By: Debbie Hardy
Michigan Heroes Museum Honoring Michigan’s Veterans And Astronauts
There’s a gem of an institution in Michigan dedicated to honor, respect, and remember all of Michigan’s veterans and astronauts. A special place for special people!
The Michigan Heroes Museum (formerly Michigan’s Military & Space Heroes Museum) is located on Weiss Road in Frankenmuth.
This is the only museum devoted to the wartime experiences of men and women from the state of Michigan. Its mission is to honor, respect, and remember the Michigan men and women who answered the call to military service during America’s seven foreign wars – from the Spanish-American War to the current War on Terrorism.
With more than 140 displays and a collection of more than 700 exhibition items, the museum presents stories devoted to Michigan’s governors; 15 astronauts; and 31 Medal of Honor recipients, making it the nation’s largest Medal of Honor collection on display.
Established in 1980 as Michigan’s Military & Space Heroes Museum, Stan Bozich opened it in the basement of the School Haus Square building on Frankenmuth’s Main Street. Then, in 1985, Stan and a delegation from the city obtained a grant from the State of Michigan to purchase a two-acre parcel of land on Weiss Street.
With financial support from local businesses, families, and veterans groups, a building was erected; and in 1987 the museum’s collection moved into its permanent home. The building has been expanded to enable more of the museum’s collection to be displayed for the thousands of visitors it welcomes
each year. John Ryder is currently the museum’s Executive Director.
Teachers and administrators can schedule field trips for students to experience what it is like to be in the trenches fighting in Russia, or flying aboard the Space Shuttle. Guided tours of the seven exhibition areas provide students with an opportunity to examine military history.
Families and individuals are welcome. Admission prices range from $7 for adults to $3 for ages 6-17; with discounts for seniors and college students. Children age 5 and under are free.
The museum is looking for people interested in telling about the brave men and women honored in the museum. Volunteer positions and openings include docents to greet guests and answer questions about the museum. Volunteers can also assist with curating, programs, operations, and public affairs.
“THIS IS THE ONLY MUSEUM DEVOTED TO THE WARTIME EXPERIENCES OF MEN AND WOMEN FROM THE STATE OF MICHIGAN”
Volunteer positions are open to all individuals at least 15 years old who will commit to a minimum of 8 hours a month. They need not have any military ties, but should have an interest in military history… and plenty of passion and energy! Training is provided. Submit applications to the Museum Executive Director John Ryder if interested.
Michigan Heroes Museum
(formerly Michigan’s Military & Space Heroes Museum)
1250 Weiss Rd.
Frankenmuth MI 48734
Open 10:00 am to 5:00 pm every day
(Call for holiday hours)
989.652.8005
www.michigansmilitarymuseum.com
Info@michigansmilitarymuseum.com
