When Capt. Sonja “Maria” Lohmeyer accepted an invitation to serve as grand marshal of Branson's 94th annual Veterans Day Parade, she had no idea she would be making history.
Lohmeyer, assistant vice president for marketing and strategic communication at College of the Ozarks and a captain in the U.S. Navy Reserve, will become the first female grand marshal in the parade's history.
"When I said yes, I had no idea that this was a first. I was just honored," Lohmeyer said.
The annual parade, scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, at 11:11 am, in historic downtown Branson, brings together Veterans, military families and community members to recognize those who have served.
For Lohmeyer, however, the significance of the occasion extends beyond the distinction of being first.
"It's about who comes behind me," Lohmeyer said.
Since receiving her commission as a Navy public affairs officer in 2002, Lohmeyer has served in numerous leadership positions across the military. Her career includes assignments supporting Multi-National Force-Iraq in Baghdad, U.S. Forces Japan and U.S.
Transportation Command. She has also served as commanding officer of Navy Reserve Seventh Fleet and United States Fleet Forces Public Affairs units.
Her military decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and two Defense Meritorious Service Medal, among others.
Throughout her career, Lohmeyer has witnessed the accomplishments of women who helped pave the way for future generations of military leaders. Those experiences have shaped her belief that leadership is not simply about achieving milestones, but about demonstrating excellence and encouraging others to pursue their own callings, regardless of gender or other labels.
She hopes her participation in the parade will inspire young people, particularly young women, who may see her in uniform and begin to imagine their own future in service.
For Lohmeyer, that inspiration begins with dedication, competence, and a commitment to excellence in whatever responsibilities a person is given.
Her connection to the Branson Veterans Day Parade is also personal. In 2025, Lohmeyer participated as a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, walking in period attire and interacting with students, Veterans, and families gathered along the streets.
She recalled seeing School of the Ozarks students cheering and thousands of Veterans and their families waving American flags, embracing one another and celebrating their shared experiences.
Those memories reinforced her appreciation for a community that continues to recognize the sacrifices made by military members and their families.
"We love how much Branson and this whole region love on our Veterans," Lohmeyer said, “where else celebrates our veterans for an entire week?”
Having experienced the parade firsthand, Lohmeyer views her selection as an opportunity to serve as an ambassador for Branson Veterans Homecoming Week and the military community.
As the nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence, she hopes the occasion will remind attendees of the importance of honoring those who have served while inspiring future generations to carry forward the values of service, sacrifice and patriotism.
Although becoming the parade's first female grand marshal is a historic distinction, Lohmeyer hopes her greatest impact will be measured by those she inspires to follow.
The 94th annual Branson Veterans Day Parade will take place Wednesday, Nov. 11, in historic downtown Branson as part of Veterans Homecoming Week, Nov. 5-11.
For media coordination or interview requests, please contact:
Valorie Coleman
Director of Communication & Public Relations
College of the Ozarks
(417) 365-2727