June 18 "Rock Concert" Vietnam Veteran Style

Woke up to a beautiful, sunny day for our concert on top of Saddlebrook mountain. It was located about 10 miles north of Branson and we were instructed to drive out, follow the signs and expect to park in a field and be "bussed" to the concert site. We were pleased upon arrival to be waved on through to the mountain top to the "handicapped" parking. Always are a bit concerned to leave the motorcycle/sidecar rig in too remote a location. It worked out great.

As we came in from the parking area, we could hear the strains of Tony Orlando singing "Tie A Yellow Ribbon Round The Old Oak Tree" and we knew we were in the right spot. Other entertainers included The Beach Boys, Ann Margaret, Yakov Smirnof, The Dooby Brothers, The Supremes, The 4 Tops, the list went on and on and on.

A few of the entertainer names were not familiar to me but once they started performing we were right there in a memorable song of 1960/1970. It was great. The crowd was in excess of 20,000 and they were all having a wonderful time with enough water, beer, hamburgers, hot dogs, etc, etc to go around for all. Dancing was rampant and wild.

We also had video links and "talks" with soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan...as well as taped messages from President Bush and numerous military commanders.

We had frequent "fly overs" by all the various military airplanes and helicopters of the Vietnam era. They even put on a battle reenactment...only thing was they forgot to warn these battle weary vets before they started the firepower...firing shots. Good test for everyone with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) in the crowd.

The only thing in short supply was shade. They had warned to bring chairs (which we did) and an umbrella for shade (which we did not). I finally scouted out and found the beginning of shade alongside one of the concessionaire tents and we hugged the tent until the sun moved further and deepened the width of the shade. It worked out fine and we soon had quite a crowd of others sharing our shade with us.

I have to say my favorite part of the entire day was the numerous times when people stopped and went out of their way to congratulate Gary on his courageous "march" in the parade the day before. He obviously had an inspirational effect on a number of them.

All in all it was a super end to a super week...hard to leave however as for the Vietnam Vets, they have needed this welcome home so badly...the friendly clasping of hands and statement of "Welcome Home, Brother" from townspeople as well as fellow vets. Hopefully it can continue and set an example as to how all our Veterans present and future should be treated.

If you love your freedom, Thank a Vet!!!

Linda