All veterans in the greater Springfield area are invited to join in a celebration Nov. 10-11 at Missouri State University to appreciate veterans for their military service. 

“It’s an honor for Missouri State to recognize our veterans. This is a special day for them, our university and our veteran alumni and friends,” said Brent Dunn, Missouri State vice president for university advancement and Missouri State Foundation executive director. “We encourage the entire community to attend the events on campus.” 

Nov. 10 

Veterans Day Breakfast 

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast in honor of veterans and their military service with special guest speaker Ken McClure, Springfield mayor and 1972 Bear Battalion alumnus. This event includes service songs and a Color Guard presentation by the MSU Pershing Rifles Company. The Hibernotes will also perform the national anthem. 

The event begins at 8:30 a.m. in the Plaster Student Union (PSU) Ballroom. Doors open at 8 a.m.

The breakfast is sponsored by Central Bank/Central Trust and the Missouri State Foundation. Register by Nov. 3. 

Taps Project

After a performance of the national anthem at 10:55 a.m., Taps will be played throughout campus beginning at 11:11 a.m. by Missouri State trumpeters in front of McDonald Arena.  

They will be accompanied by the MSU Bear Battalion.  

This event is free for all attendees with no registration required. 

Parking is available in the Davis-Harrington Welcome Center Lot 14 (southwest corner of National/Bear Blvd.) or Lot 29 (northwest corner of National/Bear Blvd.). Golf carts will transport guests from parking lots to PSU beginning at 8 a.m. and will run until the conclusion of Taps. 

MSU ROTC Alumni Open House 

Stop by and speak with cadre, cadets or other alumni to enjoy a trip down memory lane with the history of the Bear Battalion throughout the hallways. 

The open house is located at the southeast corner of Freudenberger House, 1000 E. Madison Ave., and will run from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Bear Battalion Ball

Join cadre, cadets, MSU VIPs and Bear Battalion alumni for their annual military ball.  

This year’s Hall of Fame recipient and guest speaker is Brig. Gen. Anthony Adrian, class of 1990.  

The event will take place from 5-10 p.m. in the Knights of Columbus Diamond Room. The cost is $45 per person. 

Register online or contact Lesa Anderson at 417-836-5791 or militaryscience@missouristate.edu. 

Nov. 11 

BearFest tailgate

Enjoy free food and beverages before the MSU Bears vs. Northern Iowa football. The event is sponsored by the MSU Staff Senate and will be held from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Veteran Student Center tent. 

For more information, contact veteranservices@missouristate.edu. 

Veterans Game Day and MSU Senior Day

Veterans and current military are invited to the Bears vs. Northern Iowa football game from 2-6 p.m. at Plaster Stadium.  

Buy your tickets at the Missouri State TIX Box Office or call 417-836-7678. 

Learn more about the events