Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation

306 South University Avenue Mount Pleasant, MI, 48858 United States

(989) 773-7322

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for all citizens of Isabella County, now and for generations to come, by attracting and holding permanent endowed funds from a wide range of donors, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Michigan POW/MIA Memorial Fund
Honoring Heroes. Uniting Communities.

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The Michigan POW/MIA Memorial Fund, held at the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation, was established to honor the more than 13,600 Michigan veterans who were prisoners of war or are still missing in action—from the Revolutionary War to present day - with a memorial installation. This permanent tribute, approved by the City of Mt. Pleasant, will be located in Island Park alongside the existing Vietnam Veterans Memorial, creating a powerful space for reflection, remembrance, and community connection.

The future memorial will feature a steel sculpture of an eternal flame, bronze statues of veterans, and a granite wall engraved with the names and birthplaces of Michigan’s POW/MIA service members. Separate areas within the memorial will pay tribute to veterans of World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and subsequent conflicts. Designed as a destination for families across the state, the Mt. Pleasant location was chosen for its central accessibility and tranquil surroundings.

“This is a gift to Michigan POW/MIA families from the people of Michigan,” said Doug Pickel, a longtime veterans’ advocate and trustee of the memorial fund. “Michigan veterans and their families have made significant sacrifices that deserve to be recognized and remembered.”

To support the $10.5 million fundraising goal, a variety of community-focused initiatives are being organized to raise awareness and generate support. One such effort includes a statewide food truck challenge, a unique and heartfelt event that blends community gathering with tribute, where proceeds benefit the memorial fund. Events like this reflect the fund’s commitment to honoring veterans not only through monuments, but also through meaningful engagement and education.

The fund is led by Doug Pickel of Trufant, Aaron Ashendorf of Muskegon (committee chair), and Rich Young of Mt. Pleasant (co-chair). In addition to financial contributions, the fund also seeks veterans who use sculpting to manage PTSD and may be interested in contributing to the memorial’s artistic elements. Those interested are encouraged to contact the Community Foundation for more information.

To donate or learn more about the Michigan POW/MIA Memorial Fund, please explore the giving opportunities available through the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation. Every contribution helps ensure that the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of Michigan’s POW/MIA veterans are remembered for generations to come.

Follow the POW/MIA Memorial Facebook group and Plaques of Honor - Murphy’s Legacy for more details.