Missouri Music Hall of Fame
Britt Small's career spans the course of a lifetime, beginning on his return to the states from his extended service in the Vietnam conflict. In 1973, he formed his band FESTIVAL. For the next twenty-eight years, FESTIVAL released eighteen albums as a twelve-piece ensemble, traveled over two million miles performing from coast to coat and from boarder to boarder. Britt has been called "The musical voice of America's veterans", and has made it his life's work to spread awareness of the veteran's plight, and to raise spirits through song. He has performed at the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., at the dedication of the Vietnam Women's Memorial, and at the dedication of the Korean War Memorial, as part of his continued dedication to the use of music as an artistic and educational expression. BRITT SMALL is inducted into the Missouri Music Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2012 on September 1, 2012 at Phil Welch Stadium, St. Joseph, Missouri. (Editor's note: Britt Small was inducted into the Missouri Music Hall Fame with jazz saxophonist, Charlie Parker, and ragtime pianist and composer, Scott Joplin)
Britt Small's career spans the course of a lifetime, beginning on his return to the states from his extended service in the Vietnam conflict. In 1973, he formed his band FESTIVAL. For the next twenty-eight years, FESTIVAL released eighteen albums as a twelve-piece ensemble, traveled over two million miles performing from coast to coat and from boarder to boarder. Britt has been called "The musical voice of America's veterans", and has made it his life's work to spread awareness of the veteran's plight, and to raise spirits through song. He has performed at the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., at the dedication of the Vietnam Women's Memorial, and at the dedication of the Korean War Memorial, as part of his continued dedication to the use of music as an artistic and educational expression. BRITT SMALL is inducted into the Missouri Music Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2012 on September 1, 2012 at Phil Welch Stadium, St. Joseph, Missouri. (Editor's note: Britt Small was inducted into the Missouri Music Hall Fame with jazz saxophonist, Charlie Parker, and ragtime pianist and composer, Scott Joplin)
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
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
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 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
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
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
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 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
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
City of Sikeston Proclamation
BRITT SMALL AND FESTIVAL DAY
Whereas, the City of Sikeston would like to commend Britt Small and Festival for their continued efforts in supporting all veterans and their causes;
Whereas, we support American patriotism and appreciate Firebase Sikeston, and those people who have fought for these beliefs;
Whereas, we salute Britt Small for his numerous awards and accomplishments in his work for his fellow veterans. We also salute his band, Festival and the Festival Family for standing by Britt and helping his efforts for the past twenty years;
Whereas, the members of Britt Small and Festival not only spread good music and laughter, they do it in a way that makes their audience feel good about themselves and those around them:
Now Therefore, I, Mike Moll, Councilman for the City of Sikeston, Missouri do herby proclaim March 19, 1993 as
Britt Small and Festival Day
In Sikeston, Missouri and urge all citizens to attend the free public concert given on the evening of March 19, 1993 at the Sikeston Field House.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the City of Sikeston, Missouri this 10th day of March, 1993
Mike Moll, Councilman
ATTEST: Carroll Couch, City Clerk
BRITT SMALL AND FESTIVAL DAY
Whereas, the City of Sikeston would like to commend Britt Small and Festival for their continued efforts in supporting all veterans and their causes;
Whereas, we support American patriotism and appreciate Firebase Sikeston, and those people who have fought for these beliefs;
Whereas, we salute Britt Small for his numerous awards and accomplishments in his work for his fellow veterans. We also salute his band, Festival and the Festival Family for standing by Britt and helping his efforts for the past twenty years;
Whereas, the members of Britt Small and Festival not only spread good music and laughter, they do it in a way that makes their audience feel good about themselves and those around them:
Now Therefore, I, Mike Moll, Councilman for the City of Sikeston, Missouri do herby proclaim March 19, 1993 as
Britt Small and Festival Day
In Sikeston, Missouri and urge all citizens to attend the free public concert given on the evening of March 19, 1993 at the Sikeston Field House.
In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the City of Sikeston, Missouri this 10th day of March, 1993
Mike Moll, Councilman
ATTEST: Carroll Couch, City Clerk