War Memorial embarks on yearlong series for Vietnam War 50th Commemoration
GROSSE POINTE FARMS Feb. 6, 2025 – As the nation commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, The War Memorial in Grosse Pointe Farms is launching a yearlong series of events and programs to honor the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans and their families. This initiative aims to educate the public on the war’s historical impact and provide meaningful opportunities for recognition and reflection.
“It is essential for our nation and our organization to take this moment to reflect on the Vietnam War’s profound impact and, most importantly, to honor the veterans who served,” said Maria Miller, president & CEO of The War Memorial. “Through this yearlong
commemoration, we reaffirm our commitment to recognizing the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of these heroes and their families.”
Conflict and Healing: Exploring the Legacy of the Vietnam War
The War Memorial’s commemorative series, “Conflict and Healing: Exploring the Legacy of the Vietnam War,” presents a diverse lineup of programming designed to engage the community in discussions about the war and its lasting effects. Events will include:
• Two military history exhibits and a documentary film screening with expert-led discussions.
• Author talks and panel discussions featuring esteemed writers on Vietnam War history.
• Art exhibits and educational lectures that explore the war’s social and psychological impact.
These new programs will be complemented by The War Memorial’s longstanding legacy events, including:
• March 29: Vietnam Veterans Luncheon
• May 26: Memorial Day Ceremony
• November 11: Veterans Day Breakfast featuring a keynote address by a Michigan Medal of Honor recipient who served in Vietnam.
Additionally, veterans will have opportunities to gather and connect through the bimonthly Vet-to-Vet coffee hours and VetConnect Seminar Series.
Honoring a National Commemoration
The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration was authorized by Congress,established under the Secretary of Defense, and launched by President Obama in 2012. This national initiative, which continues through Veterans Day 2025, aims to:
• Thank and honor Vietnam War veterans and their families.
• Recognize the contributions of the Armed Forces and supporting organizations
during the war.
• Pay tribute to the efforts made on the home front during this historic period.
As an official Vietnam War Commemoration Commemorative Partner, The War Memorial is proud to take part in this nationwide effort, ensuring that the sacrifices of Vietnam veterans are acknowledged and remembered.
Commemoration Event Lineup
• Sunday, Feb. 23 – Conflict and Healing Lecture Series, Part One: The Psychology of Trauma: Part one of a two-part series with Dr. Judy Jacobs exploring trauma, resilience, and coping strategies, offering valuable insights for veterans, first responders, military families, and the community.
• Sunday, March 16 – Conflict and Healing Lecture Series, Part Two: Managing the Stressors of the Day: Part two of a two-part series with Dr. Judy Jacobs exploring trauma, resilience, and coping strategies, offering valuable insights for veterans, first responders, military families, and the community.
• Saturday, March 29 – National Vietnam War Veterans Day Luncheon: Veterans and their families are invited to a special luncheon featuring a keynote by Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency Director Brian Love and a pinning ceremony honoring Vietnam veterans.
• Wednesday, April 9 – Evening with Author Karl Marlantes: Echoes of the Vietnam War: Best-selling author and Vietnam veteran Karl Marlantes discusses war, service, and storytelling in an evening featuring a talk, moderated conversation, and audience Q&A.
• Wednesday, June 18 – Vietnam Through the Lens: The James “Skip” Liberty Story: In 1968, James “Skip” Liberty filmed his Vietnam War experience, later made into an award-winning feature by Tommy Dilger. Join Dilger for a screening and Q&A on the film and Liberty’s story.
• Thursday, Sept. 18 – Flying the P-3 Orion: A Vietnam War Pilot’s Story: Retired Navy Captain Randy Hotton shares firsthand accounts of Operation Market Time, flying P-3 Orion patrols to intercept enemy shipments along Vietnam’s coast.
• Sunday, November 2 – The AC-119 Gunships: From Cargo to Combat: Author Barry Levine explores the Fairchild C-119 "Flying Boxcar" and its transformation into the AC-119 gunship, highlighting its role in Vietnam and the stories of those who flew them.
• Tuesday, November 11 – Veterans Day Breakfast: This annual tradition honors local service members with a gourmet breakfast, student-made thank-you notes, musical tributes, and a keynote by Vietnam veteran and Medal of Honor recipient James McCloughan.
More Information
To learn more and register for events, visit The War Memorial’s Vietnam Commemoration page www.warmemorial.org/vietnam. Please note that registration for each event will open as the date approaches.
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