POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — College of the Ozarks is hosting a special service to honor Missouri Vietnam Veterans at the Missouri Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Tuesday, March 29, at 9:00 a.m. This event is open to the public.

The event will include special remarks by College President Dr. Jerry C. Davis, a ceremonial laying of the wreath by a Vietnam Veteran, and a playing of taps by SGM Robert Smither (Ret.).

The purpose of the memorial is to honor the fallen and properly thank Vietnam War Veterans for their sacrifice and bravery. The memorial stands near the College’s entrance and bears the names of the 1,410 Missourians who served and died in the Vietnam War.

“Once again, we are humbled to show honor to Vietnam Veterans who sacrificed so much for so many. Nearly fifty years after the war’s conclusion, it is especially important to recognize their commitment and provide our students an example of everyday citizens answering their country's call,” said Marci Linson, vice president for patriotic activities and dean of admissions.

The Missouri Legislators made this memorial at College of the Ozarks the official Vietnam War Memorial for the state of Missouri, with Missouri Senate Concurrent Resolution 43, which was sponsored by Senator David Sater from Missouri District 29. The resolution was adopted in May 2014.

The memorial is another way to further the College’s vision – which is to develop citizens of Christ-like character who are well-educated, hard-working, and patriotic.