Novi Commemorates National POW/MIA Recognition Day
Novi — On September 20th, countless individuals gathered at the “Michigan Remembers” POW/MIA Memorial located in Oakland Hills Memorial Gardens, Novi, to honor and remember the brave soldiers who have not yet returned home. The event marked the 45th annual observance of National POW/MIA Recognition Day, along with the 38th anniversary of the memorial itself. Debbie Pineau McClain, the president of the POW Committee of Michigan, addressed the crowd, stating, “We gather today to remember the heroism and sacrifices made by tens of thousands of Americans who endured captivity in enemy hands, as well as those whose fate remains unknown.”
Opening Ceremony
The ceremony began with a vibrant presentation of colors by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Heart of the Lakes Post 1008. The beautiful strains of “The Star-Spangled Banner” resonated through the air, performed by the Novi High School Choir, setting a somber yet hopeful tone for the day.
Heartfelt Tributes
The event featured moving speeches from the descendants of those who are still missing in action. Among the speakers was Tony Soma, who shared his personal connection to Major Martin J. Massucci of the U.S. Air Force, missing since October 1, 1965. Soma expressed how his cousin remains a daily presence in his thoughts, noting, “Every morning I put on a bracelet with my cousin’s name on it.” As he recounted his last memory of Massucci, Soma painted an image of a man full of life, a cousin who was like a big brother to him.
Another poignant moment was shared by Bruce Johnson, whose father, Lt. Col. Bruce G. Johnson of the U.S. Army, has been missing since June 10, 1965. Johnson recounted the heartbreak of watching families rejoice when their loved ones returned home, only to realize his father was not among them. “It was a complicated grief, that not knowing and yet that deep hoping,” he reflected. Johnson stated, “To this day, I miss him and his presence in our lives.”
A Sacred Moment
As names were read from a list of those unaccounted for, a bell rang in memory of each individual. The atmosphere was thick with emotion and remembrance as a 21-gun salute was rendered, followed by the hauntingly beautiful notes of “Taps” played by Tod Reber, a U.S. Navy Reservist.
A Special Recognition
During the event, a moment of surprise occurred when Sue Scott, a representative from the National League of POW/MIA Families, presented Marty Eddy with an award recognizing her outstanding contributions to the league and its mission. Eddy, who has been active in the POW/MIA cause since she was a teenager, expressed deep gratitude for the acknowledgment, stating, “To me, there is no higher calling and I will do my utmost to support the mission.”
Continuing the Fight
As the ceremony concluded with a sense of collective hope and remembrance, attendees left with a renewed commitment to keep the memories of their loved ones alive. The ongoing quest for answers continues for many families, who refuse to forget those still missing in action.
With heartfelt tributes shared and sacred moments honored, this year’s National POW/MIA Recognition Day served as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the enduring spirit of hope that lives on in the hearts of families across Michigan and beyond.
