WASHINGTON   –  U.S. Representatives Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) and Roy Blunt (MO-09) will host a “Thank You” event for all Vietnam Veterans in southern Missouri on Sunday, May 2 at Yakov’s Branson Theater in Branson.  Lt. General Marc Rogers, the Inspector General of the U.S. Air Force, will be the featured speaker.  The noon event is being held in cooperation with the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 913 in Branson, Branson Veterans Events and Associated Artists. The event is free of charge to veterans and their families.

    “The Americans who served in and during the Vietnam War do not hear enough the thanks of our grateful nation for their courageous service.  This is an opportunity to recognize these individuals as an example to every American of the sacrifices made by members of the armed services and their families,” Emerson said.  “I’m very much looking forward to this program and to the opportunity to spend time with these very special Missouri veterans.”

    The event will include Branson entertainers and a solemn salute to the 58,200 members of the U.S. Armed Forces who died during 15 years of combat, capped by remarks from Representatives Emerson and Blunt and General Rogers.  Vietnam Veterans who attend will also receive a special letter of thanks from the two members of Congress and be invited to have photos taken with the dignitaries.  Thank You to Vietnam Veterans begins with registration at 10:00 a.m. CDT on May 2, and the program will begin at noon.

General Rogers enlisted in the Air Force in 1974 and was commissioned in 1978 through the Air Force ROTC program at the University of Missouri where he earned a degree in physics. General Rogers has commanded at the squadron, group, wing, and top air force levels.  He has led combat operations in both Iraq and Bosnia. General Rogers has also had a variety of command positions in the Air Force during his 32 years.  As Inspector General of the Air Force the last ten months, General Rogers is responsible for the Air Force Inspection Agency and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.

    General Rogers also has Southwest Missouri ties.  His father and mother, Pletcher and Bonnie Rogers, still reside in Sparta in eastern Christian County where General Rogers graduated high school in 1972.

WHO: U.S. Reps. Jo Ann Emerson and Roy Blunt
WHAT: Thank You to Vietnam Veterans
WHEN: Sunday, May 2 – registration begins at 10:00 a.m. CDT, program begins at noon CDT
WHERE: Yakov’s Branson Theater, 470 State Highway 248, Branson