborne Athletic Complex. It is the latest addition to the $50 million complex. (Photo by Kevin Bair/News Net Nebraska)

(Lincoln, Neb.) - A final addition was made to the new Tom and Nancy Osborne Athletic Complex late Tuesday evening as a life-sized bronze statue of Osborne and former Nebraska quarterback Brook Berringer was placed outside the north entrance of Memorial Stadium.

The statue is just one of the many new amenities to the month-old Tom and Nancy Osborne Athletic Complex and is the second at Memorial Stadium created by Malcolm, Neb., artist Fred Hoppe, joining the 'Husker Legacy' statue on the east side of Memorial Stadium.

On Wednesday afternoon, onlookers were forced to take a second look at Nebraska's newest football jewel.

The 'Husker Legacy' statue, created in 1997, stands on the east side of Memorial Stadium. Like the new Osborne statue, it was also created by artist Fred Hoppe. (Photo by Brandon Gries/News Net Nebraska) "It's pretty neat,' UNL sophomore Tyler DoBoer said. "And very authentic. Fred Hoppe (bronze sculptor) did a wonderful job. It feels like a real football (In Berringer's hand). Seriously, feel it."

Osborne's image isn't a rare commodity around the stadium. In 1998, the field was named in honor of the three-time national champion coach, although the lettering 'Tom Osborne Field' was later taken off the turf per his request. Berringer is most-known for leading the Huskers to the 1994 national championship but was later killed in a 1996 plane crash.

Fans that haven't seen the statue could take the opportunity on Friday night when public tours will be offered of the new Tom and Nancy Osborne Athletic Complex from 6-9 p.m. Nebraska opens the 2006 season this Saturday at 2:30 p.m. when they take on the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs at Memorial Stadium.

The 'Husker Legacy' statue, created in 1997, stands on the east side of Memorial Stadium. Like the new Osborne statue, it was also created by artist Fred Hoppe. (Photo by Brandon Gries/News Net Nebraska)

Veterans Memorial Museum Unveils Original Oil Painting, "Red Tails Strike Again" in Honor of Tuskegee Airmen

2006-06-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

(Branson, MO) - Fred Hoppe, owner of the Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson, Missouri announced today that the original oil painting, "Red-Tails Strike Again", by artist Mike Hagel will be on display at the museum. "Red-Tails Strike Again" is a 4' x 8' mural of a return mission in 1944 of the Tuskegee Airmen protecting a US Bomber. In the mural 'Wild' Bill Campbell, flying his P-51 Mustang Fighter Plane, is shooting down a German ME 109, as his wingman breaks formation to join him. The Tuskegee Airmen, during WWII, destroyed or damaged 409 enemy aircraft, and they flew over 2,578 missions, 200 of these missions were as heavy bomber escorts deep into the Rhineland, during which time not one of the heavies were lost to enemy fighters. The Tuskegee Airmen were referred to as 'Red-Tails' because they predominately flew P-51 Mustang Fighter Planes distinctively painted red on the tail.

Hoppe said, "Acquiring this painting is especially exciting for us because of the reunion of the Tuskegee Airmen and the 15th Air Force Heavy Bomber Groups & Squadrons that will be held in Branson during Veterans Homecoming Week. Many of the Tuskegee Airmen are scheduled to visit the museum. Artist Mike Hagel will join us November 9th and 10th to sign prints of 'Red-Tails Strike Again'."

Artist Mike Hagel, based out of Omaha, Nebraska, says, "I wanted to pay homage to these American heroes who not only had to overcome racial discrimination to prove they were superior pilots, but did their missions so well as to never have lost a bomber they were assigned to protect." Hagel, with over 30 years of illustration experience, specializes in historical aviation missions. Other murals of his displayed at the Veterans Memorial Museum include "Surrender Flight", "Butch O'Hare", and "Simpson Harbor".

The Veterans Memorial Museum features over 2000 exhibits progressing through the wars of the 20th Century, including WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf. Along with "Red-Tails Strike Again", a hallmark of the museum is the world's largest war memorial bronze sculpture. Over 70 feet long, weighing 15 tons, the sculpture is of 50 life-size soldiers storming a beach. Each soldier is modeled after an actual combat veteran from each of the states. The museum also features a sculpture of three U.S. soldiers serving in Vietnam that greets visitors upon entry to the museum. One of those soldiers is Senator Chuck Hagel of Nebraska, who is the brother of Mike Hagel.

Fred Hoppe, owner of the Veterans Memorial Museum, says, "In addition to our existing collection of war time exhibits we are continually researching and adding new displays. We're excited to be able to add another stirring tribute like "Red-Tails Strike Again" to the museum as we continue to honor the men and women who fought so bravely to maintain our freedoms." The museum, on West Highway 76 in Branson, is easy to find as there is a full-sized World War II P-51 Mustang Fighter Plane located in front of the building. Call 417-336-2300 for further information.

Veterans Memorial Museum Welcomes Brigadier General Paul Tibbets on May 5, 2001

2001-04-23T07:42:00.000-07:00

Branson, MO -- Brigadier General Paul Tibbets, the pilot of the famed B-29 Enola Gay, will be available on Saturday, May 5, 2001, at the Veterans Memorial Museum to autograph photos and copies of the book, "Return of the Enola Gay". Visitors are welcome to bring their cameras along to have their pictures taken with Brigadier General Tibbets. Visitors wishing to view the Veterans Memorial Museum in addition to meeting the Brigadier General will receive a special $ 5.00 off regular adult admission.

Brigadier General Tibbets will also be at the Welk Resort Center in the lobby of the Champagne Theater from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Friday, May 4, 2001. StoneBridge Village, a gated resort community located just West of Branson, sponsors the visit by Brigadier General Paul Tibbets as part of their contribution to Branson's appreciation for all veterans. David Bean of StoneBridge Village comments, "It's a privilege to bring Brigadier General Paul Tibbets to Branson. His visit to the Welk Resort and the Veterans Memorial Museum gives all of our visitors an opportunity to meet and talk with an important participant in American history."

Tibbets served in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters during World War II. He led the first daylight bombing raid against the Nazis and the first 100 plane raids against Germany. In September of 1944, Tibbets was assigned the task of recruiting, organizing, and training the personnel to drop the atomic bomb. Tibbets flew the first atomic mission against enemy forces when he piloted the B-29 named after his mother, Enola Gay. That mission took place on August 6, 1945 when the bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, which set in motion the end of World War II with Japan.

Fred Hoppe, owner of the Veterans Memorial Museum, says, "The museum is a tribute to our veterans and their courage; we invite our visitors stop in and honor a true American hero, Brigadier General Paul Tibbets. We're grateful that his strength of purpose saved the lives and freedoms of so many people." The museum, on West Highway 76 in Branson, is easy to find as there is a full-sized World War II P-51 Mustang Fighter Plane located in the front of the building. Call 417-336-2300 for further information.

Veterans Memorial Museum/Branson Celebrates Grand Opening

2000-11-11T07:43:00.000-08:00

Branson, MO - The dreams and vision of a rural Nebraska man were realized this week with the grand opening of the Veterans Memorial Museum in the town of Branson, Missouri. The Veterans Task Force is calling this one of the "greatest tributes ever completed for the Veterans of the Twentieth Century." The hallmark of the museum is the world's largest war memorial sculpture created by internationally known sculptor, Fred Hoppe.

Fred Hoppe (Hop'-ee) of Malcolm, Nebraska used five tons of clay to sculpt one of the world's largest sculptures, a 70-foot long, 15 ton bronze sculpture, consisting of 50 life-size soldiers storming a beach. Each figure is modeled after an actual combat veteran, one from each of the fifty states. Hoppe donated the sculpture (valued at 3 million dollars) to the Museum.

Hoppe literally took things into his own hands after being turned down by over 36 foundations when trying to get funds to honor the country's veterans. Besides designing the Veterans Memorial Museum and participating in its construction, he cut up 70 tons of logs in a homemade sawmill in his backyard to cut costs on the siding and lumber used in the museum's 18,000 square foot building. He also collected and wrote the scripts for over 2000 rare military artifacts he donated to the Museum.

The main hall of the museum has over 150 feet of walls covered with the names of over 400,000 men and women killed in action during World War II. This is the only place in the world where a complete list of these names has ever been displayed. The other five halls in the museum honor veterans from WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Persian Gulf and other conflicts, and includes a list of all those killed in the line of duty in all other engagements of the 20th Century (except for WWI).

Museum experts claimed the sculpture, building, and exhibits would require a minimum of five to six years to complete. With World War II veterans and Korean veterans dying off at a rate of over 1,000 per day, Hoppe lived up to his pledge to complete the project in just ten months. Discouraged by the lack of memorials to honor the veterans of this country, Hoppe mortgaged his home and personal property to raise additional funds for the project.

Hoppe was inspired by the stories and sacrifices he heard about from his father (Fred Sr.) and the men that fought alongside his father during World War II. Hoppe said, "My father was so crippled up from being wounded four times, that he couldn't even play catch with me when I was a kid." Hoppe didn't learn that his father was one of the countries most decorated combat veterans until shortly before his father's death in 1994. When Hoppe asked his father why he had never told the family that he was a hero, his father replied, "I'm no hero, the real heroes never came home."

The Veterans Memorial Museum is located at 1250 West 76 Country Music Boulevard in Branson, Missouri. A full-size WWII P-51 Mustang Fighter Plane landmarks this national tribute to our veterans. Hoppe adds, "I wanted to honor these men and women who gave their lives for the freedoms we enjoy today. I just want the American public to be as proud of our veterans as I am."

Veterans, special visitors, local residents, and honored dignitaries gathered to celebrate the Grand Opening of the Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson, Missouri. Opening ceremonies included the presentation of the Colors of the United States by the Tri-Lakes Color Guard. Retired Brigadier General Carl Oscar Johnson acted as Master of Ceremonies and Retired General Charles Honore was the featured speaker. Judge Robert A. Decatur, Retired Tuskegee Airman, led guests in the Pledge of Allegiance and Chaplain Lamar Hunt, Colonel, Retired, U.S. Army, conducted the invocation. Entertainment included Miss Nedra Culp, Branson's Two-Time Female Vocalist of the Year, from the "50's At The Hop" show singing the National Anthem; and the Lennon Brothers (Joe, Bill, & Dan) with Bill's wife Gail from the Lennon Brothers Swing Music Show singing "On A Wing & A Prayer".

Owner Fred Hoppe also welcomed guests and spoke about his desire to honor our veterans and educate the public with the Veterans Memorial Museum. Honored guests were introduced and the ceremony concluded with a special ribbon cutting by the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB. For information on the Veterans Memorial Museum call 417-336-2300.

Veterans Memorial Museum Raises WWII P-51 Mustang Fighter Plane

2000-10-16T07:46:00.000-07:00

(Branson, MO) - A full-size WWII P-51 Mustang Fighter Plane was set on it's 30' high pedestal in front of the Veterans Memorial Museum in Branson, Missouri on Monday, October, 16, 2000.

The raising of the plane occurred amidst the national sorrow following the terrorist bombing of the USS Cole.

As the crowd gathered to watch many reflected on their personal experiences defending our country and on the continuing defense of freedom by our military.

Veteran Harry McBratney said, "In America our sons and daughters are called upon time after time to defend our freedoms. They have always answered that call and they continue to respond. It's a privilege to be called a Veteran of the United States of America."

Large American flags surround the museum, along with the full-size WWII P-51 Mustang Fighter Plane in front of the building, marking the location of this national tribute on West Highway 76.