College of the Ozarks plans POW/MIA Memorial

College of the Ozarks announced plans to build a POW/MIA Memorial in Patriots Park, as part of a year-long effort to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence of the United States.

The new memorial – designed by Nixa artist James Hall III, who has three existing memorials in Patriots Park – will be dedicated at 3 p.m. Nov. 5. It will reflect on the sacrifices of American service members and honor those who endured captivity as prisoners of war or remain missing in action.

The private higher education institution in Point Lookout, just south of Branson, planned the event to promote an appreciation for patriotism, service and faith, according to a news release.

“Re-awakening the American spirit means remembering that freedom has always come at a cost,” said Chassidy Brittain, director of patriotic activities, in the release. “This memorial gives future generations a place to understand that sacrifice and to ensure these heroes are never forgotten.”

College of the Ozarks was the first college to receive the designation of POW/MIA Campus, an honor bestowed by the Board of Directors of the Jefferson Barracks POW/MIA Museum in St. Louis County, the release said.

“Being designated a POW/MIA Campus is a powerful commitment, and this new memorial makes that commitment visible and permanent – not just a title,” Brittain said in the release. “It brings the mission of remembrance onto our own campus grounds, giving students and visitors a daily place to reflect, learn and honor those who endured captivity and those still unaccounted for. In that way, the monument strengthens the meaning of the designation by turning it into a living, ongoing witness.”

An eternal flame will burn continuously in front of the marble monument, officials said in the release. The POW/MIA emblem will be in the center of the monument and Psalm 23 will be inscribed on the back. Behind the monument, a partially hidden POW figure will be shown in prayer.