VVA Detroit Chapter 9

Today we pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. We owe them an indescribable debt. We honor the memories of those we have lost.

Did you know that military children move 6 to 9 times during their school years, 3 times more than their civilian peers?

During the Month of the Military Child, we honor the strength, resilience, and sacrifice of these incredible kids who serve alongside their families every day.

We’re proud to support military and veteran families, because when a child has a strong, comforting place to stay during a loved one’s medical journey, it makes all the difference.

Join us in celebrating our military children this April. 💜

Today, we recognize National Vietnam Veterans Day, a moment to honor the service, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of those who answered the call.

The story of Vietnam Veterans of America Detroit Chapter 9 is one of continued impact, far beyond the battlefield. From rebuilding communities and supporting scholarships to advocating for veterans across Detroit, their legacy is defined by service that never stopped.

This is more than remembrance, it’s recognition.

A recognition that for many Vietnam veterans, the “welcome home” came far too late.

Today, we say it clearly:

Welcome home. And thank you.

Read the full story below:

https://vva9.org/chapter-news/a-legacy-forged-in-service-vietnam-veterans-day-and-the-impact-of-detroit-chapter-9/

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and dedication of women who shape our communities and our country.

From service members and veterans to military spouses and caregivers, women continue to make a lasting impact every day.

Join us in honoring their legacy.

Vietnam Veterans of America Reaffirms Unwavering Support for Our Troops. We ask that our fellow Americans remember to separate the war from the warrior. Our troops deserve our
respect, our support, and our unity. We stand firmly in support of our founding principle, ‘Never again will one generation of veterans abandon another.’ https://tinyurl.com/3cmd3est

The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced today that U.S. Army Air Forces Staff Sgt. Stephen J. Fatur, 19, of Slickville, Pennsylvania, killed during World War II, was accounted for on July 9, 2025.

Fatur's family recently received their full briefing on his identification, therefore, additional details on his identification can be shared.

During World War II, Fatur was assigned to 429th Bombardment Squadron, 2nd Bombardment Group, 15th Air Force. Fatur served as the tailgunner aboard a B-17G “Flying Fortress” bomber. On March 22, 1945, during a bombing mission near the village of Glinica, Poland, Fatur’s aircraft crashed. Seven of the ten crewmembers, including Fatur, were killed. His remains were not accounted for after the war.

Airman Accounted For From World War II (Fatur, S.) The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced today that U.S. Army Air Forces Staff Sgt. Stephen J. Fatur, 19, of Slickville, Pennsylvania, killed during World War II, was accounted for on July 9,

Honoring Service That Never Stops.

During the VVA Detroit Chapter 9 Members and Associates Meeting, held at the Detroit Masonic Temple, Paul Palazzolo, President of VVA Detroit Chapter 9, presented the Greatest Appreciation Plaque to Richard Legault, a dedicated Vietnam Veterans of America Service Officer based in Dearborn, Michigan.

Richard’s commitment embodies the true spirit of veterans helping veterans. He assists veterans from all eras of war in navigating the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs system and securing the benefits they have rightfully earned. His work is part of a nationwide network of more than 600 VVA Service Officers advocating for veterans and their families every day.

This recognition reflects countless hours of service, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to ensuring no veteran is left behind.

It is with profound sadness that NVBDC shares the passing of our Founder & CEO, Keith King. A Vietnam veteran and a lifelong advocate for veterans’ rights, Keith spent more than 40 years improving opportunities and outcomes for veterans, helping them transition to civilian life, advocating for fair treatment and benefits, and championing legislative progress that supports all veterans.

Keith founded NVBDC to open corporate doors for certified veteran-owned businesses and tirelessly worked to ensure they could compete fairly in supply chains nationwide. His leadership transformed the landscape for veteran entrepreneurs and strengthened the broader veteran community.

We honor his legacy and extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all those touched by his service and advocacy.

Services and Visitation Information:

Services will be held at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home, located at 32515 Woodward Avenue, Royal Oak, Michigan 48073.

Friday, January 9
Public visitation: 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, January 10
Final visitation: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Funeral service: 11:00 a.m.
Burial to follow at White Chapel Cemetery

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Keith’s memory may donate to Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs, an organization that supports veterans and individuals with medical needs through trained service dogs: www.medicalservicedogs.org