SERVICE SPOTLIGHT: Vietnam Veteran pleased with The War Memorial's direction
Noteveryone who serves in the military is involved in combat situations. In fact, the U.S. Department of Defense states that approximately 27% of Vietnam veterans served in a combat zone, with others working in support roles. Dr. Bill Jennings falls into the latter category. His name is listed on the Vietnam War Honor Roll plaque located inside the Alger at the War Memorial.
Jennings, a 78-yearold resident of Grosse Pointe Woods, enlisted in the Navy in January 1968. While in the Navy Reserve from 1968 to 1971, he attended dental school at the University of Michigan. He graduated from dental school in 1971, was on active duty from 1971 to 1973, then inactive reserves until 1978.
LIVE INSPIRED MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
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“Behind the tender was a floating warehouse connected to a floating dry dock. There were 1,200 servicemen on the entire floating base at Holy Loch.”
In response to what he wants younger folks to know about the Vietnam War and that period of American history, Jennings said the population was very divided on feelings about the war.
“In the draft board’s mind, I was of more use to them as a dentist than I would be as a foot soldier.
“While I was in college and dental school, the draft evolved. After I enlisted in 1968, the lottery came about, and the draft was abolished by the time I left the military in 1978.”
In 1971, Jennings received basic training at Naval Station Great Lakes in Illinois.
For the majority of his active-duty service, Lt. Jennings was stationed with a nuclear submarine squadron at Holy Loch, Scotland. He worked as an assistant dental officer aboard the USS Canopus, a ballistic submarine tender. As one of three dentists, Jennings was responsible for dental care of the ship’s personnel and submarine crews of the 10 subs in the squadron, as they rotated to and from the United States.
“We had everything from foundries to canvas and machine shops, and missile and torpedo repair shops” he shared.
“When I came home on leave, I was instructed not to travel in military uniform. It felt funny that I would be that unpopular stateside, that service to country would be so misunderstood and unappreciated,” he said.
“What I experienced was nothing compared to what some others went through. This is what lead me to my involvement in support of all returning veterans.”
In civilian life, he spent over 45 years as a dentist. He had his own practice, retiring in 2018 from Jennings Dental Associates in Grosse Pointe.
Jennings was on The War Memorial Board of Directors from 2007 to 2015, serving as Chairman from 2012 to 2014.
“The organization went through major restructuring during my tenure on the board,” he said. “I’m happy to see The War Memorial in such good condition now, with a solid financial foundation and broad community appeal.”
He has since been involved with the Selfridge Air National Guard Base Community Council, the International Shipmasters Association, Dossins Great Lakes Museum, and the Grosse Pointe Sunrise Rotary.
Jennings and his wife Anne were married in 1985 and have two children and three grandchildren. To learn more about The War Memorial’s Vietnam War Commemoration Celebration, visit warmemorial.org/vietnam.
Every year, The War Memorial dedicates a time to honor our community’s veterans, military members, and their families.
Memorial Week allows all of us to recognize, reflect, and pay our respects as a community.
MEMORIAL WEEK
An Evening of Red, White, and Blue
An Evening of Red, White, and Blue is The War Memorial’s premiere fundraising gala event. This event aims to raise monies to support our Historic House Fund and will continue to aid in restoring and preserving our historic buildings and grounds, specifically the 1910 Alger House. Guests will enjoy a strolling reception, complete with live music and gourmet hors d'oeuvres, followed by a seated dinner in our grand ballroom, and a lively auction offering exclusive items and experiences. Your generosity ensures that The War Memorial continues to honor those who served, enrich our community, and provide exceptional experiences for generations to come.
WHEN: WEDNESDAY, MAY 21
TIME: 5:30pm
COST: $225
Our Community Salutes
Each year, Our Community Salutes, a national nonprofit organization, honors high school students who have made the extraordinary decision to enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces following graduation. This spring, The War Memorial is proud to open its doors in tribute to these remarkable young men and women as they take the oath of enlistment. This powerful and moving ceremony celebrates each enlistee individually, reminding all in attendance of the courage, commitment, and selflessness it takes to serve. In honoring these future service members, we reaffirm our own dedication to supporting those who choose to protect and defend our nation.
WHEN: THURSDAY, MAY 22
TIME: 7pm
COST: Free and open to the public
Memorial Day Service
Memorial Week culminates on Memorial Day as a moving and reverent service is held on the back lawn. During this time-honored ceremony, the names of Grosse Pointe residents who lost their lives in service of our country are read. Remembering those who gave their lives for our freedoms and continuing to honor those who still serve and fight for our nation, will be the focus of the event. The event features a formal ceremony, wreath placement, and time-honored traditions — all set against the distinguished backdrop of Lake St. Clair — and concludes with a solemn moment of reflection, followed by a moving bagpipe rendition of Amazing Grace.
WHEN: MONDAY, MAY 26
TIME: 10am
COST: Free and open to the public
All SummerFest events are free and open to everyone from everywhere! Bring your lawn chair, blanket, or enjoy the festival from your boat! Grounds open at 6pm for movies and 6:30pm for concerts, rain or shine.
warmemorial.org/summerfest
For six days throughout the summer, The War Memorial’s lakefront grounds will be transformed into a festival of free summertime fun.
Thank you to our sponsor
Celebrate Summer in Metro-Detroit’s Backyard
For many Metro-Detroit families, summertime means family fun on the lake — and at The War Memorial, that means SummerFest! Our annual festival returns this year with family-friendly concerts and movies on our lakefront lawn.
No summer festival would be complete without awesome eats, and SummerFest promises to deliver a mouth-watering menu. The War Memorial’s talented culinary team, led by executive chef Joe Paxton, will serve up a taste of Americana and traditional summertime fare. A full bar, including water, a variety of sodas, beer, wine, and liquor, will be available to enhance your experience! You’re welcome to bring your own picnic, but by Michigan law, no outside alcoholic beverages may be brought to SummerFest.
VIP TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE
While SummerFest concerts are completely free to the public, you can support The War Memorial’s commitment to providing low-cost family-friendly programming by purchasing a VIP ticket! VIP tickets include reserved seating areas on both our balcony and near the front of the stage, so you can leave your chairs at home. VIP area also includes a private bar, and a ticket for a complimentary beverage.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
WEDNESDAY, JULY 16 7:30pm
Smooth, soulful, and timeless
KIMMIE HORN
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13 7:30pm
R&B, pop, and funk
WEDNESDAY, JULY 23 7pm
Family-friendly movie DOGMAN
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20 7pm
Award-winning feature WICKED:
WEDNESDAY, JULY 30 7:30pm
Country, grit, and groove
DEVIN SCILLIAN & ARIZONA SON
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27 7:30pm
Pure Motown magic
DREY SKONEI & THE KLOUDS
BE A SPONSOR! If you are interested in sponsoring our biggest event of the summer, contact the Development Department at 313.332.4011 or email koliver@warmemorial.org.
PUZZLE PALOOZA
Ready, set, puzzle! Gather your sharpest-minded friends or family members and join us for the War Memorial’s first-ever Puzzle Palooza—a fast-paced, fun-filled evening of team jigsaw puzzle competition. Teams of 2, 3, or 4 will race against the clock—and each other—to see who can complete a 1000-piece puzzle the fastest. Whether you're in it to win or just looking for a spirited night out, Puzzle Palooza promises laughter, strategy, and plenty of “YES!” moments.
Bring your best focus, fastest fingers, and a competitive spirit. Prizes awarded to top finishers!
WHEN: THURSDAY, MAY 29
TIME: 6pm
COST: $25 per person
AWAKEN YOUR SENSES
An Evening of Yin Yoga, Massage & Sound Bath
Breathe deep, gently stretch, and reconnect under the open sky during this calming evening of restorative yoga and immersive sound healing on the lakeside lawn. With Lake St. Clair as your backdrop and the soothing sounds of nature all around, you'll be guided through yin and restorative yoga poses and breathwork designed to release tension and promote relaxation.
THURSDAY NIGHT SOCIAL
A Low Country Shrimp Boil
Join us for an evening of Southerninspired flavors, craft brews, and lakeside charm!
Executive Chef Joe Paxton brings his culinary passion for coastal Southern cuisine to the shared table with a traditional Low Country Shrimp Boil—a vibrant spread of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, served family-style in the spirit of community and connection. Come for a curated tasting of regional craft beers, live music that is ideal for a summer evening, and the breathtaking views of Lake St. Clair just beyond the windows. It’s the perfect way to start the season— great food, good company, and the unmistakable energy of a summer night on the lake.
WHEN: THURSDAY, JUNE 5
TIME: 6:30pm
COST: $50 per person, $65 with beer tasting
WINE DOWN
A Tasting Experience with Michael Bottigliero
Celebrate the art of wine with an immersive tasting experience led by acclaimed sommelier Michael Bottigliero, as featured on the Steve Harvey Show. Over the course of the evening, guests will explore five exceptional wines, each hand-selected for its distinct story, character, and craftsmanship. Michael will guide the tasting with expert insight and approachable charm, offering a deeper appreciation for the traditions and techniques behind each pour.
WHEN: SUNDAY, JUNE 8
TIME: 6pm
COST: $50 per person
WHEN: THURSDAY, JUNE 12
TIME: 7pm
COST: $80 per person
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.
Enrichment Programs are sponsored by Service Floor Covering, Inc.
CLASSES & ACTIVITIES
ADULT ENRICHMENT
UNIQUE OFFERINGS
FRETBOARD FOCUS –GUITAR, UKELE, BASS CLASS
Mondays, 7–8pm May 12 – June 30
GEMSTONE PENDANT WORKSHOP W/ TWISTFUL THINKING Saturday, July 26 | 1–6pm
STERLING SILVER SPINNER RING WORKSHOP W/ TWISTFUL THINKING Saturday, August 23 | 1–6pm
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)
HEALTH, WELLNESS & SPORTS
ADULT FENCING
Mondays, 7:40–8:25pm May 5 – June 9
BASIC BIKE MAINTENANCE Thursday, May 22 | 6:30–8:30pm
SELF DEFENSE: MEN, WOMEN & TEENS Tuesday, June 3 | 6:30–8:30pm
FIRST AID & ADULT/PEDIATRIC
CPR & AED
Tuesday, June 17 | 6–9:30pm Tuesday, August 12 | 6–9:30pm
MUSIC & DANCE
BELLYDANCE FOR EVERYBODY
Tuesdays, 7–8pm April 8 – May 13
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
Friday, June 20 | 6–9pm
WATERCOLOR PAINTING
Wednesdays, 7–8:30pm June 4 – July 16 (Omit 7/2)
INTRO TO DRAWING
Thursdays, 6:30–8pm June 5 – July 17 (Omit 7/3)
GROSSE POINTE DRIVING SCHOOL
Classes run year-round – visit warmemorial.org/drivertraining for a full list of sessions and attendance requirements.
MORE INFO
For full details on classes and activities, please visit www.warmemorial.org/classes or call 313.881.7511
YOUTH ENRICHMENT
CREATIVE ARTS
YOU & ME: STORYTIME ART FOR KIDS
Tuesdays, 9–10am
April 22 – May 27
Purchase as a series or individually
ELENA VICTORIA MOTHERS DAY SEWING WORKSHOP
Sunday, May 4 | 1–4pm
KIDS ART: FUN FOOD!
Thursdays, 5:30–6:30pm April 17 – May 22
KIDS IMAGINATIVE DRAWING & PAINTING
Thursdays, 5:30–6:30pm June 5 – July 17 (Omit 7/3)
SPORTS & GAMES
FENCING SESSIONS
May 5 – June 9
July 7 – August 4
BEGINNER FENCING (Ages 6-18)
Mondays, 6–6:45pm
INTERMEDIATE FENCING (Ages 6-18)
Mondays, 6:50–7:35pm
MUSIC & DANCE
TUMBLEBUNNIES CHEER BUNNIES
Thursdays, 5–5:30pm
June 26 – August 21
TUMBLEBUNNIES GYMNASTICS (THURSDAYS)
June 26 – August 21
AGES 18mo – 3 | 5:30–6pm
AGES 3 – 5 | 6:05–6:35pm
AGES 5 – 7 | 6:40–7:10pm
SUMMERTIME DAY CAMPS FOR KIDS AND TEENS!
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. Register now! www.warmemorial.org/campville
