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CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO BRITT SMALL FOR HIS SERVICE AND DEDICATION TO UNITED STATES
MILITARY VETERANS
February
10, 1999 MR. GILLMOR: Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure
that I rise today to pay special tribute to an outstanding American and a very special friend to veterans across the county,
Mr. Britt Small. Mr. Speaker, Britt Small began his entertaining career in 1973, after an illustrious career in the United States Army. While in the military, he served as an MP at Fort Bragg, North
Carolina, and joined the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vietnam. Upon his graduation from Northwest Missouri State University,
Mr. Small put his Bachelor of Science Degree in Music Education to work. After two and one-half decades, he is still dearly
beloved by veterans and veterans' organizations. In fact, he is a member of the VFW, American Legion, DAV, Military Order
of the Purple Heart, and many others. Mr. Speaker, it
has been said that America prospers because of the unselfish acts of her citizens. It is evident that Britt Small [and Festival]
have given their best to help America's veterans and many others in need of service. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I would
urge my colleagues to stand and join me in paying a special tribute to Britt Small [and Festival]. I wish them continued success
in all their future endeavors. PAUL E. GILLMOR
MEMBER OF CONGRESS Sealed with the United States Congressional Seal The Missouri House of Representatives recognizes Britt Small. Missouri
House of Representatives Resolution
Whereas, the members of the Missouri House of Representatives
hold in high esteem those Show-Me State residents who bring glory and honor to themselves and to this great state through
the excellence of their accomplishments in their chosen fields of endeavor; and Whereas, Britt Small has attained considerable distinction as a
musician and singer since returning from the Vietnam War in 1970 and joining his brother in a band; and Whereas, holder of Bachelor of Science degrees in
music education and mass communications from Northwest Missouri State University, Britt Small founded a brass band called
Festival in the 1970s and toured with the group until 2001; and Whereas Britt Small took to the road as a single act with digital tracks when Festival
retired after twenty-eight years of touring and performances in Las Vegas; and Whereas, Britt Small also deserves mention of his musical performances
in connection with the Moving Wall memorial that travels from state to state; and Whereas, Britt Small was in Missouri at the Vietnam Moving Wall
on July 14, 2006, in Allendale, and will return to the state for performances on September 8 through 10, 2006, at Freedom
Fest in Skidmore; and
Whereas, it is fitting and proper that the Missouri House of Representatives should pause in its diverse daily activities
in order to acknowledge the achievements of such outstanding Missouri citizens as Britt Small: Now, therefore, be it resolved that we, the members
of the Missouri House of Representatives, Ninety-third General Assembly, join unanimously to applaud the personal and professional
accomplishments garnered by Britt Small during the past thirty-six years and to convey to him this legislative body’s
most heartfelt best wishes for continued success for many more years to come; and Be it further resolved that the Chief Clerk of the Missouri House
of Representatives be instructed to prepare a properly inscribed copy of this resolution for presentation
to Britt Small. Offered
by Representative Jim Whorton, District No. 3 House Resolution copy No. 4644, August 29, 2006 Rod Jetton, Speaker
THE OHIO HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES UNDER THE SPONSOR SHIP OF REPRESENTATIVE LYNN R. WACHTMANN HOUSE DISTRICT #83 On behalf of the members of the House of Representatives of the 122nd General Assembly of Ohio, we are pleased to extend
a special recognition to BRITT SMALL for your outstanding service to your country. You are, indeed,
a remarkable individual, combining civic concern with selfless initiative to become a dynamic force in the United States.
Since returning from the Vietnam War in 1970, you have devoted your life to service America and its veterans, and you presently
lead Britt Small & Festival, a group which puts on shows and concerts to help inspire patriotism and to pay tribute to
those men and women who have answered this nation's call to arms and who have made sacrifices in service to the United
States of America. By your decisive leadership and unfaltering dedication to service and achievement, you have certainly distinguished
yourself as a conscientious and hardworking individual, and we applaud you for your fine efforts. Willingly giving of your time, energy, and abilities, you have worked tirelessly to better the world around you, and
through your generous contributions, you have earned the respect and gratitude of many. We are certain that, in the years
to come, you will continue to display the same unwavering commitment to this nation for which you have become known, and you
are truly deserving of high praise. Thus, with sincere pleasure, we commend you for your exemplary
work and salute you as a fine patriotic American. JO ANN DAVIDSON, Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives, LYNN R.
WACHTMANN Representative, Ohio House of Representatives, 83rd District May 21, 1998
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS House of Representatives Be it hereby known to all that The Massachusetts House of Representatives
offers its sincerest congratulations to Britt Small in recognition of your presence in the Attleboro area including the concert
performances and visits that you will be performing for the citizens in our communities as well as the surrounding area. Through
your dedications, devotion and generosity for veterans, their families, and veterans services, you have very much distinguished
yourself as an outstanding member of society and a leader in veteran services. Also, you are to be highly commended for your
selfless concern and outstanding service that you continue to provide on behalf of veterans as well as all that you have accomplished
to promote both Americanism and Patriotism through your music. The entire membership extends its very best wishes and express
the hope for future good fortune and continued success in all endeavors. Given this 2nd day of November 2001 at the State House, Boston,
Massachusetts by: Thomas M. Finneran, Speaker of the House, Offered by: Elizabeth A. Poirier, State Representative
COMMONWEALTH OF
PENNSYLVANIA THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CITATION Whereas, the commonwealth of Pennsylvania is always proud to recognize those citizens
which, through their unique brand of artistry and concern for their fellowman, provide for the social and cultural enhancement
of the lives of countless citizens; and Whereas, Britt Small and the group Festival have performed live entertainment for the benefit of many veterans over
the past twenty years and have devoted their career to helping the cause of our prisoners of war and those missing in action;
and Whereas, the group
has traveled throughout the United States in the hope of bringing veterans together to enjoy an atmosphere of musical revelry
and camaraderie. The band is highly respected by friends, associates and devotees for their special blend of music and for
their generous and noble character. Now therefore, the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania applauds Britt Small and Festival for
their artistic and spirited approach to brightening the lives of countless veterans; offers warmest best wishes for the perpetuation
of their music and humanitarianism; And Directs that a copy of this citation, sponsored by the Honorable Mere H. Phillips on March 1, 1991, be transmitted
to Britt Small, Box 87, Skidmore, Missouri 64487 Merle H. Phillips, Sponsor
POST COMMANDER'S
MERITORIOUS SERVICE CERTIFICATE For
twenty-five years you have inspired us as Americans through the message of you music. You have taught us to forget our petty
differences, to be kind to one another, and especially not to forget those who have sacrificed so much to make America what
it is today. Through your dedication we will always remember with pride our POWs and MIAs, our flag and those that died to
preserve our Freedom. In recognition
of meritorious services rendered in support of the AmVets Post, the local community and to the aims, purposes and principles
of AmVets. Issued this 20th day of
February, 1999 Norman S. Scofield,
Commander AmVets Post No 1313, Napoleon, Ohio
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VETERANS REVIEWS
"It is not often that a talented person relates through his artistry feelings long hid away by a generation
from youth to maturity, whether they be pride, elation or grief. And that comes to Britt Small and what he means to us, Vietnam
Veterans of America, James L. Huard Chapter 267 of Dearborn, Michigan. On numerous occasions at hospitals and events such
as our sponsorship of the Moving Wall this past October, Britt has given substance to events in our lives and how they made
us better Americans. So it is with great pleasure that we extend our endorsement of Britt Small to whoever want to walk away
a proud American. Thank you for this opportunity to facilitate his message of reconciliation and pride." President,
VVA Chapter 267
"I saw Britt's performance at the Illinois State Fair. I had never heard of him and almost didn't stay for
his show. We were getting ready to leave when he began singing a patritic song so we sat back down to listen. This man grows
on you as you learn he sings for the veterans in the VA hospitals and state veterans' homes and everything he says seems to
come from his heart. I don't know of any performer who enjoys what he is doing as much as Britt Small, and he is unique
because he becomes the song. This man uses his talent for a wonderful purpose." M. Krell, Springfield IL
"Thank you for performing at the Reflecting Pool for Rolling Thunder. As always you do a great job." Rolling
Thunder, National President
"We want to thank you for your participation with the Chicago Stand Down. We realize that you made a sacrifice
in order to attend and for that we are truly grateful." VietNow Past National President
"This country is a better place to live because of Britt Small. It doesn't count what we say...what counts
is what we do!" Project Quest
"You performed a service far beyond that of pure entertainment, and, in doing so, provided an atmosphere
calmed of the tension which accompanied so many of those for whom the week end was an emotion-charged experience. Your service
was invaluable." Deputy Director National Salute to Vietnam Veterans
"He will make you love the red, white, and blue even more, and America becomes more beautiful. Yes he truly
cares." Missouri Legionnaire
"Your performances never fail to please any kind of crowd and, in this instance, your attention to Korean
veterans was very well received. It goes without saying that your music and method of presentation conveys the sincerity of
your feelings." Korean War Veterans Memorial Advisory Board - Washington D.C.
"As always, you were ‘top of the line’! Your reputation for excellence precedes you in the veteran
community. I know I shall always look for ways to have you present and to recommend likewise to my contemporaries."
Col (Ret.) William E. Weber
"My son came away with a better understanding of what really happened. He learned more about
those wars in one day than in an entire text of American History." non-veteran dad
"We wish to thank you and your manager, Annette, for coming to our facility to entertain our patients and
visitors. Your interest in our veterans made it a very pleasant and memorable event for all." John D. Dingell Medical
Center, Detroit, MI
"The amount of good that has come out has been immeasurable. They all spoke of what it was like to see some
other vets, such as yourself, dealing with their problems and still be able to help those who need it most. You're an inspiration
to us all, keep up the great work." Veterans Outreach Center, Wheeling. WV
"Thank you for contributing to the lives of many of our hospitalized veterans." Knoxville VA Medical
Center, Knoxville, IA
"A hospital can be a depressing place. I feel you were able to turn this day into a rewarding and memorable
experience for the veterans hospitalized here. Thank you!" Kansas City VA, Kansas City, MO
"Our great appreciation to BRITT SMALL for his great performance. He made the program special, as well as
one that will be remembered by our veterans, volunteers, and staff in years to come." Wichita VA, Wichita, KS
"You are not just an entertainer doing another show, but a real person who really cares about people. Thank
you so much." Battle Creek VA, Battle Creek, MI
"BRITT SMALL visited our "Home" and put on two great musical productions for our "members". He went beyond
the call of duty." Ohio Veterans Home, Sandusky, OH
"Our patients raved about your show; they were touched by its proud reference to Old Glory, and by the energetic
enthusiasm of your show." Prescott VA Medical Center, Prescott, AZ
"Music has to be the universal therapy. As we looked around the room we couldn't see anyone who wasn't involved
in some way. The songs were beautifully done and lifted our spirits." Manteno Veterans’ Home, Manteno, IL
"What a Wonderful Show!", that was the comment I heard from the patients and staff. I have worked at the
Veterans Homes & Hospitals for 10 years and I can honestly say BRITT SMALL’s show was the best performance we have
ever had." State of Connecticut Veterans’ Home and Hospital, Rocky Hill, CT
"Your interest in our veteran population is commendable. Continued support form both civic and service organizations
provides the ultimate in care and treatment for the veteran. Thanks for caring." VA Medical Center, Washington, DC
"Your performance was definitely a big hit. Performances such as this are of true benefit to our veterans."
Dayton VA, Dayton, OH
"I would like to express my sincere appreciation to you for the excellent entertainment you provided. When
you are in Nashville, please let us know as we are sure that the patients would appreciate a return performance." Nashville
VA, Nashville, TN
"Thank you for performing at the Nebraska Veterans Home. One goal is to provide quality entertainment for
the members...that goal was met on April 23rd...your performance was wonderful." Nebraska Veterans Home, Grand Island,
NE
"Your performance filled the room with energy and enthusiasm, and certainly displayed the love you have.
Your closing remarks were expressed with sincerity and reminded us all of the debt we have to the US veterans." Lincoln
VA, Lincoln, NE
"Your presentation was thoroughly enjoyed by all in attendance and the special message of patriotism was
very moving. Your efforts on behalf of the hospitalized veterans is a very worthy cause." Grand Island VA, Grand
Island, NE
"The special efforts extended to recognized those who served our country was an excellent tribute. I believe
this was the best celebration we have ever had and I am firmly convinced that is largely due to your involvement." Kansas
City VA, Kansas City, MO
"It was both very entertaining and often very powerful emotionally." Hines VA, Hines, IL
"BRITT SMALL always brings great joy and excitement to the patients of our medical center. The music and
patriotism shown by you was certainly respected and appreciated by everyone." Marion Medical Center, Marion,
IN
"You did indeed "lift the spirits" of our veterans by generously sharing your time and very special talents."
Omaha VA, Omaha, NE
Corporate, Fairs and School Reviews
"It’s often times a difficult task to find a form of entertainment which can transcend all age groups,
but BRITT SMALL obviously has no problem with the task. The music was great, offering something for everyone." Cargill,
Minneapolis, MN
"Your performance is nothing short of colossal. It is versatile with its music style, highly entertaining,
and tops as a professional unit." Garst Seed Company, Kansas City MO
"BRITT SMALL was fantastic!" Columbia Bank for Cooperatives, Columbia, SC
"The entertainment exceeded our expectations and I say without hesitation, it was the best program we have
had." Iowa Osteopathic Medical Assn., Des Moines, IA
"In terms of pure family entertainment, BRITT SMALL provided a total show with wide appeal for all. The response
to the shows and attendance of the performances were exceptional. " 1982 World’s Fair, Knoxville, TN
"Thank you for making the Iowa State Fair a huge success. I can’t remember when we’ve had so
many favorable comments concerning the quality and quantity of free entertainment at the Iowa State Fair. Your show was great!
Thank you." Iowa State Fair
"Thanks so much for your significant contribution to the success of the Missouri State Fair. As usual, your
group was extremely professional and very cooperative. Visitors to the Exhibition Center truly enjoyed your showmanship, and
many came to the fair especially to see your show. We appreciated your hard work and wonderful presentations very much." Missouri
State Fair
"When BRITT SMALL finished with his entertainment, no one can walk away without being touched, without being
a better American citizen, and without a better understanding of the word Patriotism." Indiana State Fair
"As teachers of these students, we would like to take a moment to stop and say "Thank you". We appreciate
greatly the educational opportunity that you provided for our students. Even though most of these students are affiliated
in some way with the armed services, it is a rare and precious moment when they come in contact first hand with such a reminder
of war. Thank you for your time, your sacrifices, and your commitment to the education of American children." Wood Middle
School (Missouri)
"I, as principal of a 1500 student body campus, thank you for helping me honor Americans so deserving. You
can feel comfort in knowing you helped students understand there is more to Freedom than simply being born in this great land.
A price has been paid." Kokomo High School (Indiana)
"We found BRITT to provide excellent entertainment for all grade levels. Patriotism was emphasized as well
as music." Grand Valley Community School District (Iowa)
"We wish to express our deepest appreciation of one of the most enjoyable experiences we have ever had. It
was an uplifting experience that has generated enthusiasm that has spread throughout the school." Reorganized School District
No R1 (Missouri)
"I sincerely wish to thank you for your wonderful performance. I realize you rescheduled for us and made
a special stop. The students loved your music and your entertaining presence." Community School District (Iowa)
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Veterans Performances
Rolling Thunder * Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Assn. *475th Fighter Group * 508th Parachute Assn. Reunion *
173rd National Reunion * 101st Airborne National Convention * American Legion National Convention * Air Force Sergeants Assn.
* Army Physicians Assistants Convention * Jumping Mustangs Reunion * Special Operations Assn. Convention * Airborne Awards
* 50th Anniversary of the Airborne * New York Ticker Tape Parade * Great Texas Stand Down * Chicago Welcome Home Parade
* 10th Anniversary Vietnam Veterans Memorial * and numerous unit reunions, VA Homes & Hospitals, VFWs, American Legions,
Moving Wall concerts, Homeless Stand Downs plus over 40 performances in front of the Lincoln Memorial...and the list
goes on
Wall Concerts
Salem OH *Jamestown ND * Cape Girardeau MO * Aurora IL * Lincoln NE * Pontiac IL * Cottage Hills IL * Keystone
SD * Melbourne FL * Richmond IN * Peoria IL * Greenville SC * Northlake IL * Sikeston MO * Providence RI * Enid OK * Mt Vernon
IL * Marquette MI * Marshall IL * Unionville MO * Milton PA * Atlantic IA * Medicine Lodge KS * Skidmore MO * Lima OH * Atwood
KS * Ft Scott KS * Lafayette IN * Pontiac MI * Toledo OH * Greenville MI * Pekin IL * Meadville PA * Pennsauken NJ *
Naperville IL * Princeton WV * Sioux Falls SD * Tannersville PA * St. Joseph MO * Jackson TN * Branson MO * Avon Park FL *
Bloomington IL * Dearborn MI * Grove OK * DeSoto KS * Linn Creek MO * Bradley IL * Lebanon MO * Salem OH * Troy KS * Florissant
MO * Jersey Shore PA * Gardner MA * Ainesworth NE * Warren RI * Allendale MO *
Reunions and Conventions
American Legion National Convention * National Gold Star Mothers Convention * Veterans of the Vietnam War
National Convention * Canadian Vietnam Veterans Reunion * Gold Star Mothers Pennsylvania State Convention * Purple Heart Association
Fundraisers * VVMC National Rally * Missouri Air National Guard * Iowa American Legion State Convention * Kansas VFW State
Convention * Missouri American Legion State Convention * Missouri National Guard Conference * Southwest Florida Veterans
Memorial * Nebraska Veterans Reunion * California Veterans Memorial Concert * Florida Vietnam Veterans Reunion* LZ Bluegrass
of Kentucky * Wyoming Veterans Reunion * Indiana Veterans Reunion * Iowa Veterans Reunion * Minnesota Veterans Reunion * Michigan
Veterans Reunion * Wisconsin Midwest All-Veterans Reunion * Missouri Veterans Reunion * Celebrate America, Wauseon Ohio *
Firebase Indy * Minnesota Homeless Vets Stand Down * Kansas City Homeless Stand Down...and many others
Corporate Events
Illinois Association of Mutual Insurance Companies * Western Missouri Private Industry Council* Missouri
Optomertic Association * FHA Meetings * West Central Electric * Ramsdell Corporation * St John's Regional Medical Center *
National Osteopathic Health Conference * Stowe-Pharr Mills * Garst Seed Company * Professional Insurance Agents of Nebraska
* Nutrena Feeds * Columbia Bank for Cooperatives * Iowa Osteopathic Medical Association * Creston Development Company * Med4Home....and
many others
World’s & State Fairs
1974 World’s Fair - Spokane, Washington
1982 World’s Fair - Knoxville, Tennessee
1984 World’s Fair - New Orleans, Louisiana
Missouri State Fair * Iowa State Fair * Illinois State Fair * Indiana State Fair * North Dakota
State Fair South Dakota State Fair * Northwest Missouri State Fair * DuQuion State Fair
County Fairs & Celebrations
Sandwich Fair, IL * Hernando County Fair, FL* Noble County Community Fair, IN * Apple Festival, Murphysboro,
IL * Dogwood Festival, Camdenton, MO * Woodstock Fair, Woodstock, CT * Logan County, IL * Rooks County, KS * Saginaw County,
MI * Sioux Empire Fair, SD * Pembina County, ND Dekalb County, IL * St. Lucie County, FL * Kalamazoo County, MI * El Paso
County, CO * Hagarstown, MD * Topsfield Fair, MA * Wayne County, PA * LaPorte County, IN * Washington County, MO * Guthrie
County, IA * Richardson County, NE * Kittson County, MN * Autumn Fest, Marshall IL
Funraisers & Benefits
American Cancer Society * Vetrock * Easter Seals * Cystic Fibrosis * American Heart Assn. * MDA * Multiple
Sclerosis * St. Judes Hospital * Veterans Homes & Hospitals * Independence KS Police Dept. * Special Olympics
* Modern Woodmen of America * National Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund * Many state and local Veterans Memorial fundraisers
& dedications * State Troopers of Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, & North Carolina Fundraisers (for children of
Fallen Troopers) and many private fundraising events for those in need
Schools & Colleges
North Attleboro High School, N Attleboro, MA * St. Mary's Sacred Heart School, North Attleboro,
MA* Napoleon High School, Napoleon, OH *Nodaway-Holt Schools, Graham, MO * Worth County School District, Grant City, MO *
Central High School, St. Joseph, MO * Kokomo High School, Kokomo IN * Ehove High School, Sandusky, OH * Huber Street School,
Secaucus, NJ * Clarendon Elementary School, Secaucus, NJ * Anita Community Schools, Anita, IA * St. Paul Lutheran School,
Napoleon, OH * Shelby School District, Shelby, IA * Missouri Southern, Joplin, MO * Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville,
MO * Missouri Western State College, St. Joseph, MO * University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA * Huron College, Huron,
SD * Minot State University, Minot, ND * Pen Valley, Kansas City, KS * Valencia Community College, Valencia, FL...and others
SONS of the PIONEERS, Gary LeMaster:
"Britt, One of the most annoying
things to me, being in the Music and Entertainment business for forty-three years, is to go to a show, and have to endure
listening to announcements by someone not qualified to do them, or with a voice that shouldn't be heard by the public. I have
been doing voice-overs and announcements for years, and have been doing the Sons Of The Pioneers pre show for the last 12
years. I was looking for someone to redo our pre-show announcements for quite a while when I met you and heard you speak.
I liked the voice, but after seeing your show, I knew you would do a great job. As usual, I was right! The announcements you
made for the Sons Of The Pioneers were really great, and do enhance our presentation of our show. You may use my personal
recommendation for anyone interested in using Britt Small for announcements, voice-overs, commercials, etc., as we are very
happy with the work you did for us. Thanks Britt and we'll see you out there on the road."
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On stage with:
The Beach Boys * Buffalo Springfield * America * The Animals II * Blood, Sweat & Tears * The Box Tops The Dovells *
Lovin’ Spoonful * John Kay & Steppenwolf * War * Jay Black & The Americans * Felix Cavalier's Rascals *
Chicago * Leon Russell * The Ink Spots * Mitch Rider & The Detroit Wheels * Tony Orlando * Sons of the Pioneers * Ferlin
Husky * Riders In The Sky * Bob Hope * Sons of the Pioneers * Willie Nelson * Johnny Cash * Bill Monroe * Kenny Rogers
* Alabama * The Statler Brothers * Oak Ridge Boys * Randy Travis * Kathy Mattea * Lee Greenwood * Chicago * Leon Russell
* Frankie Vallie & The Four Seasons * The Ink Spots * George Shearing * Woody Herman * Doc Severinsen * Henny Youngman
* Robert Klein * Williams & Ree * Leroy Van Dyke * Cristy Lane * Tony Orlando * Connie Stevens * Thom Bresh * Jett Williams
* Buster B. Jones * Ronnie McDowell * Melba Montgomery * Bobby Helms * Bill Anderson * Dick Curless * George Hamilton IV *
Jack Mack & The Heart Attack * Michele Wright Diamond Rio * Little Texas * Branscom Richmond * Count Basie * Neil
McCoy * Big Brother & The Holding Company * Prof. "Louie" & The Crowmatix * ... and many, many more
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