Novi Remembers: A Heartfelt Tribute on National POW/MIA Recognition Day
Novi — On September 20, 2024, a poignant gathering took place at the “Michigan Remembers” POW/MIA Memorial located at Oakland Hills Memorial Gardens. The occasion marked the 45th annual observance of National POW/MIA Recognition Day and the 38th anniversary of the memorial itself, drawing people from all corners of southeastern Michigan to honor those soldiers who remain unaccounted for.
Debbie Pineau McClain, the president of the POW Committee of Michigan, opened the ceremony with heartfelt words. “Today marks a significant occasion as we gather to reflect on the heroism and sacrifices made by thousands of Americans who endured captivity and those whose fates remain a mystery,” she stated, setting a somber yet uplifting tone.
A Day of Remembrance and Honor
The event kicked off with a ceremonial presentation of colors by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Heart of the Lakes Post 1008. The melodic strains of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” beautifully performed by the Novi High School Choir, added to the solemnity of the day.
Emotional speeches followed, featuring the descendants of missing service members who shared their personal stories. One particularly poignant speaker was Tony Soma, whose cousin, Major Martin J. Massucci of the U.S. Air Force, has been missing since October 1, 1965. Soma spoke about the daily reminders of his cousin he carries with him, including a bracelet emblazoned with Massucci’s name. “The reminders are endless. But what do you do about it? How do you handle it?” he pondered, clearly moved as he recalled fond memories of his cousin, who he described as “larger than life.”
Personal Stories of Loss and Hope
Another heartfelt tribute came from Bruce Johnson, who spoke of his father, Lt. Col. Bruce G. Johnson, missing in action since June 10, 1965. Johnson looked back on his mother’s tireless efforts to keep hope alive, including being a key figure in the creation of the POW/MIA flag. He warmly remembered the anguish on the day when the last POWs were released during the Vietnam War, realizing then that his father would not be among them.
“To this day I miss him and his presence in our lives,” he said, sharing his enduring hope for the return of his father’s remains. Johnson beautifully expressed the impact this memorial has on him and his family. “It’s a beautiful gift and hope for us all,” he emphasized, highlighting the importance of remembrance.
A Heartwarming Honor
The ceremony reached a powerful climax with the roll call of the missing, each name resonating deeply with those gathered. Each name was met with the ringing of a bell, followed by a 21-gun salute and the haunting notes of Taps, played by a veteran who served in the U.S. Navy Reserves during the Afghanistan War.
During this emotional gathering, Marty Eddy, the Michigan coordinator for the National League of POW/MIA Families, received an award for her long-standing dedication and monumental contributions to the cause. A visibly surprised Eddy humbly accepted the honor, reflecting on her journey that began when she was just 14 years old. “To me, there is no higher calling,” she affirmed, her passion resonating through her words.
Continuing the Mission
As the gathering concluded, one thing was abundantly clear: the spirit of remembrance and dedication to the mission of accounting for all missing service members remains strong in Novi. The day served not only as a tribute to those who have sacrificed but also as a reminder to persevere, to keep the memories alive, and to provide hope for families still waiting for closure. Through shared experiences and stories, these individuals continue to honor their loved ones while contributing to a larger mission of remembrance and accountability.
With every shared story, every ringing bell, and every heartfelt word, the Michigan Remembers POW/MIA Memorial stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, uniting communities in honoring those who have yet to return home.
