Michigan honors World War II Veterans in Memorial Park

By Alan Muskowitz, Department of Michigan

Art Fishman and Frances Masters accepted the award on behalf of all Michigan’s WII veterans and Rosies

Michigan was famously known as the “Arsenal of Democracy” during WWII. In 2013, Michigan state Senate and House passed resolutions recognizing The Michigan WWII Legacy Memorial as the state’s tribute to its contributions during WWII.

Now, 10 years later, the board of the memorial was making good on their promise to Michigan’s WWII veterans and Rosie the Riveters that a tribute to their sacrifice, both on the warfront and homefront, would have a permanent home in Royal Oak’s Memorial Park.

The Jewish War Veterans Dept. of Michigan have been longtime supporters of The Michigan WWII Legacy Memorial since JWV-MI Sr. Vice Commander Art Fishman introduced the project to them over a decade ago. They’ve been regular attendees at the memorial’s annual fundraising galas where Fishman and fellow JWV-MI Guy Stern have both been honored with the organization’s Victory Award.

JWV-MI have been regular financial contributors to the memorial project and purchasers of bricks for the Walk of Honor. Their latest donation came on the morning of the dedication when representatives of the JWV-MI gathered at the site for a special check presentation to the memorial board.

The highlight of the day was the official dedication of the memorial when Fishman, 96-, and 101-year-old Frances Masters, an original Rosie the Riveter, received standing ovations from the stage. The two were chosen to officially accept the memorial on behalf of all Michigan’s WWII veterans and Rosies.

Fishman, who served in the Navy, has volunteered tirelessly on behalf of the memorial project for the last 10 years. Even in the days leading up to the dedication you could find him assisting board members in the positioning of the brick pavers donated by all three JWV Michigan posts.

Volume 77. Number 3. 2023

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VA Secretary McDonough’s Letter of Support and NC Lischinsky’s Reply

The Honorable Denis McDonough wrote to JWV stating that the VA “stands with [us] during this tragic time for the Jewish people in Israel, in the United States and around the world.”

National Commander Barry Lischinsky responded “[their] words demonstrate solidarity and unity and underscore the meaning of We Stand with Israel.”

Both letters can be read in their entirety here:

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JWV’s Statement on Hamas Attack on Israel

Today, in the early morning hours of Shabbat, the terrorist group Hamas (Islamic Resistance Movement) launched an unprovoked and vicious surprise attack on Israel, killing and wounding many Israeli civilian men, women, and children.

“JWV condemns the assault against Israel and emphasizes that terrorist actions are never justified. JWV supports Israel, offers condolences to those who lost loved ones, offers prayers for the wounded and those who have been kidnapped by Hamas,” said National Commander Colonel Barry Lischinsky, USA (Retired). Lischinsky continued “JWV stands with Israel, its military, and its citizens and calls on our members and all Americans to join us in condemning this terrorist attack.”

JWV will continue to monitor details as events unfold.

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About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members and veterans, fights antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.

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