Answering the Call to Serve: Area High School Seniors Enlisting in U.S. Armed Services to be Recognized at The War Memorial
GROSSE POINTE FARMS, April 8, 2026 – The War Memorial is honored to host an Our Community Salutes (OCS) of Detroit enlistee recognition ceremony. This year’s ceremony, the only one of its kind in Michigan, will take place on Tuesday, May 5 at 6:30 p.m.
Since 2009, OCS - USA has conducted hundreds of recognition ceremonies nationwide, honoring tens of thousands of new enlistees and their families.
“We’re honored to welcome the Class of 2026 and their families to the Our Community Salutes ceremony — a proud, community-wide tribute to the young people of metro Detroit who’ve chosen to serve our country,” Maria Miller, president and CEO of The War Memorial, said. “Their decision to enlist demonstrates exceptional courage, commitment, and selflessness, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to recognize their service at The War Memorial.”
This special evening is dedicated to these young men and women who are enlisting in the Armed Forces, and their families, acknowledging their commitment to serve our nation. The event provides a meaningful opportunity for the community to express gratitude, offer support, and celebrate their transition into military service. This year’s featured speaker is Coast Guard Cmdr. Brett McCall, deputy commander of Sector Detroit.
“I am exceptionally proud of these brave young adults in Detroit who have taken the oath to protect our liberties and freedoms at a critical time,” said Dr. Kenneth Hartman, OCS - USA Founder and President. “We must do everything we can to honor and support them as they embark on their military journey.”
Going beyond recognition, the ceremony also creates a network of local support, as well as provide much-needed transitional resources to new enlistees. The recognition ceremony, held at The War Memorial, will begin at 6:30 p.m. followed by a resource fair and reception at 7:30 p.m.
For more information and to register for the ceremony, please click here.
About The War Memorial
The War Memorial, located on the shores of Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe Farms, is a nonprofit cultural and community center dedicated to honoring veterans, enriching lives, and bringing people together through meaningful experiences. For more than 75 years, The War Memorial has welcomed thousands of guests annually for arts and cultural programming, patriotic observances, educational opportunities, community events, and private gatherings across its historic lakefront property.
As a dynamic and forward-thinking hub for southeast Michigan, The War Memorial remains committed to fostering community engagement through accessible programs that recognize the service and sacrifice of veterans and provide opportunities that spark connection, learning, creativity, and civic engagement. The organization proudly upholds this legacy of service while creating a sense of belonging for everyone from everywhere.
About Our Community Salutes – USA
Founded in 2009, Our Community Salutes - USA is a national, non-profit organization that recognizes and honors young adults who plan to enlist into the military immediately after high school graduation. Going beyond recognition, OCS provides developmental programs, guidance, resources, and community support to new enlistees, and their families, as they transition into military service.
CONTACT:
Alex Szwarc, The War Memorial
Patriotic Programming and Communications Administrator
313.881.7514, aszwarc@warmemorial.org