Mt. Pleasant, Michigan
The Michigan Vietnam Memorial was officially dedicated as the state memorial on July 15, 1990 at Island Park in Mount Pleasant. Among those attending the ceremonies were both the State and National VVA Presidents, Congressman Bill Schuette, State Senator Joanne Emmons, General William Tollier representing the Governor's office, VVA Chapter #438 members, surviving families and community volunteers.
ISLAND PARK-Mt. Pleasant, Michigan
The Michigan Vietnam Memorial was a project of VAA Chapter #438 and consists of a walk bridge that connects the part to the Pickens ball diamonds, a flag gallery that displays military branch flags, VVA and chapter flags, POW-MIA, City, State and National Colors. Also featured is a series of brick monuments with plaques that bear the names of all Michigan servicemen and one servicewoman who were killed in Vietnam or are still listed as Missing in Action. One star designation next to a name is *Missing in Action. Double stars designate **Died in Captivity. The Memorial honors the U.S. Prisoners of War from all states that died in captivity. An Information Building was added to the site in 1991 where visitors can acquire information about the Memorial and Vietnam.
On September 17, 1994 the Memorial was re-dedicated with the completion of a bronze statue entitled "War Cry." Artist Derek Rainey of Portland, Michigan created the statue that depicts a Vietnam soldier embracing his wounded comrade. War Cry faces the Memorial flag gallery. Island Park is open daily unitl 11 p.m. and visitors are welcome. The entire Michigan Vietnam Memorial project was constructed with volunteer help and community donations. The memorial is maintained by the members of VAA chapter #438.
