FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 3, 2009

SUBJECT: RECORD OF VETERAN GRAVES ADDED TO C OF O LIBRARY COLLECTION

Those in search of finding the burial spots of loved ones who served in the military can refer to an extensive compilation of exact locations where Veterans are buried in the Ozark Memorial Cemetery, now part of the Ozarkiana Collection in the College of the Ozarks Lyons Memorial Library.

The reference book charts exact grave locations of Veterans dating back to the Spanish American War.  Each listing includes the Veteran’s name, rank, military branch, conflict, birth and death date and grave location by section and row.  “The Library was pleased to add this historical book to its Ozarkiana Collection, which is dedicated to preserving Ozarks history,” said Elizabeth Andrews, public relations director.  “But more than that, the College values the importance of honoring Veterans and their sacrifices.  Helping loved ones locate the graves of Veteran friends and family members is one more way to do that.”

Veteran and Commander of the Branson/Hollister VFW Post 11290 Kevin Mackey undertook the project in order to aid the families and friends in finding the final resting place of deceased Veterans.   With the help of other veteran organizations, Snapps/Bearden Funeral Home and family members, Mackey completed the grave record book over the summer.  “Our goal,” Mackey said,” was to record the information of this nation’s heroes buried in the Ozark Memorial Cemetery.”

Interested persons may view the Veterans Grave Record book in the College of the Ozarks Lyons Memorial Library, open Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 1-5 p.m. and Sunday 2-10 p.m.

The Lyons Library also houses the Veterans History Project, which includes video recorded interviews with Veterans recounting personal experiences with military service and battle.  The History Project is part of a nation-wide initiative, spearheaded by the Library of Congress, to preserve our nation’s history.  The Branson Veterans Task Force coordinates the Veteran interviews that are added to the project.  The public is welcome to view the interviews part of the History Project, during Library hours.

Included in the Veterans Grave Record book foreword is this: “As you consider this list, please remember that each name represents honorable service given to our country.  Each name represents personal sacrifice.  Each name represents families that have dealt with the lasting effects of the service of these men and women, and so we honor them as well.”

For more information on viewing the Veterans Record Book or the Veterans History Project, please contact the Lyons Memorial Library at (417) 690-3411.

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