AMY CHESTERTON
BOARD CHAIR
DONNA HOBAN, M.D.
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
AARON TURK
VICE CHAIR
JESSICA T. GREGORY
SECRETARY
EDWARD RUSSELL, III
TREASURER
MAUREEN BERNDTSON
SIERRA DONAVEN
RACHELLE ECONOMY
CHARLES HUEBNER
SCOTTIE KNIGHT
RICHARD LUEDERS
SALVADOR MARTINEZ
JODIE RAPPE, M.D.
NICK RITTS
LISA VALLEE-SMITH
TERENCE THOMAS
KELLY WALSH
MARIA MILLER
PRESIDENT AND CEO
REV. DREW VAN CULIN
BOARD CHAPLAIN
At The War Memorial, our mission is to honor those who served, enrich our community, and deliver exceptional experiences. This mission is rooted in the Alger family’s enduring legacy of service—a legacy that continues to inspire our work today.
For over a century, the Alger family has exemplified a profound commitment to service, both to our nation and community. General Russell A. Alger, a Civil War veteran, served as Michigan’s Governor and U.S. Secretary of War, dedicating his life to service and leadership. His son, Russell A. Alger Jr., was a prominent businessman and philanthropist who carried this legacy forward. In 1910, he and his wife, Marion Jarves Alger, built The Moorings as a family estate on the shores of Lake St. Clair. Marion devoted herself to impacting the region, co-founding the Neighborhood Club, helping establish Grosse Pointe’s first public library, and playing a key role in founding Cottage Hospital in Grosse Pointe Farms. After Russell Jr.’s passing in 1930, the family sought a way for The Moorings to serve the community. In 1949, it was dedicated as The War Memorial, both as a tribute to the 3,500 Grosse Pointers who served in World War II and as a center for education, culture, and civic engagement. This enduring spirit of service drives us forward and provides the foundation of our 5-Year Strategic Plan as we continue to honor, inspire, and serve for generations to come.
Our new strategic plan sets a bold vision for growth, impact, and sustainability:
• Enhance and expand veterans programming and support.
• Strengthen The War Memorial’s presence as a leading regional arts, culture, and humanities center.
• Preserve and invest in our historic estate to serve future generations.
• Welcome an increase of visitors to campus through an expansion of enrichment experiences and diverse programming.
• Advance financial sustainability through strategic growth and philanthropy.
• Foster a culture of excellence by attracting and retaining top talent.
These initiatives are guided by newly established core values that continue to shape our work ahead:
• Curiosity – Leading with imagination to drive innovation
• Inclusivity – Creating a welcoming environment for all
LIVE INSPIRED MAGAZINE
MARCH | APRIL 2025 ISSUE
EDITORS: Leah Celebi, Brett Pulte
WRITER: Alex Szwarc
ART DIRECTION & DESIGN: Wendy Christie
PHOTOGRAPHY: Inner Circle Photography, unless otherwise noted
SPECIAL THANKS: Grosse Pointe Magazine
LIVE INSPIRED MAGAZINE IS A PUBLICATION OF LIVE INSPIRED PRODUCTIONS AT THE WAR MEMORIAL.
• Excellence – Striving for the highest standards
• Responsibility – Upholding our legacy and commitment to veterans
Our strategic plan is deeply shaped by listening sessions and a community survey of over 300 respondents. The results reinforced our strengths, identified opportunities for growth, and informed the development of the plan’s key initiatives.
This plan is more than a roadmap—it is our pledge to honor our past while forging a vibrant future. We are excited to embark on this journey with you and invite you to be part of The War Memorial’s next chapter.
For Arthur “Chip” Rohde Jr., there is no service higher than service to your country.
“You can have a job, and many people have great jobs and make a lot of money,” he said. “You go in the military, and you are serving and thanking the country that provided for you growing up. We take freedom for granted.”
The 77-year-old Rohde, of Grosse Pointe Farms, grew up in Grosse Pointe Shores. His late father, Arthur Rohde Sr., served in World War II and has his name on the World War II Honor Roll plaque located inside the Alger House at The War Memeorial. His father isn’t the only member of the family honored at our nonprofit organization, as Rohde’s name is listed on the Vietnam War Honor Roll plaque.
Already with a degree from the University of Michigan, Rohde was commissioned as an ensign in the U.S. Navy in December 1969.
In January 1970, he went to Panama City to join the Naval Research and Development Lab, where minesweepers were assigned. About a year and half later, Rohde was assigned to a flotilla that was capable of doing minesweeping operations anywhere in the world.
Minesweepers in the Vietnam War were tasked with clearing underwater mines from waterways. Rohde described the mines as bottom mines, like torpedoes.
“Navy jets would drop them in the water,” he said. “The mines hit the
water and sit on the bottom.”
Rohde said the Navy mined every harbor in North Vietnam so that ships bringing resources like food and fuel to enemy forces could not come through. He arrived in Vietnam in December 1972 on the USS Dubuque, an amphibious transport dock. Rohde spent six months in and near Vietnam, part of Operation End Sweep.
the chief of Naval operations, Admiral J.L. Holloway III.
“Before that, jets would fly in with half a dozen mines under the wings and they would fly in and know where the drop points were,” he said. “We put them all over the place. It was an active war zone until the peace agreement was signed.”
The Paris Peace Accords officially ended the war and were signed on Jan. 27, 1973.
The job of the Mobile Mine Counter Measures Group Task Force, which Rohde was part of, was to remove the mines from harbors.
“The day it was signed, we got orders to go in sweeping the mines,” Rohde said. “You’d have 100 men on a ship going through a live minefield. A helicopter with a pilot and co-pilot would drag a sled through and it would have the same effect as a ship going through.”
A highlight of Rohde’s military service came in February 1973 when he had the chance to brief
“He came out because it was such an important operation,” he said. “As part of our team, I got a chance to brief him. He was interested in how we were doing, what we were doing and how we were doing it.”
Reflecting on the Vietnam War, Rohde, who was honorably discharged in May 1973 as a lieutenant, said that war is terrible. “When countries decide they are going to take on each other, both sides lose,” he said. “There was no winner in the Vietnam War. What we should learn from that is that before engaging in combat, you look to alternatives to settle disputes. The war will end eventually, but at a very high price.”
Interested in hearing more stories from the Vietnam War?
For the Vietnam War 50th Commemoration, The War Memorial is embarking on a yearlong series to honor those who served in the conflict, and educate the public on the war through several events and programs in 2025. For more details on the commemoration, visit warmemorial.org/Vietnam.
Coffee and Conversation
Thursday, March 6 | 8am
Whether you're recently discharged or a seasoned veteran, The War Memorial’s Vet-to-Vet gathering is a chance to join in camaraderie and endless stories of courage and honor. Your service deserves recognition, and this event is our way of saying thank you for your dedication and sacrifice.
Sunday, March 16 | 2pm
Dr. Judy Jacobs returns for part two of the Conflict and Healing Lecture Series with an insightful discussion on navigating daily stress. In this lecture, she will explore different types of stress, the causes and effects of chronic stress on the body, and practical strategies for coping and resilience..
Saturday, March 29 | 11am
Vietnam War-era Veterans, their families, and guests are invited to join us for a luncheon as we gather to honor and thank those who served our country on National Vietnam War Veterans Day. The event will include featured speakers, pinning ceremony, rifle salute, and a resource fair.
LUCK OF THE IRISH DINNER & CONCERT
Friday, March 7 | 6:30 pm
Cost: Concert Only: $25 | Dinner & Concert: $65
This intimate Friday night event features our own spin on traditional Irish fare with a three-course menu from Executive Chef, Joe Paxton. Guinness and specialty cocktails will be on hand at the bar while you enjoy an onstage performance of Gaelic tunes from Black Murray Band.
CLASSIC:
Whiskey, Bourbon, Cocktails & Cigars
Friday, March 21 | 6-10:30pm
Cost: $40-100
This is your chance to taste a selection of single malt and blended Scotch, Irish, bourbon, rye, Tennessee, Japanese, Canadian, small batch craft-distilled whiskies and single grain distilled delights. The Whiskey Classic will feature dozens of whiskeys and bourbons from locally produced brands to those across the country and around the globe. For the wine lovers dozens of robust reds and crisp whites will be available.
WINTER BRUNCH SERIES: DAVE BENETT BAND
Sunday, March 30 | 11:00am
Cost: Concert Only: $35 | Brunch & Concert: $80 VIP & Table options available
We cap off our annual Winter Brunch and Concert Series with the hot musical stylings of the Dave Bennett Band. Join us for this final concert that offers a brunch curated by The War Memorial's executive chef team, flowing Mimosas, and music that will melt Winter's Chill.
Sunday, April 13 | 10:30am-1:30pm
Cost: Children 3+: $45 | Adults: $67.50
Hop on over to The War Memorial this Spring for our annual Bunny Brunch! Surprise your little one with a visit from the Easter Bunny while you enjoy a delicious Sunday morning brunch with your family.
Following the brunch, our friend the Easter Bunny, will welcome everyone down to the back lawn for a one-of-a-kind HELICOPTER EGG DROP! This child-friendly egg hunt will be one to remember as little ones search for specific-colored eggs to be redeemed for traditional treats and prizes!
Don't miss out on these and other experiences at The War Memorial. For full lineup, event details, and to purchase tickets visit www.warmemorial.org/eventcalendar
More information and tickets available, at www.warmemorial.org/vietnam or call 313.881.7511
This year, The War Memorial proudly joins the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration as an official Commemorative Partner, standing alongside thousands of organizations with a central mission mission to honor and thank Vietnam veterans and their families for their service, valor, and sacrifice.
2025 Commemoration Series
29-NOVEMBER 11
Most events in this series are free — registration is required. Full lineup, details, and ticket pricing is available at www.warmemorial.org/vietnam
The nation called...they answered.
As a commemorative partner, The War Memorial is dedicated to ensuring that the bravery of these men and women is recognized and remembered. Our lineup of events serves to pay tribute to their service and foster meaningful conversations about the war’s impact and lasting legacy.
An Evening with Karl Marlantes: Echoes of the Vietnam War
Best-selling author of ‘Matterhorn’ and ‘What It’s Like to Go to War’
WHEN: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9
TIME: 6pm
COST: $10-$55 | VIP option and veteran discount available
Boots on the Ground: A Conversation with Elizabeth Partridge Award-winning Author of 'Boots on the Ground'
WHEN: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3 & SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4
TIME: See website for details
COST: October 3 school visits | Free October 4 presentation | $15
HONOR THEIR SERVICE—SUPPORT THEIR LEGACY
For many Vietnam veterans, the recognition they deserved never came. As we mark this final year of commemoration, The War Memorial is dedicated to ensuring their bravery is honored. By sponsoring our Vietnam War Commemoration series, you help create meaningful tributes and lasting conversations about their sacrifice.
Sponsorships are available for both the full series and individual events. Learn more at warmemorial.org/sponsorships or scan the QR code.
Patriotic Programming at The War Memorial is sponsored in part by:
Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Luncheon
Featuring speakers, pinning ceremony, rifle salute, and resource fair
WHEN: SATURDAY, MARCH 29 | 11am
Veterans Day Breakfast
Featuring Keynote by Jim McCloughan, Medal of Honor Recipient and Vietnam Veteran
WHEN: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 | 8am
Managing the Stressors of the Day Conflict and Healing Lecture Series-Part Two
WHEN: SUNDAY, MARCH 16 | 2pm
Vietnam Through the Lens: The James “Skip” Liberty Story
Film screening with filmmaker Tommy Dilger
WHEN: THURSDAY, JUNE 18 | 6pm
Flying the P-3 Orion: A Vietnam War Pilot’s Story
Presentation by Navy Captain (Ret.) Randy Hotton
WHEN: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 | 6pm
AC-119 Gunships in Vietnam: Stingers and Shadows
Presentation by author Barry Levine
WHEN: SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2 | 2pm
The War Memorial’s classes and activities are open to the public!
Everyone is welcome –membership or residency is not necessary. We continue to offer new and engaging programing for all ages throughout the year. Be sure to visit our website for full details and calendar.
Residency within the Grosse Pointe Public School System district is necessary for Middle School Dances.
MAH JONG
Wednesdays, 10 – 11am
February 19 – March 26
April 2 – May 7
COCKTAIL CLASS: WHISKEY BUSINESS
Thursday, April 24 | 6:30 – 8:30pm
YOU & ME: STORYTIME ART FOR KIDS
Tuesdays, 10 – 11am April 1 – May 6
BREATHING FOR STRESS RELIEF
Fridays, 5:30 – 6:15pm
March 14 – April 18 (Omit 3/28)
BREATH & MOVEMENT FOR HEALING
Sundays, 10:15 – 11:15am
March 9 – April 13 (Omit 3/30)
ADULT FENCING
Mondays, 7:40 – 8:25pm
March 24 – April 28 [Omit 4/21]
TAI CHI W/SUSAN SMITH
Wednesdays, 10 – 11am
February 19 – March 26
April 2 – May 7
BASIC BIKE MAINTENANCE
Thursday, April 24 | 6:30 – 8:30pm
BELLYDANCE FOR EVERYBODY
Tuesdays, 7 – 8pm April 8 – May 13
LINE DANCING
Wednesdays, 6 – 7pm
March 5 – April 9
BEGINNER BALLROOM BASICS: WALTZ & RUMBA
Wednesdays, 7 – 7:50pm
April 15 – May 20
INTERMEDIATE BALLROOM BASICS: CHA CHA
Wednesdays, 8 – 8:50pm April 15 – May 20
CREATIVE ARTS
LEARN TO PAINT LIKE BOB ROSS
Saturday, March 22 | 1 – 4pm Friday, April 18 | 6 – 9pm
WATERCOLOR PAINTING
Wednesdays, 7:00 – 8:30pm
March 5 – April 9
April 16 – May 21
INTRO TO DRAWING
Thursdays, 6:30 – 8pm
March 6 – April 10
April 17 – May 22
Campville USA returns to The War Memorial this summer! Build, play, learn, and grow in our series of camps for kids and teens, ages 5+. June through August. More details coming soon!
www.warmemorial.org/campville
Thursday, April 24
MIDDLE SCHOOL DANCES
Visit warmemorial.org/eventcalendar for specific details and attendance requirements.
Classes run year-round – visit warmemorial.org/drivertraining for a full list of sessions and attendance requirements.
Second Saturdays @ TMW — A Fun morning out for the whole family!
SING IN SPRING
March 8 | 9am
EARTH EXPLORERS
April 12 | 9am
Cost: Child ticket $10 Adults and coffee Free
PRE-K PROM
Grab your little sweetheart and come dance the wiggles away at our Pre-K Prom! Sunday, March 9 | 3pm
Cost: Child ticket $30
Adult ticket $15
For full details on classes and activities, please visit www.warmemorial.org/classes or call 313.881.7511
MODERN MANNERS YOUTH ETIQUETTE CLASS
Sunday, March 16 | 1 – 3pm
ELENA VICTORIA SPRING SEWING WORKSHOP
Sunday, April 13 | 1 – 4pm
DISCOVER THE WORLD THROUGH ART!
Thursdays, 5:30 – 6:30pm March 6 – April 10
KIDS ART: FUN FOOD!
Thursdays, 5:30 – 6:30pm April 17 – May 22
FENCING SESSIONS
March 24 – April 28
Beginner Fencing (Ages 6-18) Mondays, 6 – 6:45pm
Intermediate Fencing (Ages 6– 18) Mondays, 6:50 – 7:35pm
TUMBLEBUNNIES BALLET (Ages 3 – 5)
Wednesdays, 5 – 5:30pm March 5 – April 9
TUMBLEBUNNIES BALLET (Ages 5 – 7) Thursdays, 5 – 5:30pm March 6 – April 10
TUMBLEBUNNIES GYMNASTICS (WEDNESDAYS)
March 5 – April 9
AGES 18mo – 3 | 6 – 6:30pm AGES 3 – 5 | 6:35 – 7:05pm AGES 5 – 7 | 7:10 – 7:40pm
TUMBLEBUNNIES GYMNASTICS (THURSDAYS)
March 6 – April 10
AGES 18mo – 3 | 5:30 – 6pm AGES 3 – 5 | 6:05 – 6:35pm AGES 5 – 7 | 6:40 – 7:10pm
TUMBLEBUNNIES GYMNASTICS (FRIDAY MORNINGS)
March 7 – April 11
AGES 18mo – 3 | 9:30 – 10am
AGES 3 – 4 | 10:05 – 10:35am
BABYSITTER SAFETY WITH OPTIONAL PET SITTER SAFETY Sunday, March 16 | 9am – 3pm Pet Sitter add-on: 3 – 4pm
TINKERGARTEN 9-WEEK SESSION Tuesdays 10:30 – 11:30am April 22 – May 27
New classes are added on a continual basis. For full details for every class and activity, please visit www.warmemorial.org or call 313.881.7511
MAR 5
Tek Ready Workshop: TEK FOR SENIORS
MAR 11
SILENT BOOK CLUB
MAR 29 VIETNAM VETERAN LUNCH
APR 12
Second Saturdays: EARTH EXPLORERS
MAR 6 VET-TO-VET
MAR 16 Modern Manners: YOUTH ETIQUTTE
MAR 30 Winter Brunch Series: DAVE BENNETT BAND
APR 13 BUNNY BRUNCH
MAR 7 LUCK OF THE IRISH DINNER AND CONCERT
MAR 16 MANAGING THE STRESSORS OF THE DAY
MAR 8
Second Saturdays: SING IN SPRING
MAR 21 WHISKEY CLASSIC APR 5 YA SALSA DANCE PARTY
APR 8 SILENT BOOK CLUB
MAR 9 PRE-K PROM
MAR 28
Dinner and Remarks: AN EVENING WITH CHEF JOE
APR 9 EVENING WITH KARL MARLANTES APR 24 MIDDLE SCHOOL DANCE
MAY 4 GROSSE POINTE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CONCERT
MAY 21
AN EVENING OF RED, WHITE & BLUE