The students at Branson Junior High School started their day with a rare experience on Tuesday, Nov. 10, as approximately 30 veterans joined them for first period as a part of the school’s annual Veterans Day Celebration program.
Veterans were assigned to individual classrooms where they were given the chance to share their life stories and impart some wisdom onto the next generation. Students were also given the opportunity to ask their respective veterans questions about their service history and discover what it takes to be a member of the United States Military.
Following the classroom presentations, the veterans, students, teachers and administration came together in the gymnasium for their annual assembly. Veterans were invited to sit at the front of the room so they could face the students and other attendees during the program. BJHS Principal Dr. Rebecca Ash introduced the event and thanked the veterans in attendance for being a part of their program.
BJHS 8th Grade Science Teacher Brian Farrell, who provided the vision and leadership for the celebration, welcomed attendees and introduced all of the participating veterans by their respective military branch.
U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran Bob Sarver, known for his leadership with Branson Veterans of America 913 and producer and director of the annual Branson Veterans Homecoming Week Opening Celebration, was featured as the guest speaker for the assembly. While in Vietnam, Sarver was assigned to 563rd CS Co. Heavy Material Supply Cam Rahn Bay South Vietnam on October 7, 1967. He was transferred to HHC 504th Field Depot Cam Rahn Bay, South Vietnam on October 12, 1967 and was responsible for the proper procurement of supplies to the 4th Infantry Division, Pleiku, South Vietnam, and the 101st Airborne Division, A Shau Valley Vietnam.
During his address Sarver spoke on the definition and price of freedom.
“Since the inception of this great country, our forefathers drafted the meaning of freedom, in every document written in the words of life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness,” Sarver said. “As a Vietnam veteran, I know that the job that I performed while I was in the service, helped keep those values alive and well. The American way of life gives us the freedom to choose; and the standards that were established when our forefathers drafted the original documents, gives us that right. We’re free because of the many sacrifices made by the veterans here today and those that are still serving. And I challenge the students in this room this morning…when you see a veteran, you’ll recognize them. They’ll be wearing the hats of their service. Go up, shake their hand, thank them for their service. You’ll know what freedom means then because you’ll see the smile on their face of gratitude.”
In speaking directly to the student body, Sarver challenged the students to set their hearts and minds on making a positive influence.
“Today, you have an opportunity to make a difference in somebody’s life. How? By stepping up to lead when you can,” Sarver said. “It may start by running for a position of student government or heading up a school campaign or just assisting your teachers with their daily routine. Take the initiative to make an impact in somebody’s life and let others know that they should do the same thing. Be a leader, not a follower and take a stand for the things that this country stands for. You know, you can be whatever you want to be. You have the right to make choices, so make the right choice. There should be nothing holding you back. So, take the initiative to do the right thing. Don’t get involved with something that you know is wrong. You have the opportunity every day to make a positive difference in someone’s life just by being there for them.”
To conclude his address, Sarver asked the student body to recite and remember the following: ‘We can be whatever we want to be. And let’s make a positive impact in another student’s life.’
“I can only imagine what the end of the school year would be like if this became the new Branson Junior High School, school slogan. Others first and let’s make a positive impact in someone’s life today,” Sarver said. “Let me close with just a few simple phrases to you. Live your dream. Show your passion. Create your own happiness. Follow your heart. Enjoy the little things. Laugh out loud. Be your best self. Cherish every moment. Dream big. Embrace every possibility. Discover your passion. Believe in miracles. Create peace. Make a wish. Be spontaneous. Remember to breathe. Sing in the rain and remember today is the day. I only hope it’s a small way I’ve been able to make a positive impact in your lives today.”
John Kelly and the 8th Grade Honor Band followed Sarver’s speech with a performance of the Armed Forces Melody. As each of the respective branch anthems were performed, and sung by Kris Hollis, veterans and the family members of veterans were invited stand in recognition. The Tuesday morning ceremony also included performances by Kris Hollis who sang the “The Star-Spangled Banner,” Derek Bertram who performed “God Bless the USA,” and U.S. Army Retired Sergeant Major (E9) Bob Smither who performed “Taps.”
The assembly continued with a flag folding ceremony conducted by Branson Veterans of America 913 Honor Guard Members Steve Campbell and Ken Powers; as Jim Davis read “The 13-Folds of the American Flag,” which explains the symbolic meaning of each step of the folding process. Campbell, president of Branson Veterans of America 913, also issued challenge coins to BJHS Principal Dr. Rebecca Ash and BJHS 8th Grade Science Teacher Brian Farrell.
Each of the veterans were presented with a 2026 Veterans Day Christmas ornament, which was designed by BJHS 8th Grader Ramon Cervantes and crafted here in the Ozarks.
(Photo by Tim Church)
