Vietnam veteran, bestselling author to appear at The War Memorial in April
GROSSE POINTE FARMS March 17, 2025 – Hailed as one of the most powerful voices in war literature, bestselling author and decorated Vietnam veteran Karl Marlantes brings unparalleled depth to the realities of combat and its lasting effects on the human spirit.
On April 9, join us for An Evening with Karl Marlantes: Echoes of the Vietnam War, the latest event in The War Memorial’s Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemoration Program Series. The evening begins at 6 p.m. with a VIP reception. A moderated conversation with an audience Q & A follows at 7 p.m. in the Alger Center Ballroom. Victoria Stewart, assistant director of the Wayne State University Humanities Center, will serve as moderator. The evening concludes with a photo opportunity with Marlantes at 8 p.m.
“I’m a good storyteller with all kinds of stories,” Marlantes said in speaking with the nonprofit organization in March. “I’m someone who was there at the time and has some perspective. This event is open to the audience and I’ll stay there as long as there are questions.”
The 80-year-old veteran will share his insights on war, service, and storytelling, including his 2009 novel “Matterhorn: A Novel of the Vietnam War.” This book is set in Vietnam in 1969 and draws from Marlantes’ experiences.
A Yale graduate and Rhodes Scholar, Marlantes served as a Marine in Vietnam, earning the Navy Cross, Bronze Star, and other honors. His celebrated novel “Matterhorn” was hailed by The New York Times as “one of the most profound and devastating novels ever to come out of Vietnam—or any war.” His other works include “Deep River,” exploring Finnish immigrants in the Pacific Northwest, and his latest release, “Cold Victory,” which examines Finland's political climate after World War II.
The VIP reception includes an opportunity to meet and converse with Marlantes while enjoying one complimentary beverage and gourmet hors d'oeuvres. For the photo opportunity, pictures of individuals and groups with Marlantes will be taken with your own camera or mobile phone, facilitated by The War Memorial’s professional staff. Copies of Marlantes' works will be available for purchase.
Premium tickets are $55, with general admission on sale for $30, and student tickets for $15. Discounts are available for veteran and active military. To purchase tickets, click here.
The War Memorial’s yearlong series of events and programs to honor the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans and their families. Events will include a pair of military history exhibits and a documentary film screening with expert-led discussions, art exhibits and educational lectures that explore the war’s social and psychological impact and conclude with Veterans Day Breakfast featuring a keynote address by Medal of Honor Recipient James McCloughan.
When: Wednesday, April 9 at 6 p.m.
What: Evening with Karl Marlantes: Echoes of the Vietnam War at The War Memorial
Where: The War Memorial, 32 Lake Shore Drive, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236
About The War Memorial
The War Memorial, located on the shores of Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe Farms, is an experiential space open to everyone. For over 75 years, this nonprofit organization has served as a patriotic, cultural, and community center, offering a wide range of innovative programs for all ages. Annually, The War Memorial welcomes thousands of guests for community events, educational programming, and private gatherings in its unique and historic setting. At its core, The War Memorial celebrates the ideas of American democracy while honoring those who have defended these ideals with tireless effort and personal sacrifice. As a dynamic and forward-thinking hub for southeast Michigan, The War Memorial remains committed to inspiring and enriching the community through unparalleled experiences.
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CONTACT:
Alex Szwarc, The War Memorial
Manager of Communications and Marketing
313.881.7514, aszwarc@warmemorial.org