The City of Wyoming invites veterans and community members to attend its annual Veterans Breakfast at 9 a.m. at the Wyoming Senior Center (2380 DeHoop Ave SW).
Veterans are welcome to attend at no charge as a thank you for their service. All other guests are welcome with a $10 registration. The event includes a hot breakfast, guest speaker Doug Boomer, and a ceremony presented by the Wyoming Police Honor Guard.
Grand Valley State University Veterans Day Luncheon – 12 p.m.-1:30 p.m.
Location: Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus
GVSU’s Office of the President and Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies invite you to come together to honor the service and sacrifice of West Michigan and Laker veterans past and present. This year’s program explores the theme “Why I Served,” highlighting personal motivations and experiences that inspire service and leadership.
Ingrid Tighe, President of the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center and a U.S. Army veteran, will share reflections on her path of service and her continued leadership in Michigan’s business community. The program will conclude with a panel featuring veterans who will share their reflections on their service.
Grand Rapids Veterans Day Parade– 6 p.m.
All veterans are invited to walk with the United Veterans Council. Line up at the corner of Lyon and Ottawa. The parade begins at 6 p.m. with a ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park following.
Field of Flags – AnchorPoint Christian School
AnchorPoint Christian School students will set up a field of American flags in partnership with Disabled American Veterans (DAV) to honor local veterans and raise critical funds to support our nation’s ill and injured heroes.
Each donated flag represents a special veteran in someone’s life, with proceeds benefiting DAV and the charity’s free, professional services for veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors.
The flags will be displayed at AnchorPoint Christian School on Nov. 11.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Free admission for veterans on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.
Marine Corps veteran Eric Winters and his son James are not only Sons of the American Revolution, but also belong to the American Rosie the Riveter Association. (Photo Courtesy, Eric Winters)
Marine Corps veteran Eric Winters discovered later in life some very unique connections to his ancestors.
Winters, who served in the Marine Corps for eight years as a helicopter airframes mechanic, learned that his great grandmother Mattie Lois Hopper worked for the Ford Motor Company in 1942 as an aircraft mechanic in the Willow Run Michigan plant, a real life “Rosie the Riveter.”
Mattie Lois Hopper, Marine Corps veteran Eric Winters’ great grandmother, is a real-life Rosie the Riveter. (Courtesy, Eric Winters)
“As a kid, I was too young and ignorant to understand the impact of my family history,” said Winters, who was 17 years old when he joined the Marines. “After being involved with Grandpa Thomas Joseph Lannon and the Sons of the American Revolution I learned and took it to heart about how ironic it was when I joined the Marine Corps and became an aircraft mechanic. My great grandma did the same thing; we both were riveters just 60 years apart.
“I did have the privilege and honor to meet and know my great grandma, but she died before I became a Marine and an aircraft mechanic, so my grandma had to connect those dots for me. It is my intention to have my son James added as a rivet descendant under the American Rosie the Riveter.”
Female descendants of a Rosie are considered Rosebuds, whereas the male descendants are Rivets.
Sons of the American Revolution
“I remember in October 2015, I was stationed in Cyprus standing on a hillside overlooking the sunset fading over the Mediterranean Sea when my grandpa told me of his cancer diagnosis,” Winters recalled. “To keep grandpa busy while battling with his health, he became involved heavily with family history and genealogy. My grandpa traced our family ancestors back to a Reuben Clark who served in the American Revolutionary War.
Eric Winters and his Grandpa Thomas Joseph Lannon are Sons of the American Revolution. (Photo Courtesy, Eric Winters)
“Once grandpa was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution it was an easy application for myself to become a member as I only needed to link my mom to my grandpa. I am a proud papa to my son James, and I have gotten him enrolled as a member of the SAR. This makes James the 11th generation patriot ancestor descendant of the American Revolution.”
“At 10 months old, James is too young to understand this significance, but it is my hope that as he grows older I will explain to him his family history and this is a connection to his great grandfather who luckily is still around.”
After his many years of military service and also working for the U.S. Department of Defense and Department of State handling government contracts, Winters’ life has taken a turn toward helping his fellow veterans navigate through life.
“This part of my life has shaped me and my life path in many ways,” Winters explained. “Serving in the Marine Corps enhanced my leadership skills and understanding of the complexity of human factors and interpersonal relationships. This time also showcased how complexity can lead to success. It became apparent that further education was necessary for future success in life.”
Marine Corps vet Eric Winters’ Sons of the American Revolution certificate.
“Embracing the negative to appreciate the positive”
“I, for one, know I have experienced feelings of sadness, loneliness, anxiety, depression, a loss of self-worth and purpose,” continued Winters, who also volunteers for Special Olympics and helps fundraise for the AMBUCS organization for those with physical disabilities.
“I also know that I have experienced kindness, compassion, empathy, generosity, love and magic. These are the things that keep me going. We must embrace the negative to appreciate the positive blessings in our life. They are a part of our Marine core values of honor, courage and commitment.”
Winters, who has an undergraduate degree in Professional Aeronautics, moved his educational objectives toward psychology, obtaining a Master’s of Science in Leadership from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, and concurrently getting a certification in Human Happiness and Well-Being from Yale via Coursera.
“Deeply involved in helping vets with PTSD”
“I became deeply involved in a support group for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),” Winters continued. “The program was geared toward recovery, but most of the participants were only granted a limited amount of time before the VA wouldn’t allow them to participate further. I then volunteered to continue running the program for those who still wanted to participate, but had already used their time up. The psychologist who originally ran the program gave me her materials and I’ve been running it since June of 2019.”
Winters said this helped shift his focus toward helping others who were struggling with their daily lives and the effects of this disorder.
Enter his nonprofit organization, VETS
“Going to work one morning I was in a terrible car crash where a commercial truck caused a chain reaction multi-vehicle accident where five vehicles were rear-ended,” Winters explained. “As a result, being in the middle vehicle of this accident, I had a long recovery process going through months into a years’ worth of treatments.”
Winters said the rehabilitation included speech, occupational and physical therapy along with eight surgeries.
“That experience changed my career path,” he continued. “With all the pain I felt and the new physical limitations, I needed to create my own job and a new sense of purpose, basically, unless I could find a new job, one that could accommodate my needs.”
It was during his recovery that he became involved in helping other veterans with their issues.
“The problem was it was taxing on both my time and finances since both were extremely limited. Surfing the internet on how to help my situation it became apparent I had to start a nonprofit to help not only myself, but also my military brothers/sisters. That is what I do now. I am out there advocating for our military community however we can, but with a primary focus on mental health and camaraderie.”
Long-term goals with VETS
“My long-term goal for VETS is to continue to build an organization that emboldens servant leadership, sets a positive example and one that we too don’t live in vain,” Winters explained. “For now, I just want to stay humble and kind, and as my grandfather would say, “Take each day and give it your best shot.”
It was his grandfather who shared with him General Douglas MacArthur’s famous Prayer for his Son:
“Build me a son, O Lord, who will be strong enough to know when he is weak, and brave enough to face himself when he is afraid; one who will be proud and unbending in honest defeat, and humble and gentle in victory.
“Build me a son whose wishes will not take the place of deeds; a son who will know Thee—and that to know himself is the foundation-stone of knowledge.
“Lead him, I pray, not in the path of ease and comfort, but under the stress and spur of difficulties and challenge. Here let him learn to stand up in the storm; here let him learn compassion for those who fail.”
“Build me a son whose heart will be clean, whose goal will be high, a son who will master himself before he seeks to master other men, one who will reach into the future, yet never forget the past.”
“And after all these things are his, give him, I pray, enough of a sense of humor, so that he may always be serious, yet never take himself too seriously. Give him humility, so that he may always remember the simplicity of true greatness, the open mind of true wisdom, and the meekness of true strength.”
“Then I, his father, will dare to whisper, ‘I have not lived in vain.’”
Suicide Statistics
According to the latest statistics on the VA News website (2022), 17.6 veterans commit suicide each day, which totals 6,407 per year.
“These deaths are not attributable to the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, Viet-Cong or any other enemy,” Winters said. “Their deaths are a direct reflection on our collective inability to do our buddy checks. They are a reflection on our failure to give our safety briefing, to monitor/mentor ourselves and our peers. It is a reflection on us as leaders.
“Becoming a Marine is a lifelong badge of honor — one earned through dedication, sacrifice and pride. Marines are not only members of the world’s most elite fighting force, but also part of a greater community that continues to serve and uplift others long after active duty ends.”
Marine Corps Birthday Ball This year marks the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps and what better way to highlight the milestone with a celebration, said Winters, who is organizing the event. The goal of Winters and VETS is to fundraise and support the Marines while honoring past and present service members and their families. They are partnering with Creative Community Entertainment (CCE) to host the event.
“I had a sudden epiphany,” Winters said. “Milestone life events bring parties, and parties bring people and awareness. It just so happened that Marines around the world would be celebrating their birthday, so let’s host the next Marine Corps birthday ball.”
The First Annual City of Grand Rapids Marine Corps Birthday Ball will be held on Monday, Nov. 10, at the DeVos Place, 303 Monroe Ave. NW Grand Rapids. That marks the exact date the Marine Corps was founded 250 years ago; Nov. 10, 1775, in Philadelphia by Commandant Samuel Nicholas.
The Marines were the third branch of the US Armed Forces, arriving five months after the Army and one month after the Navy. Today, the Marine Corps is a component of the U.S. Department of the Navy, with nearly 200,000 active and reserve personnel.
The Skinny The event, slated from 5 to 9:30 p.m., begins with a cocktail and social hour, followed by an official ceremony at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 and dancing at 8 p.m.
The annual Wyoming Veterans Breakfast includes a hot breakfast, guest speaker Doug Boomer, and a ceremony presented by the Wyoming Police Honor Guard (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
The annual Wyoming Veterans Breakfast will take place at the Wyoming Senior Center (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
The City of Wyoming invites Veterans and community members to attend its annual Veterans Breakfast on Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 9 a.m. at the Wyoming Senior Center (2380 DeHoop Ave SW).
Veterans are welcome to attend at no charge as a thank you for their service. All other guests are welcome with a $10 registration. The event includes a hot breakfast, guest speaker Doug Boomer, and a ceremony presented by the Wyoming Police Honor Guard.
“This event is one small way we can show deep appreciation for the sacrifices our Veterans have made,” said Krashawn Martin, Director of Parks and Recreation. “It’s always a heartfelt morning where our community comes together to honor those who’ve served with pride and gratitude.”
Pre-registration is required to attend. Those wishing to participate must register by calling the Parks and Recreation Department at (616) 530-3164.
Veterans gather at a previous annual Wyoming Veterans Breakfast (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
This Veterans Day, AnchorPoint Christian students will set up a field of American flags in partnership with Disabled American Veterans to honor local veterans and raise critical funds to support our nation’s ill and injured heroes (Courtesy, DAV)
Flags will be displayed at AnchorPoint Christian School on Nov. 11
This Veterans Day, AnchorPoint Christian School students will set up a field of American flags in partnership with Disabled American Veterans (DAV) to honor local veterans and raise critical funds to support our nation’s ill and injured heroes.
Each donated flag represents a special veteran in someone’s life, with proceeds benefiting DAV and the charity’s free, professional services for veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors.
Local students show support for veterans (Courtesy, AnchorPoint Christian)
The flags will be displayed at AnchorPoint Christian School on Nov. 11.
“It’s been amazing to see our students get excited about something that honors others,” said Holly Gomez, a teacher at AnchorPoint Christian School.
“They’re realizing that even at their age, they can play a part in showing appreciation and supporting veterans in our community.”
Providing life-changing services
Headquartered in Erlanger, KY, DAV provides our nation’s veterans and their families with a range of programs, such as benefits assistance, transportation to and from VA medical appointments and more, at no cost. DAV volunteers donate nearly 2.5 million hours per year assisting veterans in their communities.
With over 1,200 chapters across the country, the charity has nearly one million members who give veterans a powerful voice at local, state and federal levels.
(Courtesy, DAV)
“Every flag in the field holds a unique story about a veteran who served and reminds their brothers- and sisters-in-arms that they are not forgotten,” said Barry Jesinoski, DAV CEO and national adjutant. “Each donation helps provide life-changing services for our nation’s veterans and their families. We are deeply touched by the community’s generosity and support.”
Wimee the Robot is a children’s PBS character that has been inspiring youth to be creative, use their imaginations and learn through technology since 2016 (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Local veteran Michael Hyacinthe created Wimee to help children learn through creativity (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Wimee the Robot is a children’s PBS character that has been inspiring youth to be creative, use their imaginations and learn through technology since February 2016.
Michael Hyacinthe, local veteran and owner of the Has Heart Coffee Shop in Veteran’s Memorial Park, created Wimee after recognizing the power of creativity through his work with veterans and his experience as a father. Hyacinthe wanted to create a character that would also help children learn through creativity.
“I’m an entrepreneur passionate about using my talents to inspire veterans, kids and all human life – individuals – to connect with creativity,” said Hyacinthe.
Think it, See it, Share it
Hyacinthe created the Wimage app, allowing children to turn stories, thoughts and ideas into images. Through text or voice, words are instantly transformed into icons. Users can also include text, create patterns, and incorporate colors and additional images.
A Wimage can be personalized and messaged to friends, shared on social media, or posted on the website for others to see.
Soon, the idea for Wimee the Robot formed. Hyacinthe reached out to his friend and puppeteer, Kevin Kammeraad, and together they worked with puppet builder Joe Emory to make Wimee, the lovable robot puppet.
(Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Hyacinthe and Kammeraad began offering local preschool students hands-on workshops, combining imagination with the innovative technology of Wimage to create collaborative visual stories. Over the years, the duo also led collaborative visual story and collaborative books workshops in elementary school classrooms.
With humor and his love of words, Wimee helps children increase literacy and storytelling skills.
The next Sesame Street
Wimee the Robot and Michael Hyacinthe engage children at an in-person event (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
The Wimage app and Wimee the Robot continued to develop and grow.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Hyacinthe and Kammeraad developed the web-based Wimee’s Words as an alternative to in-person workshops. Co-produced by Kent District Library, the interactive children’s show encourages imagination, vocabulary building and storytelling through puppetry, music and wordplay.
Through the PBS show, Wimee’s Words, Wimee the Robot reaches close to 40 million homes around the country.
“Our goal is to build the next Sesame Street for the digital age,” said Hyacinthe. “It’s a lot of work, but we’re passionate about the work that we do. We want to continue to create content to teach kids.”
Wimee’s Words viewers can join Wimee LIVE every Saturday at 11 a.m. EST on PBS.org and request songs, ask questions and suggest games to play. Wimee is also featured in the Wimee’s Words app.
Meaningful tech time
Wimee the Robot (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
The Wimee’s Words and Wimage teams consist of educators, librarians, technology developers, entrepreneurs, parents, kids and puppets who have joined together to empower all children to become producers of creative content – not just consumers of it.
The new interactive app and AI experience, Wimee’s World, was formed to incorporate the Wimage app and Wimee character, along with games, videos and conversations with the AI robot (Wimee).
Wimee’s World provides kids meaningful tech time by giving them the opportunity to become visual communicators and more creative producers using technology.
“Wimee’s World is designed with safety and creativity in mind, providing a secure environment for kids to explore, create and interact,” states the Wimee TV website.
Wimee provides a fun and safe environment for children to learn (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“Parents can have peace of mind knowing that their children are engaging with content that is both entertaining and educational.”
Explore More sheets provide additional information and activities designed and tested by educators and families to spark imagination and curiosity.
The Wimee Creates and Wimee Learnsearly learning concept books, written by Stephanie Kammeraad and published by Zonderkidz/Harper Collins, are another great resource for families.
“Every day is a new chance to explore, learn and create together as a family.” (wimee.tv)
Purpose, empowerment and healing
Educating children through Wimee has helped Hyacinthe heal (Courtesy, Michael Hyacinthe)
Hyacinthe’s journeys with Wimee’s World and Has Heart may be separate ventures, but both utilize creativity to empower and heal individuals.
As a veteran battling PTSD, Hyacinthe calls the mission of Has Heart and Wimee the Robot his therapy.
“There’s something really unique about veterans,” said Hyacinthe. “We tend to want to serve. If you give us a platform where we can continue to serve, they will find a medium to heal.
“And for me, this is continuing to serve through connecting veterans and giving them hope, giving them purpose through Has Heart, and by educating kids through Wimee.”
Resource links
Find out if Wimee the Robot will be visiting near you! Click here for Wimee’s event schedule.
More information about Wimee the Robot and additional Wimee resources can be found here.
More information about Has Heart and how you can help support veterans can be found here.
American Legion Post 154 Roger B. Chaffee is hosting a Mobility Scooter-Wheelchair Competition to commemorate the Legion 154’s new electric handicap doors (Courtesy, American Legion)
American Legion Post 154 Roger B. Chaffee is hosting a Mobility Scooter-Wheelchair Competition to commemorate the Legion’s new electric handicap doors. Beginning at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, participants can expect an afternoon of food and fun.
American Legion Post 154 Mobility Scooter Competition (Courtesy, American Legion)
The event is open to the public and includes prizes for: Best Score on Ballon Obstacle Course, Fastest Time on Scooter Straight Course and Best Overall Trim Package (includes Best Rider Costume, Best Ride Decorations, Best Pit Crew Spirt and Most Unique/Useful Adaptive Aftermarket Equipment). All abilities compete for prizes – including bragging rights and winner trophies.
There will be three independent judges for all competitions. Judges will be announced the day of the event.
Registration as a competitor, pit crew member, attendee, volunteer or vendor can be found here. Competition rules can be found here.
More information about the Mobility Scooter Competition can be found here.
Disability awareness
“Many of our members are veterans or family members who need a bit more assistance than in the past, whether that’s to enter the building, or to carry in a crock-pot for an event like our annual Chili Cook-off,” says Butch Hogan, Post 154 Facilities Manager. “So, upgrading the doors was the right thing to help all, including those with limited mobility.”
American Legion Post 154 Mobility Scooter Competition (Courtesy, American Legion)
The competition event is being held to celebrate both the new Post 154 accessibility and to increase disability awareness.
According to Ken Stockel, Co-chair of the Scooter Competition, “We’re designing the course will all abilities in mind. Although some may compete in a mobility scooter, power wheelchair, or regular wheelchair, we are also having an obstacle competition for able-bodied participants to compete—in a WHEELCHAIR!
“As most servicemen/women learn early in their military training, when you walk in someone else’s ‘boots’ is when you develop empathy – and that’s where disability awareness begins.”
About American Legion Post 154
The American Legion is the largest U.S. veterans organization with more than 1.6 million members who strengthen the nation through programs, services and advocacy for those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, youth and communities.
Post 154 is named after Roger B. Chaffee (Feb. 15, 1935 – Jan. 27, 1967), an officer in the United States Navy, and died with fellow astronauts Gus Grissom and Ed White during a pre-launch test for the Apollo I mission.
Located in Veterans Memorial Park and occupying the historic building that originally served as the offices for the West Michigan Tourist & Resort Association and later used as annex offices for the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, the small veteran-owned café is doing big things.
The HAS HEART Coffee Shop is located in Veterans Memorial Park (Courtesy, HAS HEART)
HAS HEART is a nonprofit veteran-and-designer collaboration that represents hundreds of veterans’ stories and messages through meaningful design creations. The inviting atmosphere is created by a blend of coffee and a mission to give back to those who served our country.
In fact, it was over coffee that Michael Hyacinthe, an 8-year U.S. Navy veteran, and Tyler Way, an artist/designer, met and realized the need to connect their two worlds.
HAS HEART founders Michael Hyacinthe (left) and Tyler Way (Courtesy, HAS HEART)
Finding purpose amidst tragedy
Originally from the Bronx in New York, Hyacinthe served as a U.S. Navy Seabee combat specialist after he graduated high school. Like many veterans, however, Hyacinthe found himself adrift after returning home from military service.
After driving a cab in New York City for two years, Hyacinthe moved to West Michigan where he married and began a family. During that time, a military serviceman Hyacinthe knew was deployed and killed in combat.
Reeling emotionally, Hyacinthe decided to honor all veterans killed in service – and chose Grand Rapids to lay the groundwork.
“This was around the time ArtPrize was really becoming a big thing in Grand Rapids, and I saw how the city came together through art,” said Hyacinthe. “So I came here.”
Power in creativity
“Total Sacrifice” t-shirt designed by a U.S. Marine and Tyler Way (Courtesy, HAS HEART)
In 2011, Hyacinthe met a wounded U.S. Marine at a local veterans event. The Marine was paralyzed from the neck down and unable to speak due to injuries sustained in Iraq. However, he was able to share his story with Hyacinthe through an alphanumeric communication code translated on a clipboard by his full-time nurse.
Upon learning of the Marine’s passion for graphic t-shirts, Hyachinthe put plans in motion that would allow the young veteran to design his own.
“Recognizing the power in providing this wounded Marine the opportunity to design, we created a t-shirt for him called ‘Total Sacrifice,’” said Hyacinthe. “He designed it by using a very unique alphanumeric code where he had to blink. A certain number of blinks represented a certain letter, and that’s how we were able to design his t-shirt called ‘Total Sacrifice.’”
Hyacinthe and Way began designing t-shirts and donating the proceeds to various veteran organizations. By 2012, however, they had shifted their focus to center more on the veterans.
“We said, let’s pivot away from designing t-shirts ourselves and empower these veterans who have been wounded to design,” said Hyacinthe. “That’s when we decided to connect them with creative designers.”
More and more veterans began expressing their desire to create t-shirt designs. It was then that Hyacinthe and Way knew they needed to empower veterans across the U.S. to utilize the power of creativity to heal. That realization inspired them to create HAS HEART.
U.S. Navy Veteran Darrel Charles works with Miami-based graphic designer Brittany Ballinger to create the design “L’Union” (Courtesy, HAS HEART)
“Many of these veterans are disabled and can’t write,” said Hyacinthe. “These designers have the education and the experience of being professional designers, but many of them don’t know the military world because rarely are many of us connected.”
The HAS HEART Coffee Shop officially opened its doors in Veterans Memorial Park on Nov. 11, 2023 – Veterans Day.
Originally, the historical building housing HAS HEART was used solely for showcasing veterans’ art. But then…coffee.
“We decided to open up HAS HEART Coffee Shop where you can come and get a cup of coffee,” said Hyacinthe. “Veterans get a free cup of coffee. Then [patrons] can experience the designs created by the veterans.”
Approximately 30-40 veterans visit the HAS HEART Coffee Shop daily.
HAS HEART Coffee Shop (Courtesy, HAS HEART)
HAS HEART Coffee Shop (Courtesy, HAS HEART)
HAS HEART Coffee Shop (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
HAS HEART Coffee Shop (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
HAS HEART inception timeline (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
An outlet for healing and rebuilding
Hyacinthe dreams of HAS HEART one day becoming a retail space with all merchandise created by American veterans.
“Our goal is to one day open up a full retail store where people can come in and purchase products that were created by heroes who sacrificed,” said Hyacinthe. “Many of us come back home and we want to pursue the American dream of wealth and success, so we want to provide them that outlet.”
2024 ArtPrize public vote-winning entry, “Dynamic Sunset,” by Purple Heart veteran John Katerberg (Courtesy, HAS HEART)
The military, Hyacinthe said, completely strips you of your individuality. “You are now part of something bigger than yourself, and you need to recognize that you are not the most important piece of this thing.”
However, Hyacinthe continued, when someone leaves the military, regaining that sense of individuality is vital.
“It’s what allows you to survive in the world where you need to be an individual, because no one is telling you what to do,” said Hyacinthe.
That disconnect, coupled with trauma experienced through combat, PTSD, and physical and mental injuries, makes it difficult for veterans to re-acclimate to civilian life.
Hyacinthe believes creativity is a path of healing for many veterans because it gives them the ability to be heard.
Designer Chuck Anderson (left) helped U.S. Air Force Veteran Israel Del Toro (D.T.) design “Thru the Fire” (Courtesy, HAS HEART and Terry Johnston)
“To be heard, and to get what’s in your mind out into something visual so that you can see it, you can finally control it,” said Hyacinthe. “It’s the expression that this is real.”
As a veteran battling PTSD, Hyacinthe calls HAS HEART’s mission his therapy.
“There’s something really unique about veterans,” said Hyacinthe. “We tend to want to serve. If you give us a platform where we can continue to serve, they will find a medium to heal. And for me, this is continuing to serve through connecting veterans and giving them hope, giving them purpose through HAS HEART.”
Help empower veterans
Financial support is essential to the HAS HEART mission. Many veterans are flown into Grand Rapids to work with HAS HEART designers, and each HAS HEART veteran receives a stipend to accommodate their time.
“They’re not just all local, they’re from all over,” said Hyacinthe. “We’ve worked with hundreds of veterans.”
Raising awareness of HAS HEART’s mission, Hyacinthe went on to say, happens when people share their story online, purchase veteran-made products, make a donation, or come to the cafe and acknowledge and experience the storytelling being done.
Veterans and artists interested in participating in HAS HEART’s mission can contact Hyacinthe and Way here.
This week of remembrance is an opportunity to express gratitude to the few remaining members of the Greatest Generation and ensure their sacrifices and stories are never forgotten (Greatest Generation Day Flyover 2020 – Courtesy, GGCC)
A heartfelt tribute to the Greatest Generation will take place in Grand Rapids, MI during the week of Sept. 1-7. This event marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and honors the millions of veterans and citizens who made sacrifices to ensure a world free of oppression.
This week of remembrance is an opportunity to express gratitude to the few remaining members of the Greatest Generation and ensure their sacrifices and stories are never forgotten.
“People that are of the greatest generation are 98 years or older, so we don’t have much time to have them with us and be able to honor them anymore,” said Brian Hauenstein, Co-Chair of the Greatest Generation Celebration Committee. “I see this as our last opportunity.”
What to expect
Though the first Greatest Generation Celebration (GGC) in 2020 attempt had to be severely modified due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2025 Celebration is slated to produce a full line-up of events.
General MacArthur signing aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on Sept. 2, 1945 (Courtesy, GGCC)
GGC signature events include an Honor Parade and Wings of Honor flyover on Sept. 1 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in downtown Grand Rapids; a Bell Ringing Ceremony on Sept. 1 at 8:08 p.m. to commemorate the official end of World War II; a Victory Celebration at the Air Zoo on Sept. 6 from 6-9 p.m.; Perspectives on the Greatest Generation lecture series featuring keynote speakers Rick Atkinson, Garrett Graff, Sir Antony Beevor and Susan Eisenhower on Sept. 2-4; and more.
A free pop-up exhibit of Greatest Generation photographs and artifacts will also be open to the public in the Ford Museum lobby from Aug. 23-Sept. 7.
Among the artifacts featured will be a mess hall table from the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, a piece of the USS Missouri that was gifted to Hauenstein’s grandfather from Washington, numerous West Michigan-made relics, and several stories of local heroes.
“We can come and pick them up,” said Hauenstein. “Ride Your Way is a partner in this, and they are willing to go anywhere in West Michigan to pick people up, bring them to the parade and bring them back home.”
Trolley buses and World War II era vehicles are available for veterans to sit in during the parade. After the parade, veterans will be taken to a VIP tent to relax and visit with parade attendees.
Hauenstein urges veterans and their families to consider attending. “I know that everybody that goes there will just feel a lot of love.”
Leading the parade as Grand Marshals are two World War II veterans, Eugene Khorey, age 99, of the 86th “Blackhawk” Infantry Division and Maxine Lay Boeve, age 101, a trailblazing wartime machinist.
Keeping legacies alive
“The parade that never happened.” Grand Rapids never held an end-of-war celebration parade. Instead, residents took to the streets and cheered – 1945 (Courtesy, Robinson Studio & GR History Center)
The Greatest Generation Celebration Committee is led by Joel Westphal, Deputy Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum and Professor of Global History at GRCC, Co-Chairs Brian Hauenstein and Neil Kirby, and honorary chairmen Hank Meijer and former Secretary of Energy, Spencer Abraham.
Hauenstein joined the GGC Committee because he believes in the importance of keeping the legacies of the Greatest Generation alive.
Hauenstein’s grandfather, Ralph W. Hauenstein, was Eisenhower’s Chief of Intelligence of European Theater of Operations and well-known in the Grand Rapids community. His legacy lives on in many ways, but Hauenstein said his grandfather’s legacy must also live on through him.
“I’m honored to do that, and this is one other way to do that,” said Hauenstein.
Group of boys carrying a sailor on their shoulders while walking down Monroe Avenue and celebrating the end of World War II – 1945 (Courtesy, Robinson Studio & GR History Center)
Hauenstein went on to say that a big focus of the GGC is connecting the youngest of our generations to the World War II Greatest Generation heroes.
Throughout his life, Hauenstein’s grandfather recounted the time he escorted a Civil War veteran around Grand Rapids in 1920.
“He spoke about what an amazing experience that was, to spend a day with this Civil War hero,” said Hauenstein. “That helped to shape him, who he was.”
Recognizing the impact that encounter had on his grandfather, Hauenstein arranged for the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and the Daughters of the American Revolution to participate in the Honor Parade.
“We’re hoping that we can get them to engage with the Greatest Generation while they’re there and create that similar mark on their future lives,” Hauenstein said.
How you can get involved!
Hauenstein says the GGC Committee has not had difficulty identifying volunteers for the weeklong celebration, nor identifying organizations to provide financial backing. In fact, over 30 organizations have stepped forward to offer assistance.
The GGC Committee is seeking 1930-1941 era drivable vehicles for the Honor Parade (Courtesy, Pat Moll)
“We’ve been very fortunate,” says Hauenstein. “There is such a lineup of organizations that have made a decision to support [this].”
Hauenstein said the GGC Committee has approximately 20 Greatest Generation era (1930-1941) vehicles being showcased in the parade, but would welcome more.
“We want this to be a 1945-style parade,” says Hauenstein. “You will see a 1941 Studebaker, a Wildcat [airplane], things like that. We know they’re out there…and we want them in the parade.”
Those with vehicles from the Greatest Generation era can contact the GGC Committee at ggcelebration25@gmail.com.
Those who would like to honor a family member from the Greatest Generation with a tribute board can visit the GGC website for details. Tribute boards will be carried in the Honor Parade by volunteers.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority will be joined by the Mid-Michigan Honor Flight to support a “Tour of Honor” for Veterans to visit Washington D.C. This two-day event will include a tour of the memorials in Washington D.C., dedicated to their service and sacrifices.
Community members are invited to attend the Welcome Home Reception, which is a public event held at the Airport on Wednesday, April 30 at 8:40 p.m., and is an opportunity to greet and thank Veterans for their service. Those wanting to participate are encouraged to bring signs and American flags and should plan to stand in a parade line throughout the terminal building.
Casting Light: Photographs of the Vietnam War, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum’s latest showcase exhibition, captures the realities of one of the most turbulent periods in American history.
Open to the public since April 21, the exhibition features iconic and thought-provoking images taken by photojournalists and military photographers.
The “Casting Light” exhibit is an opportunity to reflect on a pivotal era in our nation’s history (Courtesy, GRFM)
Through the lens of those who witnessed it firsthand, Casting Light brings to life the experiences of those who served, protested, and endured the consequences of the Vietnam War. Among those photojournalists was President Ford’s White House photographer, David Hume Kennerly, who won a Pulitzer Prize for his efforts in 1972.
“This exhibit is an opportunity to reflect on a pivotal era in our nation’s history,” said Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum. “President Ford played a crucial role in the final chapter of the war and managing the aftermath.
“Through these photographs, we hope to foster a deeper understanding of the War’s impact.”
A comprehensive and powerful firsthand look
The showcase exhibit is composed of free-standing text panels and iconic photographs that provide a moving, intimate and powerful look at the Vietnam War. A comprehensive examination of the conflict, the photographs capture how presidents grappled with the reality of war as they made executive decisions, soldiers on the ground in Vietnam and the American public’s changing responses to the conflict as they processed the war at home.
During the conflict, the U.S. military allowed more documentation than ever before, including by the military’s own photographers and videographers. Thousands of images were captured.
U.S. troops waiting for the arrival of President Johnson at Cam Ranh Bay, South Vietnam on Oct. 26, 1966 (Courtesy, GRFM)
These journalists, photographers, and film crews had considerable access to ground soldiers, officers, and battlefields. These firsthand accounts in turn influenced public opinion.
Images of the conflict far from home appeared on the front pages of newspapers, magazine covers and television screens across the country, underscoring its human toll. Dubbed “The Living Room War,” Americans back home watched the fighting unfold on their television screens.
Casting Light: Photographs of the Vietnam War will be on display through Dec. 14. More exhibit information can be found here.
Additional free programs
In conjunction with the exhibition, the Ford Museum invites the public to attend a series of free programs exploring key themes surrounding the Vietnam War, including the challenges faced by Vietnamese refugees, the continued aftershocks and the lasting impact of the War on American society.
A full schedule of programs and registration details can be found here.
Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Fredrik Logevall will visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum to discuss a fresh viewpoint on the War and its legacy (Courtesy, GRFM)
It has been 50 years since the guns fell silent on the battlefields in Vietnam. Yet many people still wonder how to think about the War’s origins, escalation, ultimate resolution, aftereffects and its continued resonance in U.S. politics and society today.
Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Fredrik Logevall will visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum on Wednesday, April 30 to discuss a fresh viewpoint on the War and its legacy via his book, Embers of War.
This event begins at 6:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged and can be completed here. A book signing will follow the public program at 7:30 p.m.
About Fredrik Logevall
Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author Fredrik Logevall (Courtesy, GRFM)
Fredrik Logevall is the Laurence D. Belfer Professor of History and International Affairs at Harvard University. He is the author or editor of eleven books, including most recently JFK: Coming of Age in the American Century, 1917-1956 (Random House, 2020), which won the Elizabeth Longford Prize and was a New York Times Notable Book of the Year.
His book Embers of War: The Fall of an Empire and the Making of America’s Vietnam (Random House, 2012), won the Pulitzer Prize for History, the Parkman Prize, the Arthur Ross Book Award and the American Library in Paris Book Award.
Logevall’s essays and reviews have appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, The Times Literary Supplement,The New Republic, Politico, Daily Beast, the London Review of Books, and Foreign Affairs among other publications.
A native of Stockholm, Sweden, Logevall lives in Cambridge, MA.
Event and live stream registration
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library in Ann Arbor will also be hosting an Embers of War book discussion on April 29 at 6:30 p.m. Registration for the Library event can be found here.
Those unable to attend in person can live stream the lecture via Zoom on April 29. Registration for the Zoom option can be found here.
France Hoang’s powerful presentation recounts his journey of personal perseverance and how America’s promise of opportunity can transform lives across generations (Courtesy, GRFM)
Veteran and entrepreneur France Hoang will visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum on April 24 at 6:30 p.m. to share his remarkable story, From Saigon to Service: One Refugee’s Story of Gratitude and Giving Back.
In this powerful presentation, Hoang recounts his journey: arriving in America as a child refugee, attending West Point, serving in a war zone, advising at the White House, and ultimately coming full circle to help evacuate Afghan allies during America’s withdrawal. His story is not just a testament to personal perseverance, but a living example of how America’s promise of opportunity can transform lives across generations.
Hoang will also be sharing his story at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library in Ann Arbor on April 23 at 6:30 p.m. For those unable to attend the April 23 event, a Zoom option is available.
(Courtesy, GRFM)
“We are honored to welcome France Hoang to the Ford Library and Museum,” said Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. “His inspiring talk, exploring themes of compassion, courage, and duty, demonstrates the ripple effect of President Ford’s values and leadership during Operation New Life, which welcomed Vietnamese refugees to the United States.”
Both programs are free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged.
A life of service
Hoang is an accomplished entrepreneur who has helped build companies, generating over $600 million in combined sales and employing more than 1,200 professionals across various sectors. He holds degrees from West Point, Washburn University, and Georgetown University Law Center, where he graduated magna cum laude.
Hoang currently serves as Co-Founder and CEO of BoodleBox, developing innovative AI technology platforms, and as a Distinguished Visiting Lecturer at West Point and as a Senior Fellow with the National Security Institute at George Mason University. He also serves on the boards of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund and No One Left Behind.
Registration Links
For more information and to register for these events, click here. Registration for the April 23 Zoom can be found here.
Gerald’s Law Act was named after late Michigan veteran Gerald “Jerry” Elliott of Kingsford who did not receive VA burial benefits after he passed away at home (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The legislation, called Gerald’s Law Act, was named after late Michigan veteran Gerald “Jerry” Elliott of Kingsford who did not receive VA burial benefits after he passed away at home.
Gerald’s Law Act ensures all veterans can be laid to rest with dignity and respect (Michigan Veterans Homes)
“Gerald Elliot is one of far too many veterans whose families were denied VA burial benefits because they chose to receive hospice care at their home instead of a VA facility,” said Senator Peters, a member of the Armed Services Committee and former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve.
“As Americans, we have a sacred responsibility to ensure that veterans and their families have the support they need, especially during hard times like the passing of a loved one. This law honors those who have served and sacrificed for our country in uniform, and helps make sure all veterans can be laid to rest with dignity and respect.”
A significant victory
Veterans can now spend their final days at home (Courtesy photo)
Under current law, the VA will cover nearly $1,000 toward burial and funeral expenses if the veteran is hospitalized at the VA at the time of death. This legislation would update the department’s policy and ensure that veterans aren’t penalized for spending their last days in the comfort of their homes or other settings.
Denise Formolo, the Veterans Service Officer for Dickinson County, MI, raised this issue with Senator Peters’ office and shared the Elliott family’s heartbreaking story – inspiring the legislation.
“It has been a great honor to collaborate with Senator Peters and Congressman Bergman in passing Gerald’s Law as part of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Improvement Act,” said Denise Formolo, Veteran Service Officer at Dickinson County Veterans Affairs. “This is a significant victory for our veterans and their families.
“Veterans now have the option to spend their final days at home, surrounded by their loved ones, without the concern of losing burial benefits for their families.”
Support for Gerald’s Law Act
The Gerald’s Law Act is also supported by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, National Association of Veteran Service Organizations, AMVETS, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), With Honor, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, Gold Star Wives and The Independence Fund.
WKTV Community Media, one of the nation’s oldest continuously operated community television stations, today announced the launch of “Create, Inspire, Connect,” the first major fundraising campaign in its 50-year history.
The initiative aims to strengthen WKTV’s unique role as the only organization providing comprehensive media services that connect and strengthen Wyoming, Kentwood and greater Grand Rapids communities.
“Asking community to invest in our unique services”
“For half a century, WKTV has filled critical gaps in our local media landscape, from providing Spanish-language news coverage to helping nonprofits amplify their impact through professional media production,” said Tom Norton, WKTV Executive Director and GM. “As traditional funding sources shift due to cord-cutting, we’re asking our community to invest in these essential services that no other organization provides.”
Marge’s Donut Den.
Marge’s Donut Den and Wyoming Community Foundation early supporters
The campaign has already gained early momentum, with a $1,925 grant from the Wyoming Community Foundation supporting WKTV’s Veterans Voices project and a $1,000 contribution from local business leader Marge’s Donut Den. These initial investments demonstrate how community support directly strengthens vital programs that preserve local stories and connect neighbors.
Wyoming Community Foundation.
WKTV’s community-driven media services include:
The WKTV Journal, the area’s only dedicated source for hyper-local news coverage
Professional media services that help local nonprofits multiply their community impact
Veterans Voices, preserving irreplaceable local veterans’ stories in partnership with GVSU
Soundbites en Español, the region’s only Spanish-language local news coverage
Youth media education programs that empower the next generation of community storytellers
Free access to media production tools and training that give community members a voice
“When community members support WKTV, they’re not just sustaining a media organization – they’re investing in a platform that amplifies every aspect of community life,” Norton said. “Today’s challenge is to strengthen our unique role in building community through media while embracing new platforms and technologies that expand our impact.”
“Create, Inspire, Connect” campaign supports:
Continued free access to media production facilities that enable community-driven content
Expansion of community partnerships that amplify nonprofit and civic impact
Enhanced hyper-local news coverage that keeps our community informed and connected
Youth media education programs that build tomorrow’s community leaders
Technology upgrades that expand the reach of community voices
Community members can multiply their impact on local media by visiting www.wktv.org or contacting Josh Weston at josh@wktv.org.
About WKTV Community Media
Founded in 1974, WKTV serves the communities of Wyoming and Kentwood from its 10,000-square-foot facility on Clyde Park Ave., which features two studios, multiple edit bays, public spaces, and classrooms for media instruction. As the region’s only comprehensive community media center, WKTV operates with six full-time staff members and over 400 active volunteers, providing unique platforms for diverse local voices and fostering civic engagement through innovative, community-driven media.
For individuals and organizations looking to make a difference in the lives of veterans this holiday season, consider supporting Michigan Veteran Homes’ Holiday Wish Lists which highlight much-needed items to help veteran members this holiday season.
Donation details
Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids (MVHGR) is seeking monetary donations to support the charitable support fund which is used to enhance the quality of life for veteran members.
Monetary donations can be made at Support MVH or checks can be written to MVHGR and mailed to 2950 Monroe Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505. Please indicate the fund designation “Charitable Support Fund” in the memo section of the check.
A MVH Wish List delivery is made possible by donations from the community (Courtesy, MVH)
The Home is also seeking in-kind donations such as Go!Bus ADA tickets, postage stamps, snacks and adult fishing poles (please limit to four).
Donation drop-off and online options
For more information or to coordinate a time to drop off in-kind donations, please contact Volunteer and Donations Coordinator Gretchen Muir at muirg@michigan.gov or 616-840-3001.
Updated wish list items and donation tips may be viewed online at MVHGR Holiday Wish List. You can also direct ship requested items from the Home’s Amazon Wish List.
Josh Weston WKTV Fundraising and Outreach Specialist josh@wktv.org
WKTV is proud to announce receiving a grant from the Wyoming Community Foundation to help continue its mission of sharing stories of local veterans in West Michigan.
The grant will be used specifically for a WKTV program called Veterans Voices, an initiative designed to support GVSU’s Veterans History Project and to expand the reach of its impact.
“The Wyoming Community Foundation has recognized what a valuable asset WKTV’s Veterans Voices project is,” said Tom Norton, WKTV Executive Director/GM. “For that we are very proud and grateful that they have chosen to start this important project off with this seed grant. Our goal is now to ask the surrounding community to step in and support veterans’ stories.”
A local veteran shares a story with the GVSU Veterans History Project at WKTV.
A local veteran shares a story with the GVSU Veterans History Project at WKTV.
A local veteran shares a story with the GVSU Veterans History Project at WKTV.
Key activities of Veterans Voices:
Editing archives of over 200 interviews into engaging, shareable content for social media
Continuing to provide state-of-the-art studio and equipment for veteran interviews
Enhancing outreach efforts to involve more veterans, particularly those from recent conflicts
GVSU and the Library of Congress
For more than 12 years, WKTV has been a proud partner of Grand Valley State University and the Veterans History Project. This collaboration has resulted in the production of more than 200 in-depth oral history interviews, preserving and sharing the stories of U.S. veterans from World War II to present-day conflicts.
GVSU, in turn, works in partnership with the Library of Congress Veterans History Project as one of a small number of archiving partners across the country, posting their interview videos and other materials on a website that is part of the Special Collections of the GVSU Library.
“Truly special” veterans interviews
Every Veterans History Project interview captures something truly special. Sometimes it’s a harrowing story of survival and triumph over insurmountable odds; more often, it’s a relatable and self-deprecating anecdote of personal growth.
Expanding the audience
The problem is, while these interviews are available through GVSU and the Library of Congress, very few people see them. It’s unrealistic to expect the general public to browse historical archives, much less to watch the interviews themselves, most of which run between 90 to 120 minutes in length.
$5,000 goal
WKTV is seeking $5,000 in funding to support this project over the next two years. This investment enables the station to draw from its archive of over 200 veterans oral histories to produce and publish 50 short-form highlight reels annually, and significantly expand the impact of this vital service.
As a community media center celebrating 50 years of service to Wyoming, Kentwood, and the surrounding region, WKTV has a reputation for providing a platform to the voices and stories that make up our community.
Impact goes far beyond historical preservation…
The impact of Veterans Voices extends far beyond historical preservation. Many veterans report profound gratitude for the opportunity to share their stories, and their narratives serve as invaluable educational resources, enriching our society’s collective understanding of history and the human impact of military service.
WKTV is excited about the potential of this partnership and the positive impact it can have on veterans, their families, students, researchers and the wider community.
If you are interested in helping WKTV achieve its goal with supporting Veterans Voices, please email Josh Weston, WKTV Fundraising and Outreach Specialist at josh@wktv.org
Joshua Molyneux’s interest in the military formed at a young age, thanks to time spent with his dad bonding over a cherished pastime.
Molyneux fondly recalls attending the Wings Over Muskegon air show every summer with his dad to watch military aircraft maneuvers. Over the years, his interest in the military and a career serving his country grew until he finally answered the call, enlisting in 2005 at age 18.
“I joined the Michigan Army National Guard to serve, to gain valuable experience and to help pay for college,” said Molyneux. “I had no idea that decision would open a door to a very rewarding full-time military career and that I’d be in it for the long haul.”
Meeting the future
When Molyneux returned home after his first deployment in 2009, he attended a military family event.While there, he spoke with a Davenport University admissions representative and began pursuit of a college degree.
Molyneux began taking classes full-time at the W.A. Lettinga Grand Rapids Campus in 2009, switching to online classes part-time to better balance his professional and personal life. In spring 2022, he earned a BBA in Human Resource Management.
The Sergeant First Class is currently employed as a full-time active duty soldier for the Michigan Army National Guard (MIARNG) and is stationed at the Belmont Armory with the 63rd Troop Command.
Davenport’s in-person and online classes allowed Molyneux the flexibility he needed to obtain his degree (Courtesy, U.S. Army/Sgt. 1st Class Jasmine L. Flowers)
Active duty education
While he is thankful to be stationed close to home, Molyneux has spent plenty of time thousands of miles away in foreign lands.
“I served in a Cavalry Regiment in direct combat operations in both Iraq (Operation Iraqi Freedom) and Afghanistan (Operation Enduring Freedom) in a variety of leadership positions as a Cavalry Scout by MOS (19D3O),” he said.
Molyneux currently utilizes his Davenport degree as senior Army Human Resource Specialist for the 63rd Troop. He also serves as the brigade operations non-commissioned officer, assistant security manager and defense travel system reviewing official.
“I am heavily involved in the planning and execution of major operations and training events for Michigan’s combat Brigade, including COVID-19 response missions, the Operation Northern Strike annual combined arms joint exercise at the Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center,” said Molyneux.
Preparing to excel
Molyneux’s Davenport education and Army experience have complemented each other well (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Molyneux loves the Army and the challenges his positions bring. “I find challenging myself and making a real difference to be extremely rewarding,” he said. “I have also been able to see and do things that most people will never experience, and I’m thankful for that opportunity.”
Molyneux said his Davenport education and his Army experience have complemented each other well.
“The operational, strategic and leadership training and experience I have gained working in the Army have given me unique insight into the corporate portion of my studies,” said Molyneux.
“And the knowledge I’ve gained from my Davenport classes helped prepare me to excel in my current positions with the Army.”
It comes as no surprise to Molyneux that Davenport is recognized as a Veteran-Friendly School by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) at the Gold level, the highest level of recognition.
Molyneux said he felt supported by Davenport from the very start. “Davenport did a great job at vetting my military credit equivalency, processing my benefits and taking care of funding. Everything was a breeze. Davenport is awesome to its vets.”
Veteran support
Davenport offers tuition discounts, fully participates in the G.I. Bill and gives generous credit for experience and education gained in the military. It also has a Student Veterans of America (SVA) group on campus, with which Molyneux is heavily involved.
Molyneux saw value in the SVA organization and brought it back to life at Davenport after the pandemic (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The SVA is the premier organization leading service, research, programs and advocacy for veterans in higher education. Its mission is to act as a catalyst for student veteran success by providing resources, network support and advocacy to, through, and beyond higher education.
Davenport’s SVA chapter dissolved during the pandemic, but Molyneux worked to bring it back to life, even stepping up as president this past April.
Sharing knowledge and experiences can help improve student’s lives (Courtesy photo)
“I wanted to give back to Davenport and its veteran population by helping to bridge the gap between benefits and the veterans who use them,” said Molyneux.
The group meets in person the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. in the Student Veteran’s Room, located on the second floor of the Academic Building. Veterans can also join remotely by using the “Discord” app.
“We discuss ways they can improve the lives of Davenport’s student and staff veterans on and off campus by harnessing our combined experience and connections,” said Molyneux.
Molyneux encourages all Davenport veterans to join the SVA.
“We are a group of like-minded individuals who harness our connections and network to help each other to improve our quality of life,” said Molyneux. “Many of us have navigated different things, and we are all willing to share our knowledge and experiences and lend a hand to our fellow student vets.
“But most importantly, we give each other a feeling of having a group where we belong and can connect with.”
Molyneux plans to graduate with an MBA in leadership strategies in 2025. “I will use my new degree to help elevate my military career. After I retire, I’d like to utilize my degree in the civilian sector in some capacity.”
Learn more!
Click here to learn more about how Davenport supports its veterans.
Gadberry works to ensure veterans are recognized for their service (Courtesy, Hospice of Michigan)
Wyoming resident Ryan Gadberry served four years (2013-2017) in the U.S. Marines. While no longer on active-duty, the local veteran continues serving by bringing comfort and recognition to hospice veterans during their end-of-life journey.
Already serving as Property Manager for Hospice of Michigan, Gadberry stepped in to help when he heard Hospice of Michigan needed veteran volunteers.
For the past eight months, Gadberry has used his military experiences to make a meaningful impact.
“I am more than happy to give back,” said Gadberry. “It’s very heartwarming; it makes you feel like you’re doing something really important.”
Camaraderie and compassion
Hospice of Michigan strives to deliver the holistic, loving care veterans deserve. Veteran volunteers make a difference in the lives of others by sitting and visiting with fellow veteran patients.
Gadberry said there is a specific connection between veterans due to shared military training and history.
Wyoming veterans gather at an annual local breakfast (Courtesy, City of Wyoming)
“You can meet a total stranger and, once you find out they are a fellow service person, there is an immediate connection,” said Gadberry. “You’re no longer a stranger.”
That connection has been frequently proven, but one instance made a lasting impact on Hospice of Michigan Volunteer Program Manager, Lauren Becker-Barkman.
A lifelong Marine within hours of the end of his life journey was restless, repeatedly reaching and calling out.
“There was no peace in this man’s world at this time,” said Becker-Barkman. “He’s uncomfortable, he’s restless.”
Veterans can make a difference in each other’s lives (Courtesy photo)
The hospice team asked a veteran volunteer to sit with the veteran in hopes of making a difference in his end-of-life journey.
“By the time [the volunteer] left,” said Becker-Barkman, “he was comfortable, he was at peace. He wasn’t calling out, he wasn’t reaching out.”
The veteran passed within a few hours – and what was said during that time together remains unknown.
“We don’t know what was said or what passed between these two veterans, but whatever it was allowed this man to find peace and to be able to go on peacefully,” said Becker-Barkman. “That’s the kind of connection you can’t make up. The impact is immeasurable.”
Gadberry personally cultivates that special connection with hospice veterans through empathy and understanding.
A desire to serve
Gadberry is thankful for his time in the Marines (Courtesy, Hospice of Michigan)
A first-generation serviceman in his family, Gadberry always knew he wanted to be a Marine.
“Even when I was a kid, that was the plan. Finish high school, join the Marines. That’s what I did.”
Gadberry served as an intelligence analyst, working with several overseas ops – and has no regrets.
“I love that I did it; it definitely turned me into the man I am today.”
And that man gets a visible bounce in his step when meeting fellow veterans.
An unexpected impact
“He gets a little pep in his step knowing that he’s going to meet a veteran,” said Becker-Barkman, adding that Gadberry is also asked to read poems or talk about the impact of veteran connections often. “He’s incredibly humble about being a veteran himself…so to know that he’s also getting some recognition and that he’s continuing to make an impact, it’s really cool.”
A local woman raises her voice in song at a vet pinning ceremony (Courtesy, Hospice of Michigan)
Gadberry said that volunteering has impacted him in ways he didn’t expect – especially the pinning ceremonies.
“What surprised me was the impact it has on the families,” said Gadberry. “It’s overwhelming to see. It’s important to make that veteran feel remembered and seen, but they’re on their end-of-life journey, they’re going to be gone soon. But that ceremony, and those memories, are going to be passed on and kept with the family members for many years to come.”
Though many veterans are recognized for their service through their communities, American Legion or VFW, there are just as many who never see recognition of any kind. Gadberry said giving that recognition to veterans during the last steps of their end-of-life journey is memorable for all involved.
“Every ceremony, every event is completely different,” said Gadberry. “Every time I do it, I take away something different and I learn a little bit more.”
Becker-Barkman said her time with Hospice of Michigan has also been life-changing.
“I’ve learned so much about end-of-life care and what that entails for us as human beings,” said Becker-Barkman. “I get to be surrounded by so many brilliant, loving, giving people that it’s changed my entire outlook on everything.
“It’s magical to be surrounded by people who are so willing to show up for people they don’t know at what can be the hardest time in their life; it’s rejuvenating.”
The value of serving in new ways
Hospice of Michigan is continually in need of compassionate veteran volunteers to provide that much needed support and camaraderie to hospice veterans. Regardless of how they served, the bond between veterans opens a door of trust and communication through mutual understanding.
“Veterans share a unique bond,” said Kathy Lietaert, Hospice of Michigan Statewide Volunteer Program Manager, in supplied material. “Through our veterans hospice program, every act of service by volunteer veterans brings comfort, connection and compassion to hospice veterans who need it most at the end of life.”
Volunteers can make a life-changing impact with a minimal time commitment (Courtesy photo)
Becker-Barkman said they are always looking for more volunteer support, in Grand Rapids and throughout the state – and their volunteering schedule is flexible.
“You could [visit] one patient a month, visit once a week, or whatever fits your schedule,” said Becker-Barkman. “We don’t have any rigid guidelines. We want volunteers to be able to fit this into their lives in a way that’s meaningful and not overwhelming for them.”
Volunteer orientations are hosted on an as-needed basis so prospective volunteers can learn in their own time. Training or previous volunteer experience is not needed. All veterans willing to donate their time and companionship to hospice care patients are welcome.
Gadberry believes that veterans will step in to help once they are aware of the need.
“I was more than happy to help out,” said Gadberry. “I think that will be the case for other veterans out there. If they hear that another veteran needs some form of help, they will always step up.”
Learn more!
Prospective volunteers can contact Lauren Becker-Barkman at 616-250-9110 or lbecker-barkman@hom.org.
Learn more about Hospice of Michigan and submit an online volunteer application here.
Volunteers of two local commissions will plant four redbud trees at the Wyoming Veteran’s Memorial Garden for WWII and Korean War veterans (Courtesy, The City of Wyoming Historical Commission)
Only one evergreen tree (not pictured) currently remains to the east of the monument. With funding from the Greater Wyoming Community Resource Alliance, The Tree Amigos and Historical Commission plan to spruce up the memorial originally erected in 1945 at the intersection of Lee Street and Porter Street. Plantings adjacent to the monument will be updated in the spring.
(Courtesy, The City of Wyoming Historical Commission)
“The Wyoming Historical Commission is grateful to The Tree Amigos for beautifying the Wyoming Honor Roll Memorial dedicated to our veterans from Wyoming who served during WWII and the Korean Wars,” says Vicki Briggs, board member of The Historical Commission.
“This memorial was dedicated on May 30, 1945. The original plantings had been removed due to their age and now will be renewed.”
Tree dedication ceremony
A brief ceremony dedicating the trees and remembering the veterans named on the monument will take place at 12 p.m. on Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11.
Representatives from the City of Wyoming and the Historical Commission will say a few words, along with American Legion Post 154 Post Commander Keith Wakefield. The Tree Amigos will also make an announcement about future projects.
“That’s so exciting, and I appreciate what Tree Amigos is doing to beautify the neighborhood,” says Kalene McElveen, owner of Tasteful Vegan Ice Cream Shop, a business adjacent to the planting site.
Local history
Boyce Slootmaker lied about his age to join the Navy at age 16 (Courtesy, Slootmaker family)
Among those named on the memorial are family members of The Tree Amigos chairperson, Estelle Slootmaker: Boyce Slootmaker (WWII), Howard Joyce (Korean War), and Clayton Burkholder (WWII).
Lieutenant Commander Roger B. Chaffee was added to the memorial in 1967. Born and raised in Wyoming, Chaffee died on Jan. 27, 1967 in the Apollo spacecraft flash fire during a launch pad test at Kennedy Space Center, FL.
McDonald’s restaurants across the region will be recognizing Veterans Day in a special way, by offering current and former military members a free meal (Courtesy photo)
McDonald’s restaurants throughout Grand Rapids are honored to serve veterans, active-duty military members and their families each and every day. This year, McDonald’s restaurants across the region will be recognizing Veterans Day in a special way, by offering current and former military members a free meal.
Participating McDonald’s restaurants will offer a meal to all veterans with a valid military ID on Monday, Nov. 11. For breakfast, veterans can enjoy an Egg McMuffin or Bacon Egg Cheese Biscuit, along with a hash brown and any size soft drink, tea or coffee.
Meals are only available via dine-in or drive-thru, and are not available in the McDonald’s app. Breakfast meals are only available until 10:30 a.m.
(Courtesy, McDonald’s)
Supporting community
Local McDonald’s owner/operators are committed to feeding and fostering communities by providing meals in honor of veterans, teachers and first responders, and through support of youth sports leagues and neighborhood jobs.
Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids (MVHGR), in partnership with Zero Day, will host their Veterans Day 5 Remembrance 0.5-Mile Walk/Roll, 5K, and 5-Mile Run on Nov. 9 at 2950 Monroe Ave. NE.
Event check-in will begin at 7:15 a.m. The Kent County Honor Guard will present the colors while Army Veteran Danielle Engle sings the national anthem. The 5-mile run will begin at 8:30 a.m., followed by the 5K at 8:50 a.m., and the 0.5-mile remembrance walk at 9 a.m.
myTeam Triumph – Michigan Chapter Angels push Home members as Captains during the 5K run (Courtesy, MVH)
Registration for the race is currently open and will accommodate walk-ups the morning of the event. To register, click Veterans Day 5. Please enter off Monroe Avenue NE and follow signs for parking and check-in.
“We are always seeking opportunities to enrich the lives of the veteran members living at the Home as well as providing ways for the greater community of Grand Rapids to engage with veteran members,” said Ryan Engle, Director of Development and Strategic Engagement for Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH).
“The funds raised through the event will support the charitable support fund that provides therapeutic and leisure activities for every veteran member we have the honor and privilege to care for.”
Participants, volunteers and spectators are invited to join veteran members and staff in the Home’s bistro for the SpartanNash Community Pancake Breakfast from 9 – 11:30 a.m. Race participants, volunteers and veteran members will receive a complimentary breakfast courtesy of SpartanNash, while guests are asked to make a minimum $5 donation to MVHGR.
Zero Day will donate 100% of event proceeds and donations to MVHGR following the event.
Sponsorship and giving opportunities
Those interested in sponsorship opportunities for the Veterans Day 5, please email dmva-mvhgiving@michigan.gov.
MVHGR is seeking monetary donations to improve members’ quality of life through life enrichment activities (Courtesy, MVH)
In support of life enrichment activities that improve the quality of life for members, the Home is seeking monetary donations. Monetary donations can be made on-site by cash or check during the race, online at Michigan Veteran Homes – Make a Gift, or via checks made out to MVHGR and mailed to 2950 Monroe Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.
This year’s race is supported by Zero Day, SpartanNash, myTeam Triumph – Michigan Chapter, The McGraw Family and Village Caregiving.
A viewing of Our Trip, a documentary produced by Vietnam veteran Tom Sibley, will be hosted by Marge’s Donut Den in Wyoming on Wednesday, July 10 at 2 p.m.
Our Trip follows 12 Vietnam veterans back to Vietnam in 1995. Using WKTV Community Media facilities, Sibley produced the 40-minute video under Mr. Sid’s Video Series with footage and photographs taken by the returning veterans and Grand Rapids Press staff that accompanied them. Recorded interviews with participants after the trip were also included.
(Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The Our Trip experience
After a brief history of the United States involvement in Vietnam, the video combines the veterans’ wartime experiences via the various stages of the trip. Sibley said the trip was special and inspiring, but all veterans were “amazed by the warm welcome and friendliness of the people we met.”
The trip included a search for the helicopter crash site that killed pilot Floyd Olsen, a friend of one of the trip veterans. The crash site was located near the village of Hong Ha. Friends and relatives of Olsen later built a medical clinic at the village.
A visit to an orphanage found the veterans interacting with the children and then painting the orphanage. A year later, one of the veterans and his wife completed an adoption of two girls he met while at the orphanage.
Meaning, healing, and peace
“The video…says a lot about the Vietnam experience and what it means to be a veteran,” said James Smither, GVSU Veterans History Project Director, at a previous screening of Our Trip.
A discussion moderated by Smither will follow the Our Trip viewing.
Battle Ground JKD owner, Reggie Macon, said superheroes such as Batman and X-Men are highlighted so often that children don’t realize there are heroes right next to them every day.
Heroes walk among us every day in the form of U.S. veterans (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“The kids are more familiar with those heroes, not knowing that they walk amongst actual heroes that actually help us, that gave us the privilege to walk freely as we do,” said Macon. “Giving them a chance to dress up like their heroes and meet our local heroes is big to me.”
Hero’s Breakfast is designed to serve those local heroes – our veterans – as well.
“It helps our vets get their story out, or get a chance to mingle with everyday people that might not normally stop to give them a conversation,” said Macon. “This would give the younger kids a better understanding of what these guys have been through so [the kids] could have the life that they’re living now.”
Curiosity invites conversation
(Courtesy photo)
Veterans are invited to wear their military uniform, a military branch hat or jacket, or even dog tags to invite questions from children that could lead to a deeper conversation.
Macon believes the interaction between children and veterans could give the younger generation a better understanding of their history.
“We get taught a lot of stuff in school, but a lot of stuff is watered down and not in much detail,” said Macon. “Just giving them the understanding that these [veterans] aren’t people that are in history, these are people that still walk amongst us now, will give them a better insight.
“When we get taught history, we think about stuff that happened long ago, but these are still people that live today. Being able to meet these people and shake their hands…I think that would have a great impact.”
Building a bridge of greater understanding
Bridging the gap between civilians and veterans is important to Reginald Howard, owner and CEO of Hero’s Corner, as well as to Battle Ground owner Macon. Together, these local business owners are working to build a greater understanding between those two groups.
“[Hero’s Corner] can be the one space where they come together and get stories, get a better understanding of what’s going on, or dig deeper inside the veteran’s thoughts and give the vets more ways to communicate,” said Macon.
“That’s been one of the biggest things that help vets get over whatever they went through – just by talking, and having somebody that they can lean on and have a conversation with.”
Hero’s Breakfast will allow children to have a better understanding of our country’s history (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Events like Hero’s Breakfast, Macon went on to say, can be utilized as an icebreaker to begin those conversations people might be hesitant to start.
“This would be the icebreaker, and get that conversation started. Now, it wouldn’t be the fear of starting the conversation, it would be continuing it.”
Non-veteran community members are also welcome to utilize the space at Hero’s Corner. Rental inquiries can be directed to Reginald Howard at connect@heroscornergrandrapids.org or 616-635-2768.
Let’s have some fun: Event details
Along with breakfast, Hero’s Breakfast attendees will be able to play various games. A 360-degree photo booth will allow children to do action shots.
“Just come out and have fun,” said Macon. “Enjoy yourself, and come utilize this great space that’s available to the public.”
To RSVP for the free Hero’s Breakfast event, click here.
For more information about Hero’s Corner and upcoming events, click here.
For more information about Battle Ground JKD and upcoming events and classes, click here.
The Lost Boat Ceremony is a naval tradition that honors sailors who lost their lives at sea. This ceremony is practiced by many seafaring cultures around the world. For 37 years, the USS Silversides Submarine Museum has held the ceremony to honor the bravery of submariners and remind us of the importance of remembering their sacrifices.
The USS Silversides was one of the most successful submarines in the Pacific Theatre of World War II, credited with sinking 23 enemy vessels. The submarine and its crew were awarded a Presidential citation and earned 12 battle stars.
The museum will be open for Memorial Day, May 28.
About the museum
The Silversides Museum is comprised of three facilities: the two-story museum building housing temporary and permanent exhibits; the USS Silversides Gato-class submarine; and the USCGC McLane, a prohibition-era Coast Guard cutter.
Outside the museum are various opportunities to engage with WWII and submarine history through lectures, classes, immersive events and community fundraisers.
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum announced it will join museums nationwide in the Blue Star Museums (BSM) initiative, providing free admission to currently serving U.S. military personnel and their families this summer.
The 2024 program will begin on Armed Forces Day, May 18, and end Labor Day, Sept 2.
“We have participated in this initiative for years and are proud to be a Blue Star Museum,” said Brooke Clement, director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. “As President, Gerald R. Ford served as the Commander in Chief and this partnership fittingly honors that role and his own military service.”
National Endowment for the Arts Chair, Maria Rosario Jackson, said, “We are grateful to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum for participating in this summer’s Blue Star Museums program, and we hope military families will take this opportunity to create meaningful, lifelong memories.
“Whether you are traveling this summer, getting to know a new duty location, or exploring what your community has to offer, Blue Star Museums is a wonderful opportunity to create connection and find inspiration.”
In addition to the Ford Museum, the BSM program includes children’s museums, art, science, and history museums, zoos, gardens, lighthouses and more, hailing from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The list of participating museums continues to grow as additional organizations register (Courtesy photo)
How to participate
The free admission program is available for those currently serving in the United States Military – Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force, members of the Reserves, National Guard, U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps – and up to five family members.
Qualified members must show a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID), DD Form 1173-1 ID card or the Next Generation Uniformed Services (Real) ID card for entrance into a participating BSM.
The current list of participating museums will continue to grow over the summer as organizations register to be a BSM throughout the summer.
To find the list of participating museums, click here.
From left: Lee Ly, Bieu Duong and Phillip Nguyen, standing in front of The Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum in Grand Rapids. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
West Michigan resident Phillip Nguyen was 15 years old when he crammed into a 25-by-6 wooden boat with 57 other “boat people” to start a wild journey to a new life away from Vietnam.
“We packed them on; that boat was barely an inch over water,” said Nguyen, who produces a show called “VietSong” at WKTV and is President of Digital Marketing Solutions LLC.
Nguyen traveled by boat to small Chinese islands and learned English and American culture while in Hong Kong before making his way to the United States two years later.
He was fortunate to survive the very dangerous boat trips. Many Vietnamese people risked their lives to escape their war-torn country and seek a better life elsewhere, but did not survive the high seas.
“This isn’t a fiction novel, this is real,” Nguyen explained. “My brother-in-law told me his mother sent him and his two brothers on separate boats every couple of months because she feared if their boat would be lost, they would all die. His brothers never made it; they were completely gone. He was the only one to survive.”
From left: Lee Ly, Bieu Duong and Phil Nguyen at the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum in Grand Rapids. This year marks the 49th anniversary of The Fall of Saigon. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
The Fall of Saigon, which occurred on April 30, 1975, marked the end of the Vietnam War and a pivotal moment in world history. The event not only signaled the collapse of South Vietnam’s government, but also triggered one of the most significant waves of mass emigration in modern history. This year marks the 49th anniversary of The Fall of Saigon.
On April 28, 1975, U.S. President Gerald R. Ford called for the emergency evacuation of American civilians and military from Saigon. Two days later North Vietnamese forces advanced into Saigon, leading to the collapse of the South Vietnamese government. The sight of helicopters lifting off from the U.S. Embassy in Saigon became an iconic image, symbolizing the end of the war.
According to borgenproject.org, in the aftermath of the fall of Saigon, South Vietnamese feared persecution under the new communist government. This fear led to a mass exodus, with many seeking asylum in other countries. Over 1.5 million South Vietnamese attempted their perilous escape by boat. Drowning, piracy, dehydration and failed vessels that would never make landfall would wipe out an estimated 10 percent of refugees.
According to borgenproject.org, over 1.5 million South Vietnamese attempted their perilous escape by boat. (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Under the cover of night
Before Nguyen fled Vietnam in 1982, he noticed people in his village disappearing overnight.
“I lived in a village … almost every day you wake up a family was gone over night,” Nguyen said. “Every day you wake up you hear neighbors say he’s gone, she’s gone, the family is all gone. It seems like everyone was trying to run to get to a better future.”
Vietnamese emigration to the United States
For Vietnamese who fled in 1975, most were received at the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and settled in southern California, according to Michigan State Associate Professor of History Charles Keith. The initial wave of refugees consisted mainly of individuals with ties to the U.S. government, military and other South Vietnamese institutions.
“The conditions of diaspora really differentiated Vietnamese experiences from those of other Asian migrants,” Keith explained. “Vietnamese were the only Asian-Americans who were virtually all war refugees when they came.
“Those who came throughout the 1980s relocated to many parts of the country. But many had a second, internal migration within the U.S. for various reasons: better weather, occupations they were familiar with, and to be part of larger Vietnamese communities, which intensified the size of the community in southern California into the largest Vietnamese community in the U.S.”
Into the jungle
Loan Pham was five years old when the invading North Vietnamese took her hometown of Saigon, forcing her family and many more to the jungles of Vietnam.
“The new government warned people to go live in the jungle,” explained Pham, who’s from Wyoming. “I went to the jungle with my mom and three siblings, we were city people now living in the jungle.”
Pham’s mother was injured by a falling tree while trying to build a shelter for her small family during their months in the jungle. Once they returned to city life they would remain homeless for the next 11 years.
Loan Pham was five years old when she and her family escaped to the jungle when North Vietnam took Saigon. (Photo Courtesy, Loan Pham)
“We had a rough life”
“We had a rough life,” Pham said. “I had to start working at seven years old because my mom was sick. I would work odd jobs. I would sell stuff, people would ask me to do some small jobs. I would give the money to my mom so she could buy rice to feed us.”
Coming to America
Pham found a different way to the United States that most Vietnamese people including Nguyen could not take advantage of. Her father was an American soldier.
In 1983, Pham used her status as an American kid to start the process of emigrating to the United States.
“When I was 13 years old I saw on the TV news … it said if you have American children, you fill out paperwork to get to the United States,” Pham explained. “Five years later, when I was 18, I finally had my papers. I went to the Philippines for eight months to learn English and American culture.
“They taught us the peace sign, the middle finger, and not to ask people their age, all the stuff we might need to get along in the U.S.”
Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
Part of the Saigon Staircase exhibit at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. (WKTV/Cris Greer)
Nguyen came to America via Bethany Christian Services
Also in 1983, Nguyen made his way to Michigan through Bethany Christian Services. Nguyen was orphaned when he was five years old. His father was killed in the war, and his mother died a couple of years later.
“I was under the minors program sponsored by Bethany Christian Services,” Nguyen said. “I lived with my foster parents until I was 18.”
Nguyen had a typical American life of working small jobs and graduating from South Christian High School while living with his foster parents. Nguyen completed his bachelor’s degree at Western Michigan University where he met his wife.
Nguyen gives back; has fostered 17 children
Nguyen and his wife have three adult children and have helped foster 17 others through Bethany Christian Services.
“I owe them one and paid back with 17,” Nguyen proudly said.
His household is still home to five foster children.
“We have three from Afghanistan, one from Guatemala and one from Honduras.”
Upon arrival in the United States, Pham was helped out by the U.S. government, but that assistance would not be long-term, and soon she was looking for work in a foreign country.
“My first job was sewing baby clothes for $2 an hour,” Pham said.
Fortunately for Nguyen and Pham, they were able to avoid harsh racism and persecution that many of their fellow Vietnamese refugees had to endure.
“When I came to Michigan I didn’t see any racism against me, nothing like I saw when I lived in Vietnam,” Pham said. “South Vietnam was racist towards North Vietnam.”
And Nguyen said he was more fortunate than most.
“I’ve seen it happen to other people and I’ve heard horror stories, but me personally have never really felt it,” said Nguyen, who served as the president of the Vietnamese American Community of Grand Rapids Michigan for six years.
(VACGRM) is a non-profit community organization established to serve Vietnamese Americans in the city of Grand Rapids and its surrounding areas with charity and cultural work.
Events include: Remembering the Fall of Saigon, Lunar New Year celebrations and other cultural events throughout the year. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the VACGRM was able to supply food and medicine to those in need in the Vietnamese community in West Michigan.
The fall of Saigon created new beginnings for countless Vietnamese refugees who found hope and a new home in the United States.
Viet Benevolence Foundation
Nyguyn is Founder and Chairman of the Board of the Viet Benevolence Foundation.
“In July 2022, I went to Việtnam to work with the U.S. Consulate Office and with the Vietnamese government in an effort to preserve the former Vietnamese National Cemetery known as Nghia Trang Quan Doi Bien Hoa (now renamed Nghia Trang Nhan Dan) where over 16,000 former South Vietnamese soldiers rest. During this trip I learned that there are thousands and thousands of former South Vietnamese soldiers’ remains that still need help to bring home to their families, especially those who died in re-education camps after 1975.”
To learn more about Nyugen’s Viet Benevolence Foundation, who’s mission is “Healing the past and empowering the future through charitable causes,” check out VIETBENEVOLENCE.ORG
In November 2023, ten Vietnam veterans embarked on a journey they never thought possible. Returning to Vietnam, the veterans explored locations and memories that have held deep significance for each of them for the last 49 years.
Mission Veteran Expedition, a collaborative venture between CDLLife, FASTPORT, and nonprofits Waypoint Vets and Wreaths Across America, made this journey possible. Together, they released a documentary of the trip, “Mission Veteran Expedition: Honoring Vietnam Veterans in the Transportation Industry.”
The documentary, captured and produced by U.S. Army veteran Nicholas Mott, owner of Seven Five Media, is available at no cost on Wreaths Across America’s YouTube channel.
Mission Veteran Expedition will also air on WKTV Government Channel Comcast 26 and AT&T U-verse Wyoming & Kentwood Government Channel 99 on Tuesday, April 30 at 7 p.m., Wednesday, May 1 at 8:15 p.m. and Saturday, May 4 at 12 p.m.
Click here to view a short preview of the documentary.
A profound journey evokes healing
“The documentary offers an intimate and compelling look at the journey of these veterans,” said videographer Nicholas Mott. “Capturing the essence of their experiences and the profound impact of the Mission Veteran Expedition was truly an honor. I hope other Vietnam veterans will watch it and find it healing.”
Quang Tri, Vietnam (Courtesy, Lance Cpl. Francisco Diaz U.S. Navy)
The trip offered ten veterans, each of whom has made a living in the transportation industry, an extraordinary opportunity to revisit Vietnam and reflect on their service there. The documentary explores this impactful journey, which combines travel, camaraderie and history.
Waypoint Vets, a non-profit organization dedicated to uniting and empowering veterans through camaraderie and adventure, led the expedition, ensuring each participant experienced a meaningful and lasting journey.
The itinerary included a variety of experiences, including:
Grounds Tour of the Former Saigon Embassy
Walking Street Food Tour through Ho Chi Minh City
Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta Luxury Tour
War Remnants Museum
Halong Bay Cruise
Defense POW / MIA Accounting Agency Tour
A ‘Welcome Home’ ceremony hosted at Sirius XM studios in Hollywood, with interviews on Radio Nemo
Redefining memories
Vietnam War Memorial Dedication Ceremony in Rota, Spain (Courtesy, Petty Officer 1st Class Michael Barton U.S. Navy)
“The Mission Veteran Expedition successfully commemorated these veterans’ valiant contributions while allowing them to experience the beauty of Vietnam’s landscapes and the richness of its culture,” said Sarah Lee, Army combat veteran and founder of Waypoint Vets. “For many veterans, the memories associated with Vietnam are often intertwined with the challenges of war.
“This expedition redefined these associations and replaced them with new, healing memories. By engaging with Vietnam on a deep, personal level, the trip forged lasting connections and helped veterans find solace in the beauty of a nation at peace.”
“I feel the trip’s culmination was an important piece of closure for the participant’s journey,” said Brad Bentley, President of FASTPORT, who traveled to Vietnam with the group.
“These men returned to the United States to a hero’s welcome, and for millions who never received this show of gratitude for answering the call of duty, it was truly an honor to say, ‘Welcome Home.’”
Our Trip follows 12 Vietnam veterans back to Vietnam in 1995. Using WKTV Community Media facilities, Vietnam veteran Tom Sibley produced the 40-minute video with footage and photographs taken by the returning veterans and Grand Rapids Press staff that accompanied them. Recorded interviews with participants after the trip were also included.
The Our Trip experience
(Courtesy, Tom Sibley)
After a brief history of the United States involvement in Vietnam, the video combines the veterans’ wartime experiences via the various stages of the trip. Sibley said the trip was special and inspiring, but all veterans were “amazed by the warm welcome and friendliness of the people we met.”
The trip included a search for the helicopter crash site that killed pilot Floyd Olsen, a friend of one of the trip veterans. The crash site was located near the village of Hong Ha. Friends and relatives of Olsen later built a medical clinic at the village.
A visit to an orphanage found the veterans interacting with the children and then painting the orphanage. A year later, one of the veterans and his wife completed an adoption of two girls he met while at the orphanage.
Meaning, healing, and peace
Approximately 90 were in attendance for the video showing. James Smither, GVSU Veterans History Project Director, provided historical background and invited those in attendance to share their stories.
(Courtesy, Tom Sibley)
“Several of the veterans discussed how their faith had helped them get through their war experiences and make peace with them,” Smither told WKTV.
Showing the video at the MVH allowed residents to participate, Sibley said. Smither added that it brought an audience of people who had not seen it before.
“Many of them were Vietnam veterans, and two of them were in the video and had never seen it,” said Smither. “The video also says a lot about the Vietnam experience and what it means to be a veteran, so it was an appropriate venue. We drew a good crowd, and they clearly appreciated the video.”
After the video, all were invited for a social time with cake and coffee prepared by Connie Ceton and MVH staff.
MVH Volunteer Coordinator Gretchen Muir and Activity Director Becky Smit organized the event.
The Grand Rapids Christmas Lite Show has been a holiday tradition for most West Michigan families for the past 25 years.
With over 50,000 visitors each year, the Christmas Lite Show (CLS) has grown to be the largest lite show display in West Michigan.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
How it all began
A family-owned business, the CLS was founded by American veteran William (Bill) Schrader after returning to West Michigan as a wounded war veteran.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Schrader and his family would spend the days leading up to Christmas driving through neighborhood decorated in lights. It was a cherished family tradition by Schrader, his wife and their three children.
After sharing those memories with family friends, Schrader approached the LMCU Ballpark office and asked to lease the parking lot so he could bring a unique and fun holiday attraction to West Michigan.
Comprised of a 30-person team of mostly veterans, the CLS has grown from generators, gas cans, and mile-long extension cords to transformers, power boxes, and 100% LEDs, and from one semi trailer full of lights to eight.
The mission
The CLS 40-night season (Nov. 22 – Dec. 31) brings new displays and experiences every year – and is the result of a year-round effort by Schrader and his team.
“The whole mission is to bring a smile to the kids,” Schrader says on the CLS website. “It’s all about the kids.”
Schrader and his team are dedicated to spreading joy and good fortune to our community. They carry out this spirit through the CLS and by supporting and donating to local organizations like the Grand Rapids Veterans Home.
Support Michigan veterans via monetary donations or in-kind donations this holiday season (Courtesy, MVH)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
Donations help improve quality of life for veteran members (Courtesy, MVH)
Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH) has published a wish list for each Home highlighting much-needed items to support veteran members this holiday season.
“Michiganders who fought and sacrificed for our freedom deserve our gratitude and support during the holidays,” said Governor Whitmer. “For the more than 300 veterans living at state veteran homes in Chesterfield Township, Grand Rapids, and Marquette, a letter filled with holiday wishes or a gift from their wish list makes a real difference in their lives and lets them know they are not forgotten.
“Let’s continue working together to make sure our veterans and their families feel our support around the holidays.”
Monetary donations
Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids (MVHGR) is seeking monetary donations to support the charitable support fund which is used to improve the quality of life for veteran members.
Monetary donations can be made at Support MVH or checks can be written to MVHGR and mailed to 2950 Monroe Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505. Please indicate the fund designation “Charitable Support Fund” in the memo section of the check.
In-kind donations
In-kind donations can be dropped off at the new Home (Courtesy, MVH)
The Home is also seeking in-kind donations such as Velcro shoes, Forever stamps, snack items and potted indoor plants. These items can be brought to the main entrance of the new Home.
For more information or to coordinate a time to drop off in-kind donations, please contact Volunteer and Donations Coordinator Gretchen Muir at muirg@michigan.gov or 616-840-3001.
Updated wish list items and donation tips may be viewed online at Holiday Wish List 23. You can also direct-ship requested items from the Home’s Amazon Wish List.
Editor’s Note: WKTV is reposting this unique, local story in honor of George David Payne and all United States veterans.
The weeks leading up to the sinking of the USS Indianapolis during a top secret mission in WWII, 17-year-old sailor George David Payne mailed two letters home from the ship.
Some 77 years after his brother tragically died on that ship off the coast of Japan, Sparta resident David Payne still gets extremely emotional reading those last letters.
“I get choked up when I read that last letter,” said David, who never met George David. “From my understanding he was a quiet, nice kid. I’ve never heard anything bad about him.”
Below is an excerpt from one of the two final letters from George David Payne (Seaman 2nd Class):
One of the two letters Wyoming sailor George David Payne sent home just weeks before the USS Indianapolis sank off the coast of Japan on July 30, 1945. (Courtesy, David Payne)
Dear Mom, Dad and Kids,
I hope this letter finds all of you in the best of health. I feel pretty good myself.
Tell dad and all the kids I said hi. Tell Jean the same. I suppose you are having quite a time with the kids.
Tell grandma and grandpa I said hello. Boy, I’ll sure be glad when I get another leave, but I shouldn’t start thinking about a leave already.
I suppose it is pretty nice weather in Michigan now. Anyway, it should be summer. Well, I’ll have to say so long for now.
Love to all the family,
George David Payne
Tragedy strikes shortly after letters sent home
Tragically, not long after the letters were sent, torpedoes from the Japanese submarine I-58 sank the USS Indianapolis to the bottom of the Western Pacific Ocean within minutes on July 30, 1945.
Only 316 men survived
An estimated 300 men died aboard the ship, while nearly 900 sailors abandoned it, leading to several days of fighting off sharks, dehydration and injuries. Only 316 survived.
Top secret mission delivering atomic bomb components for use on Hiroshima
On a top secret mission that began in San Francisco, the Indianapolis successfully delivered atomic bomb components to Tinian Island. The components delivered were used in the atomic bomb (Little Boy) that the United States dropped on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945.
USS Indianapolis in its prime. (U.S. Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)
“Many are familiar with Captain Quint’s retelling of the ship’s story in the 1975 film, “Jaws.” Few, however, understand the far-reaching impact of the incident and the tremendous amount of documentation and research conducted in the wake of the incident that continues to impact how the Navy operates today,” according to the Naval History and Heritage Command Communication and Outreach Division.
George David Payne is remembered by two siblings (David Payne and Suzanna Green) in a WKTV interview last summer (2022). July 30, 2023, marked the 78th anniversary of the sinking of the Indianapolis.
Siblings Jim and Cherie Payne, and mom Lillian Payne at their home: 305 Murray St., Wyoming, in 1945. (David Payne)
“I wasn’t born yet when George died,” David continued. “I didn’t realize I had a brother that died in the war until I was seven. In the early fifties, there was a program on TV showing the Japanese sinking that ship and my mother Lillian started crying and said your brother was on that ship.”
While recently looking at a photo of his brother Jim, Mom Lillian and sister Cherie (dated June 20, 1945) enjoying a happy day on the front porch, David said it soon turned tragic about a month later with the death of his brother on July 30, 1945.
David said his brother George David wasn’t old enough to sign up for the war so his dad signed the necessary paperwork in 1945 to let him join the Navy.
A short stint on the ship
“He was only on that ship for two weeks,” said David, age 75, who’s lived in Sparta for over 30 years. “I had an older brother in California (Nick Alberts, from his mother’s previous marriage), and he met him out there. George stayed for Nick’s wedding in California, and then got transferred to the USS Indianapolis.”
David said Nick, a member of the Seabees in California at the time, blamed himself for George’s fate.
“My little buddy”
USS Indianapolis Seaman 2nd Class George David Payne. (Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)
“He blamed himself for getting him transferred and going to the wedding,” said David, as he cried explaining the sad details. “He always called George ‘my little buddy,’ and said, ‘I can’t come home without my little buddy.’”
Because of that lingering guilt, David said his big brother Nick didn’t return home for 15 years.
“He had guilt, but did finally come home in the late fifties when I was 14 years old,” David continued. “Nick left a book on the Indianapolis with me.”
Most of the 12 siblings (seven girls, five boys) grew up on 305 Murray Street in Wyoming and attended Kelloggsville High School.
Providing after death
Many of them experienced the Great Depression. And it wasn’t lost on any family member how far George’s Navy death gratuity went to pay for their necessities.
“Our mother bought our school clothes and everything we needed from that check, it helped out our family so much,” said David, born on September 17, 1945, less than two months after the Indianapolis sank. “Both mom and dad got 20 or 30 dollars a month from George’s death.”
Gruesome shark attack stories
David Payne honoring and remembering his brother George David at a USS Indianapolis memorial in 1995 in Indy. (Courtesy, David Payne)
During a USS Indianapolis memorial event held in Indianapolis in 1995, David learned firsthand about the tragedy from several survivors.
“Through the years, we didn’t talk about it much and we were hoping he wasn’t trapped in the ship or killed by sharks,” said David, who attended with his wife Mary and sister Suzanna Green.
“Some of the guys relayed the terrible stories, talking about sharks dragging away their friends. It must have been hell.”
He said nearly 200 sailors attended, and recalls some talking about the gruesome shark attacks.
“I remember one guy’s account saying he heard a fellow sailor’s last word’s while getting dragged off by a shark, he screamed for his mother, and David imagined his brother George screaming for mom as well, as he cried retelling his memorial experience with survivors.
“There were some terrible stories. They had to go through hell.”
A “wonderful guy”
Green said George David was “kind-hearted, and definitely cared about his country. My mother cried over his death all of her life and made sure all of us knew we had a brother George David. He was a good kid.”
Green, who also attended the 1995 Indianapolis memorial, recalls the heavy emotions of the event.
“We went there because it was in his memory,” said Green, who taught for 30 years in the Grand Rapids Public School system. “And it was very emotional when we found his name on the monument. Dave put Mary on his shoulders and she put a piece of paper up there and she scratched it with a pencil.”
A proud celebration of life and service
Siblings David, Suzanna and Margie Payne at home on 305 Murray St. in Wyoming in the late 40s. (David Payne)
“It made me feel real close to the brother that I never saw,” Green continued.
“I knew him, but never saw him. I was very proud that his name was there and that he was remembered. It was a celebration of his life and his service.”
Green said their faith got her through the tragedy.
“Mom read the bible every day,” Green explained. “I love him like I grew up with him and that’s because my mother kept his memory alive.”
“We love him even though we didn’t ever get to meet him. And he still is well loved.”
Navy changes status
The Navy officially changed the status of George David and 12 other sailors lost when the Indianapolis was sunk in 1945 from “unaccounted for” to “buried at sea,” Navy Casualty announced on May 27, 2022.
The change in status is the result of extensive research between Naval History and Heritage Command, Navy Casualty Office, the USS Indianapolis Survivors Association, the USS Indianapolis Legacy Organization, and the Chief Rick Stone and Family Charitable Foundation.
The announcement helps bring closure to the families of these sailors who lost their lives at the end of a secret mission which helped end World War II.
Remembering George David through his clothing
At age 12, David found one of George’s Navy peacoats.
“I put it on and came upstairs and asked mom if I could have it,” he recalled.
His brother James would put on his Navy uniform occasionally.
A friend’s dad and Battle of the Bulge veteran from World War II, James Emanouil, age 97 at the time of the original article, used to spar with George David in the early forties at a local gym in Grand Rapids.
“I think George David wanted to join this war because of James and Nick.”
Service to the country goes way, way back
David’s fascination with genealogy led to a discovery of another young veteran from long ago. He learned that a great, great, great grandparent fought in the American Revolution at age 15, Eli Payne, Sr. His 100-year-old aunt, at the time, gave David a charcoal drawing of this relative.
Captain Charles B. McVay III
Captain Charles B. McVay III, commander of the USS Indianapolis. (Naval History and Heritage Command Archives)
Per the Naval History and Heritage Command website, “Captain McVay was court-martialed in the aftermath of the sinking and found guilty of recklessly endangering his crew by failing to zig-zag, in spite of I-58 Captain Mochitsura Hashimoto’s testimony at the trial stating that such maneuvers would not have changed the outcome of his attack. The conviction effectively ruined McVay’s career. It was controversial at the time and remains so today.” (Hashimoto was the Japanese submarine commander that sank the USS Indianapolis.)
“McVay had a distinguished naval career prior to the loss of the Indianapolis. He served as Executive Officer of the USS Cleveland during the North African landings in November 1942 and earned a Silver Star for his actions aboard the same ship in the Solomon Islands in March 1943.”
After his death, McVay was exonerated by United States President Bill Clinton and the 106th Congress in 2000. Captain McVay committed suicide on November 6, 1968.
The bold paragraphs below are excerpts from survivor Captain Charles B. McVay’s detailed “Oral History – The Sinking of USS Indianapolis”
This is all documented in the Naval History and Heritage Command Archives. For a complete account of “Recollections of Captain Charles B. McVay, III,” visit here.
Captain McVay:
Commander Flynn
Executive officer [second in command on the ship] came up, Commander Flynn, and said, “We are definitely going down and I suggest that we abandon ship.” Well, knowing Flynn and having utter regard for his ability, I then said, “Pass the word to abandon ship.”
Dividing up rations floating at sea
I looked over the material that we had, the food stuffs, and told the people that I would open one Hormel tin per day. It contains 12 ounces and we would divide that evenly, and I also figured out each person could have two biscuits and two malted milk tablets, which I knew would last us about ten days.
Attacked by sharks
We had sharks, or rather they had sharks down there [in the life preserver group]. We know that because we have two survivors who were bitten by sharks and as I told this one boy in the hospital. I said, “You’d better take some castellan paint and put on that thing before it heals up because nobody will ever believe you’ve been bitten by a shark. You might as well outline the teeth mark and you will have it for the rest of your life and can say, `I know I was bitten by a shark.'”
USS Ringness to the rescue
The (USS) Ringness picked us up by radar. We had a 40 mm, empty ammunition can which I had spent a good deal of energy and time trying to get to, thinking it was an emergency ration, but we picked it up anyhow and saved it and she [Ringness] got a [radar] pip from this can.
I think we had lost probably about 15% of our weight and I was naturally so elated to get on the ship, as were the others that we didn’t turn in at all. We were given something to eat, ice cream, coffee, such as that. The doctor said, “You can eat all you want,” which most of us did. We drank quite a bit of water.
Operation Handshake, where active military members and veterans will receive a patriotic welcome to West Michigan, takes place today (Nov. 22) at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.
As military members and veterans arrive in West Michigan, military affiliated groups will line the concourse exits of the Ford International Airport to greet and thank them for their service. The daylong event will include members of the Patriot Guard Riders and Blue Star Mothers greeting the honored travelers, waving American flags, offering words of thanks and singing patriotic songs.
“The Ford International Airport is proud to host this annual event that honors those who have served our nation,” said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Chief Operating Officer Alex Peric. “We invite our community members to join us in welcoming our military members to West Michigan.”
Operation Handshake is free and open to the public throughout the day in the Airport’s Grand Hall by the security screening checkpoint.
“Each year it is an honor to greet veterans and active military and see the expressions on their faces,” said Phil Pakiela, captain of the Patriot Guard Riders of West Michigan. “We invite the community to join us for Operation Handshake to thank the brave individuals who fight for our freedom.”
Loved ones of military members and veterans traveling through Ford International Airport on Nov. 22 are encouraged to participate in Operation Handshake and provide flight information to Patriot Guard Riders, including arrival time. Information may be provided to Phil Pakiela via email at papapakiela@gmail.com or by phone at 616-916-3064.
Honoring its veterans is just one way that Care Resources – a community-based program for people 55 and over who wish to remain in their homes – utilizes its Grand Rapids site, which features a day center, clinic and pharmacy.
At Care Resources, veterans and other participants have access to a wide range of services, from physical, occupational and speech therapy, to daily meals and activities in the day center, to rehab and durable medical equipment, such as walkers, wheelchairs, oxygen and diabetic testing supplies.
Care Resources also makes daily home visits to nearly 60 men and women – veterans included – who are seeking ways to prevent being placed into nursing homes. Promoting healthy and independent living while working to prevent nursing home placement is the mission of the organization.
Care Resources values all the veterans they care for throughout the year. But on Veterans Day in particular, the organization takes the time to publicly salute the men and women who brought honor and dignity to the uniform they wore and to the flag they served.
For the last several years, Care Resources has hosted a ceremony during which the veterans in their care are showcased for the sacrifices they’ve made. A married pair of active-duty officers from the Michigan National Guard are only too happy to emcee the special event held every November at the organization’s day center at 4150 Kalamazoo Avenue SE.
This year’s program was held Friday, Nov. 10, and featured the National Anthem, the Pledge of Allegiance, remarks from Sgt. Maj. John Gebhard and the presentation of a pin and a commemorative coin to every veteran in attendance.
(Courtesy, Care Resources)
“We’re so thankful for them and it truly is an honor to let them know it, to show our appreciation,” says Sgt. Maj. John Gebhard.
His wife, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Krista Gebhard, adds: “We get to hear their stories, and make such important connections. It’s a great opportunity for us all.”
To learn more about Care Resources, visit CareResources.org or call 616-913-2006.
In honor of Veterans Day and in conjunction with Kent County’s observance of Operation Green Light, the University of Michigan Health-West has changed the illumination of its hospital tower to green.
The University of Michigan Health-West, 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW, Wyoming, will illuminate its hospital tower in green to express solidarity with veterans in observance of Veterans Day on both Friday and Saturday, Nov. 10 and 11.
Operation Green Light is a national initiative led by the National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers. It aims to showcase support for veterans and raise awareness about the available resources at the county, state and federal levels.
The hospital’s ties with veterans include hosting the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Wyoming outpatient clinic on its campus, providing a range of essential services to veterans.
Operation Green Light sheds light on the programs and benefits available to veterans and their families through Kent County Veterans Services, including emergency funds, disability benefits, burial assistance, and more.
Veteran-owned small businesses make many positive contributions to local communities and economies.
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
Governor Whitmer honors veterans with Veterans Small Business Week in Michigan (Courtesy, Supplied)
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has recognized Oct. 31 – Nov. 3 as Veterans Small Business Week in Michigan. This event is to celebrate the positive contributions made by veteran-owned small businesses to our local communities and economies across Michigan.
“During Veterans Small Business Week, let’s support Michigan’s strong, local veteran-owned small businesses and celebrate the huge impact they have on our economy,” said Gov. Whitmer.
“Michigan’s entrepreneurs and small business owners move our state forward,” Whitmer continued. “Many are owned and operated by Michiganders who served our nation in uniform and continue to make a difference in their community. This week and every week, let’s support our veteran-owned small businesses.”
Reducing barriers for veterans
Gov. Whitmer has signed legislation to reduce barriers to professional licensure. This created an expedited path for veterans and their families to practice their licensed profession in Michigan, easing the pathway to reciprocal licenses through expedited processing and waiving initial license and application fees.
Veteran Marion Gray holds a folded American flag (U.S. Dept. Veterans Affairs)
Veterans who are interested in registering a business in Michigan may also qualify for a waiver of fees for profit corporations, limited liability companies and nonprofit corporations. Learn more here: Veterans Fee Waiver.
“LARA is proud to show appreciation for members of the armed forces and their families by offering initial license/registration and application fee waivers,” said Marlon I. Brown, acting director of the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. “Our department offers several licensing supports for those currently serving and for those service members transitioning from active duty. LARA also counts military training and experiences toward fulfilling the requirements for certain licenses.”
Michigan as a “Startup State” for veterans
West Michigan’s veteran-care facility flies a 30- by 50-foot flag just off Monroe Avenue NE across from Grand Rapids’ Riverside Park. (Courtesy, WKTV/K.D. Norris)
Brian L. Love, director of the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA), said small businesses are the backbone of the Michigan economy and a key part of the state’s “Make it in Michigan” economic development strategy.
“We want Michigan to be the ‘startup state’ by being the best place for veterans to start their own businesses,” Love said. “When veterans return home, they bring with them a unique skillset that is invaluable in the entrepreneurial space.
“The MVAA is here to support veterans as they return home and enter the civilian workforce or start their own small business. We know having meaningful employment saves lives and we are glad small business owners go beyond thanking our vets for their service and recognize their service by hiring them and promoting them.”
The MVAA helps connect veterans with federal, state and local benefits and resources they earned for their service. To learn more, veterans can contact the Michigan Veteran Resource Service Center at 1-800-MICH-VET or visit www.michigan.gov/MVAA.
