Michigan Vietnam Monument is dedicated Nov. 11

The Vietnam Monument Commission of Michigan will dedicate the state's Vietnam Monument at 11 a.m., Nov. 11. The newly constructed monument is a tribute to the 2,653 men and one woman from Michigan who lost their lives in the Vietnam War.

The Michigan Vietnam Monument is located in Veteran's Memorial Park, in front of the Hall of Justice between Allegan and Ottawa Street, three blocks west of the state Capitol building. Parking is available off Ottawa Street

Highlights of the event include a military aircraft fly-over, interment of dogtags for the 2,654 troops killed or missing in action, a tribute video commemorating living veterans, music by the 70th Division band and bagpiper Michael Jacobi

Speakers for the dedication include Peter Lemon, the state's youngest Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient; Lt Gov. Richard Posthumus; Alan Gordon, designer of the Monument; Brig. Gen. John Kulhavi, chairperson of the Vietnam Monument Commission; and Keith King, chairperson of Public Relations Committee of the VMC.

The band begins playing at 10:30, followed by the dedication at 11 that concludes with a wreath-laying ceremony at 12:10 p.m.