Board appraised of diversion of $1 million in Tourism Tax funds to purchase statues
At its May 11, 2021 meeting, the Branson Board of Aldermen (Board) considered a “Resolution” authorizing the sale of three bronze Armed Services statues owned by the city. The statues, “Storming the Beach,” a 50 man statue, “Stay Low,” a 12 man statue, and “Vietnam Trio,” a three-man statue, were sculpted by Fred Hoppe for display in the Branson Veteran’s Memorial Museum. Statues Financial Challenges When financial challenges developed, Cornerstone Bank became the owner of the statues. The city of Branson purchased the three statues from Cornerstone for $1,000,000.00 in 2015., They remained in storage until eventually being put on display at various locations throughout the city. “Storming the Beach,” the 50 man statue is currently on temporary display on
