Home » Honoring Our Soldiers

Honoring Our Soldiers

The Milan Area Chamber honors chamber soldiers on a monthly basis, and will also reach out to the community to honor others. Aaron Friese is our very first and only Adopted Soldier. Aaron will be returning to Iraq in fall 2005. We intend to continue keeping contact with him, while additionally recognizing the contributions of the many soldiers and veterans in our community.

Soldiers of the Month

Nov 2008 - Robert Fugate
Oct 2008 - Vance McCrumb
Aug 2008 - Todd Totzke
Jun 2008 - Charles Prichard
Apr 2008 - Bill Dunifon
Mar 2008 - Arnold Lerback
Jan 2008 - David Martinez
Dec 2007 - Russell Dotson
Oct 2007 - David MacPherson
Sep 2007 - Russ Finch
Aug 2007 - Ryan Finch
Jul 2007 - Fred Schettenhelm
Apr 2007 - Joe Kormos
Mar 2007 - Dr. Brian Mayday
Feb 2007 - Ralph Lefler
Jan 2007 - Ed Haley
Dec 2006 - Len Federer
Nov 2006 - Gary Koehler
Oct 2006 - Jim Early
Sep 2006 - Dr. Ian Diaz
Aug 2006 - Tom Smetka
Jun 2006 - Guy Ciavattone
May 2006 - Chris Wetzler
Apr 2006 - Tim Gibelyou
Mar 2006 - The Members of American Legion Post 268
Feb 2006 - Dennis McComb
Jan 2006 - Christy Wachowicz
Nov 2005 - Sara Ford
Oct 2005 - Ron Mercier
Sep 2005 - Robert Schrock
Aug 2005 - Robert Creal
Jul 2005 - Richard Rountree
Jun 2005 - Duane Schultz
May 2005 - Don Kleinschmidt

Robert Fugate

Veteran of the Month • November 2008

Robert Fugate served in both the U.S. Navy and the Michigan National Guard, from 1981 to 2001, retiring after 20 dedicated years as an E-6 Petty Officer First Class. “The highlight of my Navy career was serving with the Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Team as a Maintenance Technician/Crew Chief from 1984-1988. The travel and exposure to the public is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Fugate commented. “I also served with many local soldiers in the Michigan National Guard, 156 Signal Battalion, Ypsilanti for 5 years. As a Veteran I volunteer with the Washtenaw County Honor Guard performing funeral services and honors for deceased Veterans,” he said. Keeping very busy, he is also a member of Ann Arbor VFW Chapter 423 and an Associate member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 310, Ann Arbor. He served during Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf in 1991. He received 2 Navy Achievement Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal, and the Southwest Asia Service Medal. When not working as a Custodian at the U of M, Robert enjoys the quiet time of taking his dog for walks. He and his wife Betty have been married for 25 years and have two children, Sarah 16 and Jeremy, 21. The Milan Area Chamber of Commerce salutes you. We never take the dedicated service of our military for granted; because of countless who have and presently serve, we remain a free America and businesses can practice free enterprise.

Vance McCrumb

Veteran of the Month • October 2008

Vance McCrumb joined the U.S. Air Force in January 1963. Two years later he volunteered for Vietnam, not really realizing the impact of what was about to come. McCrumb trained to be a dog handler, and although he served part of his duty in war, he has no regrets. “It is absolutely an honor to serve our country,” he said. McCrumb’s dog was one of the first forty to be used in Vietnam. Their job was to literally sniff out the enemy. The military uses German Shepherds and Labs, training the dogs at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. Vance said he got his dog “green”—in other words, he was the sole trainer. He served in Project Operation Top Dog.

McCrumb earned several medals during his time south of the DMZ. “Our unit received the Presidential Unit Award, Outstanding Unit Award with the ’V’ Device for Valor, to name a few...the usual medals awarded for showing up like the Good Conduct Award,” he modestly said. He was ranked an E-4 upon discharge in January 1967.

McCrumb serves as membership chair of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 310 of Washtenaw County. The group’s 160+ members organize Christmas and Halloween parties at the Veterans Hospital in Ann Arbor, with Carolyn Wetzler’s class at Milan Middle School regularly providing homemade greeting cards. McCrumb’s group presents educational programs about the Vietnam War at area high schools. “History teachers invite us to share our program with the students. We take in some memorabilia and pictures and field every kind of question imaginable,” he continued.

McCrumb is also a member of the Washtenaw County Honor Guard, honoring our passing veterans when asked to do so, typically at a graveside service. The group performs a twenty-one gun salute, folds and presents the American flag to the family, and hands out American flag lapel pins to the children in attendance. He is also a member of VFW Post 423 and the Vietnam Dog Handler Association.

Vance is married to his wife Kathy, and the couple enjoy spending time with their two children and eight grandchildren, who range in age from 2 1/2 months to 14 years old. Beyond his involvement with Veteran affairs, he enjoys transposing photography to DVDs, especially working with photography of his grandchildren. He retired from AT&T 17 years ago and is now employed by Precision Devices in Milan. Thank you, Vance, for your service to our country.

Todd Totzke
General Manager, National RV Direct

Veteran of the Month • August 2008

I can’t think of a better way to welcome a new business and chamber member, than by telling you that Todd Totzke severed his country in the U.S. Navy, from 1982 through 1987. He was a merchant sailor from the time he was discharged from the Navy until 1995. Todd comes from a family of sailors. His father Todd, a Milan local, served in the Navy for 22 years, as did his younger brother, Eric, retiring after 22 years. I asked Todd about his ventures as a sailor, only to find out that I was not able write it all down, however I would like to tell you about a few unique experiences that Todd was involved in as a sailor. Todd was on board at the time the USS Ranger CV-61, the aircraft carrier that bombed the Libyan oil plat forms in the red sea in 1987. He was also on board the USS Nathaniel Green SSBN, when it just so happened to run into an under water mountain in the Irish Sea. “A pretty scary adventure,” he relayed, because after that, the Navy had to scrap it. As a merchant sailor working for a military contract ship, Todd was the first accident victim and the cook working for him, was the first death of the preset to the 1991 Iraq war. They were in fact the first US Ship to pull in to Jeddah Saudi Arabia on August 2nd 1990 for support of our military. His ship was carrying the ammo for our bombers. I enjoy talking with our military veterans as we can all appreciate what there service to our country means. When you stop by his new business at 11900 Carpenter Rd., notice the colors of the business Todd operates. The colors of red, white and blue, shows he truly appreciates his country. Again welcome to a new chamber member and veteran Todd Totzke.

Charles Prichard

Veteran of the Month • June 2008

Charles Prichard, member of the George A. Falk VFW Post 5977, entered the service during World War Two, in July 1943. He took his Naval training at Great Lakes and was sent to San Francisco. Although he was in the Philippines, Okinawa, and New Guinea, most of his service was spent in Brisbane, Australia. He was aboard the USS Coucal ASR8, which was a rescue ship. While at the Admiralty Islands, there was an invasion of shelling, and although he was not personally involved in any battles, while the ship was docked in Finchhaven, New Guinea, crazy Japanese pilots sprayed the area. Upon discharge he was ranked a Carpenter Mate 3rd Class. He left the Navy March 1, 1946 and on July 17th, married his lovely bride, Mary Jane. The couple have been married over sixty years, and have two sons, one in Florida and one in the Milan area, with three grandchildren in Florida and two in Michigan. Charles enjoys woodworking and repairing most anything for his hobbies. Prior to retirement, he worked in construction in Ann Arbor. Thank you, Charles, for your service in the military. Because of people like you...we remain a free nation.

Bill Dunifon

Veteran of the Month • April 2008

Rev. Bill Dunifon, Interim Pastor at Peoples Presbyterian Church, was ordained in 1969 and entered the Army Artillery in 1964 as a 2nd Lieutenant. He served 4 years prior in the ROTC program. After graduating college, he went through Artillery Officer’s training. Although Rev. Dunifon served his country during Vietnam, he remained state-side. He was alerted 3 times, during those years, but ended up serving in Ft. Sill, Oklahoma, San Antonio, Texas, Ft. Benning, Georgia, with most of his time spent in the 18th Airborne Corp Artillery, Ft. Bragg, N. Carolina. He relayed his experience during his military years as very positive. “I enjoyed serving as an officer,” he said. Upon discharge in 1966, he left with the rank of 1st Lieutenant. Married 40 years to his wife, Margaret; the couple has two grown daughters. Rachel, is a professor of Family, Childhood and Mental Health at Cornell University and their second daughter, Laura, a Professor of Philosophy & Religion at Lynchburg College. Rev. & Mrs. Dunifon enjoy having four grandchildren. When not ministering, he enjoys photography, sports, gardening and travel. He is serving Peoples Presbyterian, until the church goes through the process of finding a full time minister. His credentials and degrees, allow him to be very diverse with his career, having taught on the college level. Thank you Rev. Dunifon for your service in the military and for service, as a church minister. If you do not presently have a church you attend, feel welcome to attend Peoples Presbyterian Church, 439-1922

Arnold Lerback

Veteran of the Month • March 2008

Arnold C. Lerback, when asked about his hobbies, laughed and wittingly commented, “During the war, my hobby was staying alive!” Mr. Lerback entered the US Army in September of 1942 and served during World War II...he got to return home just before Christmas after the war ended. No one is crazy about serving during war time, but some one has to do it, so he attributes positive service time, to seeing many parts of the world, that he normally wouldn’t have been able to see.

His Boot Camp training was spent at Ft. Riley, Kansas, and from there he spent time in Australia, the Philippines and was stationed on an island near New Guinea. He received several medals during the war, but was very modest in talking about them. Upon discharge he was ranked an E-5. He and his wife Virginia moved to an older home just north of Milan and lived there for 3 years, before building their dream home on the property.

Having lived in Milan for almost 20 years, he remained there until his wife of 40 years, passed away. He is retired from Ford Motor, where he worked for 27 years. He has 3 step children and 10 step grandchildren. He enjoys working with anything mechanical. The Milan Area Chamber thanks you for serving our country.

David Martinez

Veteran of the Month • January 2008

David Martinez, a Marine/Navy Veteran now, but will always be a true soldier at heart, loves his country! David chalked up 22 years with the military serving in both the Navy and Marine Corp from 1954 to 1976. He was sent to school to train as a MedEvac. Martinez AKA DOC, has a very impressive military career, having served in Vietnam and being wounded in action. David A Martinez, Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman First Marine Force, U.S. Navy (retired) earned the following: Combat Aircrew Wings; Navy Achievement Medal; Two Purple Heart Medals; Thirteen Awards of the Air Medal; Five Awards of the Good Conduct Medal; Combat Action Ribbon with FMF Clasp; Presidential Unit Citation: Navy occupational Medal; National Defense Service Meal with one star: Armed Forces Expeditionary medal with FMF Clasp; Vietnam Service Medal with seven campaign stars and FMF Clasp: Republic of Vietnam Presidential Unit citation: Vietnam Gallantry Cross Medal with Frame and palm; Vietnam Civil Actions Unit Citation with Frame and Palm and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with device 1960.

On July 16, 1968 while serving as a MedEvac Corpsman with HMM-163 1st Marine Air Wing, (Prov.) Mag-39 Quang Tri, Republic of South Vietnam received a MedEvac Mission from a Marine unit that had walked into an enemy mine field sustaining two KIA’s and WIA’s. The MedEvac helicopter made its first pass over the injured marines, locating where the NVA were and where the corpsman would be lowered down in a hoist to the wounded marines as it was receiving enemy fire. As HM1 Martinez prepared to be lowered in a hoist on the second pass, enemy ground fire hit the helicopter and the stabilizer causing the MedEvac helicopter to crash from 250 feet in the air. HM1 Martinez was thrown from the helicopter and regained consciousness 8-10 feet from the downed helicopter in high elephant grass. He suffered a back injury and multiple shrapnel wounds. As he lay in the grass he could hear the NVA advancing up the downed choppers position. He quickly, but carefully, for fear of setting off a mine, crawled back to the downed chopper position and tended to his wounded crew members. They fought the advancing NVA forces for 45 minutes before they were rescued.

On Aug 8, 1968, the MedEvac helicopter was sitting at LZ Stud, when they received a call and lifted off. After a few minutes into the flight the crew chief said, “Doc”, hook up.. the pilot wants to speak to you.” Martinez turned on his head set and responded, “Yes, Sir!” The pilot said, “Doc, were going in to a firefight where they are taking heavy fire and have a lot of causalities. I’m not sure we are going to make it out of there, so I’m going to drop you off at the LZ and come back and get you.” Martinez refused to go back to the LZ….after discussion they both agreed the Marine’s belonged to both of them and they would both go in. The MedEvac crew went into that fire fight three times, with their chopper full of bullet holes, they limped back to Quang Tri to switch helicopters and returned two more times and got all the wounded out. Martinez suffered multiple shrapnel wounds of the arms and legs and a round in the chest of his flak jacket. HM1 Martinez went on to fly 267 combat MedEvac Missions.

He and his wife Sandy will celebrate 50 years of marriage this March. The couple have 3 sons, James, Richard and David and 8 grandchildren. David, now retired, enjoys bowling and volunteering for the many organizations he belongs to: some are: Marine Corp League, Knights of Columbus, American Legion, Purple Heart, and the VFW, plus a few more!

Russell Dotson

Soldier of the Month • December 2007

Russell Dotson, made a pact with two of his co-workers in 1987 to join the U.S. Naval Reserve. The three headed to the local recruiter at the Selfridge Air National Guard Base, to get our physicals and the proper paperwork done. A couple of weeks later Russ was sworn in and as it turned out, he was the only one who followed through. One month later Russ was headed to training. He went on to become designated as a Hospital Corpsman, working all aspects of medicine during his Naval Reserve career. He worked in several places, such as in major hospitals, field hospitals and clinics. He served 8 years from 1988 to 1996. In January of 1991, Russ was recalled to serve in Operation Desert Shield, which subsequently turned into Operation Desert Storm, now considered the first Gulf War. During his time serving in Operation Desert Shield/ Operation Desert Storm, he worked side-by-side with physicians, and nurses, treating the wounded from the field. “It was very interesting,” he said. Russell received Good Conduct, Liberation of Kuwait. Upon discharge, Russ was ranked a Petty Officer 2nd Class/ HM2.

Russell has been married to his wife Connie, for 27 years. They have three children, Aaron, Erica and Lindsay. The couple also has four grandchildren. Russ listed as his hobbies, Computers, computers, and more computers. Everything involving compute repair, upgrades, building from scratch, volunteer webmaster for local nonprofits. Politics is his latest interest, beginning as a new City of Milan Council Member in January 2008. He works as a Forensic Supervisor at the Center for Forensic Psychiatry 8303 Platt Rd., Saline Thank you Russ for your service to our country and our community. Russ was the chamber web master for years.

David MacPherson

Soldier of the Month • October 2007

Dave MacPherson served in the U.S. Army in Korea for six years, from 1975 to 1981, earning sharpshooter and good conduct medals. Upon his discharge he was ranked a Specialist 5.

Dave has one 25-year-old son and counts among his hobbies computers, photography, and writing. The three go hand-in-hand in his new enterprise, “Discover Milan News,” available in print and through his website, www.discovermilannews.com, which includes many slide shows of Milan events. Dave recently joined the chamber and can be seen covering news and events all over town. Thanks, Dave, for your service both past and present.

Russ Finch

Soldier of the Month • September 2007

Last month we named Ryan Finch our August Soldier of the Month, and thought it appropriate to follow up this month with his father Russell, who served four years in the U.S. Navy, from 1983 to 1987.

Russell owns Russell Finch and Sons Trucking, and Finch Sand and Gravel LLC. He served as a Navy corpsman, earning sharpshooter and good conduct medals. Upon discharge he was ranked Petty Officer Third Class.

Russell and his wife Robin have been married nine years and have two sons. Russell enjoys all forms of target shooting, including bows and arrows, pistol and rifles.

The Milan Area Chamber of Commerce thanks Russell for his years of service to our country and for his continued support as a chamber member.

Ryan Finch

Soldier of the Month • August 2007

Ryan Finch is about to deploy on his second tour of Iraq next month. A 2004 graduate of Saline High School, Ryan joined the Marines after graduation. His three-year stint hasn’t brought him a decision yet as to his career, be it the military or participating in the family business, Russell Finch and Sons Co., a trucking and aggragate hauling service. On his first tour to Iraq he was not in a hot spot, but was working as a diesel mechanic in a support group. Ryan, a member of the the First Battalion, Seventh Marines Division, has already received awards and medals. This single young man took his boot training at Parris Island, in S.C. and is stationed in Twentynine Palms, California. He is currently ranked a Corporal. Ryan has a big interest in cars and drag racing, and enjoys spending time at the Milan Dragway. He fixes up cars and has one of his own specials, a beautiful 2002 Mustang. Prior to service, Ryan was the grounds manager at his father’s business. Thank you, Ryan, for serving our country.

Fred Schettenhelm

Soldier of the Month • July 2007

The Milan Area Chamber is honored to designate Fred Schettenhelm as our Soldier this month. Fred is a busy, busy man to say the least, as he farms with his son Michael, some 2000 acres of land. Fred was 24 years old when he was called up in the draft in 1962 to serve his country in the U.S. Army. He served for two years through 1964 in the 503rd Military Police. He took his boot camp training in Ft. Knox and was stationed at both Ft. Gordon, GA and Ft. Bragg, N.C.

He received the Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal and other awards. Schettenhelm was really a part of American History when I come to think about it, as his division was called to calm the riots spurred in both Birmingham, Alabama, and Oxford, Mississippi, when James Merideth, the first black man decided to enroll in the Oxford University. Fred has news articles about those riots. He left the service with the rank of Specialist 4th Class. When asked to comment on the service, he said, “Even though I didn’t want to go at the time, I benefited from it..it was a good experience and any young man or woman today would also benefit.”

Fred came to Milan in 1954 from Dearborn. He was raised in a farming family and continued his love for a career. Schettenhelm’s, Inc. employees two and sells all kinds of farm equipment. Fred is well-known in the area and for 15 years held an annual Antique Tractor Event on his grounds, with some 2500 attending each year and him feeding over 1200 annually.

The chamber thanks Fred for his years of service to our country, to his community and to the Milan Area Chamber of Commerce.

Joe Kormos

Soldier of the Month • April 2007

Joe Kormos enjoyed his tenure in the service—and he should, because he married his lovely wife Judy and brought her to Germany with him, where he served in Schweinfurt for 18 months. Joe served from 1956 through 1958, taking his training stateside at Fort Ord, California. Part of the 10th Infantry Division, his assignment during his service years was gunner on the 105 Howitzer. He felt it was a very positive and interesting part of his life and has since stayed in contact over the years with some of his army buddies (some in the Milan area). Joe received the good conduct medal and left the service as a PFC. Joe has two children and six grandchildren. He and his business partner, Tom Preston, formed Precision Devices in 1971. He enjoys golf and time at their cottage up north.

Dr. Brian Mayday

Soldier of the Month • March 2007

Dr. Brian Mayday, downtown Milan Dentist, served in the U.S. Navy for six years from 1990 – 1996 during the end of Desert Storm. During his tour he was in the Operation Corazon, a medical dental and engineering effort in Guatemala . He spent two tours at Naval training and in-processing centers, getting sailors ready for the fleet. In between the tours he spent time with the marines. He received the Navy Achievement Medal and upon discharge was ranked a Lt. Commander. Dr. Mayday, opened his office at 21 E. Main St, 9 years ago. He has 6 employees, two are hygienists. Brian is a family man, when not working, he enjoys time with his wife Renee and three children. Thank you Brian for serving our country.

Ralph Lefler

Soldier of the Month • February 2007

Ralph Lefler, owner of D & R Coins, located at 20 East Main Street, served his country in the Army from 1946-1949. World War Two was still going on when Lefler entered the service. He served in Germany and Italy during his military career and brought many medals home including the European Theater Ribbon, Army Occupation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, French Forthigade Campaign shoulder strap and ribbon, Sharp Shooter Medal and Interpretation Badge. He served in the 282nd Quartermaster, which was an outfit of warehouses that supplied whatever the soldiers needed. Speaking fluent German, Lefler served as a German interpreter to communicate messages between his superiors and the stockade prisoners. “I attended a German Lutheran school in the thirties and my grandparents spoke German; that is how I learned the language,” he said. “I lost most of my service records in a fire,” he continued. He said he also served as a cook, baker and mess sergeant. Upon leaving the service his rank was T-4. In 1956 Ralph was ordained a Baptist minister and ministered within the prisons for 35 years. His beloved wife, Alice, passed away in October of 2005. They were married for 52 years. The couple had one daughter, and then adopted a son, who also served in the military. In the 1960s and 70s he owned a coin shop in Ypsilanti. He also owned and operated the Tri-County Nursery and Greenhouses, located just outside Milan. Being the people person he is, it was natural for him to open his present coin shop, which carries Remington statues, Tiffany lamps and collectibles and collectible coins. We encourage you to shop D & R Coins. 439-7015 Thank you Ralph for serving our country!

Ed Haley

Soldier of the Month • January 2007

This month we honor Ed Haley, foundation building inspector with Everdry Waterproofing, and thank him for serving our great country during Vietnam, where he served from 1969 –1971 in the U.S. Army. Upon discharge his rank was a PFC. He has worked with Everdry Waterproofing, for the last one and a half years. I was not able to speak to Ed Directly, but his co worker said Ed is a man on the go and is very family oriented. He does wood burning and crafting and has several patents and is also a co-owner in a coupon magazine company. Ed is known for being very creative and inventive. We as a chamber, tip our hats to Ed and all service men and women who have served and continue to serve. Everdry Waterproofing is a Milan Chamber Member.

Len Federer

Soldier of the Month • December 2006

Len Federer, an active member of American Legion Post #268, has served Milan for years as chairman of the Memorial Day parade. Len served our country in the U.S. Army in 1966-67. Stationed in Korea on the DMZ (32nd Parallel) during the Vietnam era, Company A of the 106th Battalion was on constant alert. Len was in charge or the Arms Room, keeping account and taking care of the weapons during his tenure. Working at the border of North and South Korea meant many nights in the fox hole. “I have one regret while there,” Len said, “that I didn’t learn the language. I certainly learned a new appreciation of what we have here, our rights and our freedoms,” he continued. Thank you, Len, for your service to our country and for your hard work to bring us the parade each year.

Gary Koehler

Soldier of the Month • November 2006

Cpl. Gary Koehler, a 2003 graduate of Milan High School, was a member of a U.S. Marine Corps scout sniper platoon. On October 31, 2006, he was killed in action in Haditha, Iraq. While at Milan High School, Cpl. Koehler was an athlete who excelled in football and baseball. His coaches described him as tenacious and a natural leader. In the fall of 2004, he was shot in the leg during battle in Fallujah and earned a Purple Heart, but felt duty-bound to return and honor his commitment to his country. His battalion was redeployed in June 2006 as part of a Marine Expeditionary Unit to be a ready response resource. In the last month of this assignment, Cpl. Koehler’s platoon was sent to the Al Anbar province. He was killed while countering insurgent sniper attacks.
Information and image courtesy monroenews.com

Jim Early

Soldier of the Month • October 2006

Jim Early, well-known Milanite, served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict from 1954 to 1956. He remained stateside, serving in Aberdeen, Texas and at Fort Hood. He was in maintenance during his service years and was ranked a Spec 3 upon his discharge. A past commander and 28-year member of American Legion Post 44 in Milan, Jim has served as the post’s finance officer for the past seven years. He is semi-retired, working part-time for the Ochelek-Stark Funeral Home in Milan. Early was co-owner of the Southeast Michigan Equipment Company for six years, a business which he and his partner purchased in 1984. He enjoys time with his wife, five children and seven grandchildren. Thank you, Jim, for serving your country.

Dr. Ian Diaz

Soldier of the Month • September 2006

Dr. Ian Diaz, a familiar face in downtown Milan, is not only a busy doctor within his Urgent Care Clinic, but is still currently serving in the United States Army Reserve. Dr. Diaz has served the military for the past 5 years, and served one year in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Pakistan. He has received the Army Commendation Medal and is currently the rank of Captain, selected for rank of Major. He is assigned to the 323rd Combat Support Hospital out of Southfield, Michigan. The Milan Urgent Care Clinic is conveniently located at 3 E. Main St. and has all the latest in technology to serve your urgent care needs. 439-2388

Tom Smetka

Soldier of the Month • August 2006

Tom Smetka served in the U.S. Air Force from 1966 through 1969, during the Vietnam era. Smetka was ranked Staff Sergeant before he left the service, and he was awarded the Vietnam Conflict Participation Medal and the M-46 Perfect Marksman Medal.

Tom has been in the heating and cooling business for well over three decades. His family-owned business has three employees to effectively serve the Washtenaw, Monroe and Lenawee County areas. The well-known company deals with sales, installation, and service in all types of heating and cooling systems, including boilers. It is easy to see how they have been a success all these years, as not only do they have friendly, reliable service, but they have given back to their community through volunteer work for many years. Thank you, Tom, for your service to your country and community. Smetka Heating and Cooling may be reached at 734-439-2174.

Guy Ciavattone

Soldier of the Month • June 2006

Guy Ciavattone, owner of Marco’s Pizza, located at 1154 Dexter Street at the north end of Milan, served in the U.S. Air Force from 1981 through 1986 as a cryptologic linguist. He was trained in Russian and Spanish language skills. He supported reconnaissance missions in Europe and then later in Central America. Guy says, “The Air Force taught me discipline and management skills that I continue to use to this day. It was a great time for me and as a young man allowed me to travel to many different places that I know I would never be able to otherwise.” Upon completing his duty, he left the service at the rank of E-5 Staff Sergeant. Hungry for a pizza, call today! 439-3938 Thank you Guy for your service.

Chris Wetzler

Soldier of the Month • May 2006

The years were 1967-1971 when Chris Wetzler was serving in the US Army. One a 1/2 years out of the four he served in the Republic of Viet Nam. Chris enlisted for the Army Security Agency, which was the Army arm of the National Security Agency (NSA). At that time, the NSA was super secret, their budget was “black” and they did not officially exist. He was a cryptographic technician, with special top secret security clearances. “We encrypted intelligence gathered by radio intercept, and sent it up the chain to Saigon and ultimately Washington, DC.,” he said. Chris was stationed in Pleiku (Centeral highlands) in support of the 4th Infantry Division. He also saw duty in Phuc Vin with the 1st Calvalry and at a headquarters unit in Long Binh, outside Saigon. After Vietnam, Chris was stationed in Bankok, Thailand and completed his service at Ft. Riley, KS. “I don’t have to remind you that those years were very difficult and the Vietnam War polarized this country. I have nothing but respect for the men I served with, they carried out their duties under extremely difficult conditions, and I am proud to have served with them. Those four years had a tremendous impact on me, forcing me to mature and instilling discipline. I would not have traded it for anything, but I would not want to repeat it,” Chris commented. Christ received the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Vietnam Service and Vietnam Campaign Army Commendation Medal. Upon leaving the service he was ranked Specialist 5th Class. Chris has been a long time supporter and active member of the Milan Area Chamber. He has served as the co-President of the Civitan Organization, and is on the Greater Milan Area Community Foundation, served on MCATS and volunteers his professional expertise by doing the chamber payroll. Chris enjoys reading, lawn and gardening, travel with his wife, Carolyn and keeping his 1969 John Deere Lawn Tractor running. We salute this soldier and thank him for serving our country!

Tim Gibelyou

Soldier of the Month • April 2006

Tim Gibelyou, our Soldier of the Month, served two tours during Vietnam from 1965 through 1968. The Petty Officer E-4 has great memories of his service in the US Navy, in spite of serving during wartime. Tim was a radioman on the destroyer USS Wiltsie and their mission was Search and Rescue of downed pilots. The last year and a half of his service career he spent encrypting top secret messages. His tours earned him a few medals, but modesty only named a couple. He recalled the storm of his life that he will never forget, as the ship battled 48 degree walls of water during a typhoon. They turned away to avoid damage, but the storm also made a turn and did a tremendous amount of damage to the ship, breaking out windows. The soldiers actually had to be strapped into their bunks to stay in their beds. Tim recalls the food being thrown from the platters. The ship was one of three that sailed together in a flotation. Accompanying the destroyer was the USS Kitty Hawk and the USS Tower. Tim said his service days were an opportunity to visit parts of the world he may not have been able to see. He saw a lot of the Orient: Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Philippines, Guam and Australia was another country among others. Tim is a well-known leader of our community having been elected for a city council seat. Co-owner of the Lighthouse Coffee Co, 9 West Main, with his wife, Rena, Gibelyou also is the Grounds and Maintenance Supervisor of the Milan Area Schools. Thank you Tim for your service not only to our country, but to our community.

The Members of American Legion Post 268

Soldiers of the Month • March 2006

The American Legion Post 268, 44 Wabash St in downtown Milan has been in existence since 1924. The post has 134 members ranging from the youngest now serving in the Iraq War, to the oldest in their late 80’s. The Legion has a very high presence in the Milan Community with its active members, who sponsor the Annual Memorial Day Parade with the heart touching Fly Over and services commemorating those Veterans who have died, to it’s Annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony that honors the living and deceased Veterans. Citizens can properly dispose of their worn, torn and tattered flags by bringing them to the Legion, where every June 14th (Flag Day), they have a flag burning ceremony. The Legion also supplies flags where needed and they do so upon request and where they see the need. Other than dues, this non-profit organization holds two or three dinner fundraisers a year. They also host the Chili Cook off during Discover Milan Day to help raise money for the Relay for Life, plus they have their own team who participates in the Annual South Washtenaw Co Relay for Life, that is held in Wilson Park. Every year they go to the Veteran’s Hospital in Ann Arbor and conduct an Annual Bingo Party for the Vets; this year that day is April 8th. Today most full honors of the taps, 21-gun salute and flag folding are performed by the Washtenaw Honor Guard, but upon occasion, the Milan Legion is asked to participate at grave side services. Serving as Commander, is Charles Bolog, Earl Weller, 1st Vice Commander, Jim Early is the Financial Officer, Len Fedderer, Chaplain, Matt Walters the Service Officer and Bruce Ross, Secretary. The Legion recently became members of the Milan Area Chamber of Commerce. HATS OFF AND HANDS OVER OUR HEARTS TO THESE MEN AND WOMEN WHO HAVE SERVED OUR COUNTRY AND CONTINUE TO SERVE OUR COMMUNITY EVERY DAY.

Dennis McComb

Soldier of the Month • February 2006

Dennis McComb, well-known in the Milan Area through his leadership as superintendent of the Milan Area Schools since 1996, spent three years of his life serving our country in the U.S. Army. His stint from 1967 through 1970 took him to Okinawa for 22 months during the Vietnam era. Receiving many ribbons and medals, Dennis seemed most proud of his Good Conduct Medal. As a Specialist 5 E-5, he did his basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky and went on to Fort Bliss, Texas to complete his advanced training as a missile repairman. Upon his first assignment, he was trained as a battery clerk, and although he was assigned to missile units, he completed his tour as a clerk.

“My service time was a great experience, even though I had to be gone from home for two years. Communication was by mail and if you were lucky, calls back home were sent on shortwave radio. Unfortunately, I could never get my calls to go through,” he reflected. Fortunately, Dennis was able to have his wife, Yvonne, with him in Okinawa for 18 months. “We did endure some protests by the Okinawans because of the military presence on the island; however, we got along very well with the local citizens we saw on a daily basis,” he said.

Dennis grew up in Livonia and earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mathematics from Eastern Michigan University. He went on to complete a doctorate in educational administration at Michigan State University. He and his wife live in Pittsfield Township and have three grown children. The Milan Area Chamber thanks you for your service to our country.

Christy Wachowicz

Soldier of the Month • January 2006

Christy Wachowicz served in the Army and Michigan Army National Guard, in both Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Her rank at discharge was Specialist. Christy left for Fort Dix, New Jersey to do her Basic and Advanced training in June of 1987. She was then stationed for two years at Fort Ord, California as a 94B (cook). Fort Ord was 7th Infantry Division-Light, so they needed to be deployable in 18 hours. Her unit was on alert for both Honduras and Panama, but they were not deployed. In June of 1989 she received an Honorable Discharge from the Army, and enlisted in the MIARNG to fulfill the remainder of her 8-year commitment. She was in the 460th Supply and Service Company in Midland, Michigan.

“It took about a year to get over the idea of being sent to war,” she said, “ and that was when my unit was activated for Operation Desert Shield. We did in processing at Fort Knox, Kentucky before being sent to Saudi Arabia. While over there, I was in the Bakery Platoon. We baked fresh bread during the night when the temperatures were slightly cooler. During Desert Storm, we joined the rest of our Company, and provided support to other units in Saudi Arabia and Iraq. We spent about 6 months overseas, returned to Fort Knox for out-processing, and then returned to Midland. I finished my enlistment as a cook at the rank of Specialist. I earned the Southwest Asia Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal.”

“One good thing came out of the war,” she continued, “I met my husband, Rob, who was also in the same unit.” After returning home, they married and had three children. “Serving in the Military helps you appreciate how lucky we are to be Americans, and how many things we take for granted. It also teaches you how to sacrifice for the good of others,” Christy stated. She attributes her training in helping her fit in to her position of Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 449. She has been Scoutmaster for three years, and chalks it up as an awesome responsibility; instilling some of those values in the boys. Christy ended her comments with, “When you get a group of boys to spend a weekend camping in the rain, sleet and snow without any electronics—and they have fun doing it—now that’s character building!” Boy Scout Troop 449 has been a member of the chamber since Christy took leadership. Thank you for serving your country in many ways Christy!

Sara Ford

Soldier of the Month • November 2005

Sara K. Ford served in the U. S. Air Force during the Vietnam Era from 1969-1970. She began her basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, at San Antonio. She arrived at the base one month after Hurricane Camille had devastated the Gulf Coast. Airmen from Keesler helped with the search and rescue and many young Airmen could not handle the death and devastation and went AWOL. Keesler was also a training base, in in Biloxi, Mississippi. While Sara trained for her eventual job, Iranian pilots were being trained to fly fighter planes at the same time. (Sara added that as an interesting fact.) Her last base was Plattsburgh, located in upstate New York near Lake Champlain. Sara’s assignment was processing incoming servicemen and women. She helped with recruiting and had a chance to meet the U. S. Air force Band in Burlington, Vermont. Her airbase was a Strategic Air Command, with the barracks located near the flight line. She witnessed many of the huge B-52 bombers coming back from Vietnam. Her rank at discharge was Airman First Class. Sara has been a huge asset to the Milan Area Chamber of Commerce, seeing a real vision for it and implementing several programs during her three terms as President. She performs exemplary service to her community.

Ron Mercier

Soldier of the Month • October 2005

Well known Milan Resident Ron Mercier served in the U. S. Navy from 1954 to 1957. Ron served three tours in the Mediterranean, the Arctic Circle and the Equator Crossing. He was in charge of refrigeration and air conditioning on board the USS Forrestal (first of the super carriers with the canted flight deck). Ron Mercier is a retired Milan schoolteacher who served the district over thirty years. He married his lovely wife Shirley in 1958 and the couple have 6 children and 13 grandchildren. Ron was the first recipient of the Milan Area Chamber of Commerce Humanitarian Award. Ron put the life of one of his former students, Amy McCloud, before his own, and donated her one of his own kidneys, which saved her life. Known for his coaching years and hockey, he is a big sports enthusiast, but balances life well, serving his family, business, country and community with much love. We honor this soldier and thank him for a job well done.

Robert Schrock

Soldier of the Month • September 2005

Robert Schrock served our country from 1954 through 1957 in the U. S. Army. His service was at the end of the Korean War. He did not have to go to Korea, but was sent to Germany instead. Robert served in the “C” Battery, 28th Artillery Battalion, 8th Infantry Division. He was Sargent of the Fire Direction Control and in charge of Atomic Cannon Rounds. “We had the only off road mobile atomic cannon in Europe at that time,” he commented. Upon discharge from his tour of duty, he was ranked Sargent E5. This veteran and his wife Connie, co own their business, located at 14568 King Dr. on the east entrance of Milan. Robert Schrock started his vision for the business by utilizing a large garage at his home. In 1987 they moved the business to its present location.. R. Schrock Co. is a valuable asset to the Milan Industrial Community. Just what is R. Schrock Co? It manufactures greenhouse equipment for a vast horticultural world, and distributes their products in many countries of the world, not to mention across the U.S.A. Thank you Robert for serving our country.

Robert Creal

Soldier of the Month • August 2005

Robert Creal, long time chamber member and Milan Business man, has been named the Soldier of the month. He served in the US Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps for a three-year stint from January 1962 through December 1964. Bob served during the very early stages of the Vietnam War; the US was providing only “advisors” and training at the time. He received Armor training at Fort Knox, KY and Military Law at the JAG School in Charlottesville, VA. He was assigned stateside to the US Army Claims Service at Fort Holabird, MD. He was prepped to go to South Florida during the Cuban Missile Crisis, and went through all that surrounded the assassination of President Kennedy in November 1963. Bob states, “I’m not a hero, but I did my job.” Upon discharge his rank was Captain. Bob may not think he is a hero, but all who live in this free society think otherwise! Bob Creal has been a lawyer for 44 years receiving his degree in law from the University of Michigan in 1961. He set up practice in Milan in 1970, later being joined by his daughter Julie as a partner. Julie now presides as a Judge of the 15th District Court in Ann Arbor. Bob can often be seen walking the streets of Milan, the community he has served well and continues to serve, sitting on the DDA Board. One of the most Norman Rockwell Type pictures I have of Bob Creal, was seeing him stroll with his little grandson one day on Main Street. The small boy was looking up at his tall grandfather and you could see admiration well deserved.

Richard Rountree

Soldier of the Month • July 2005

Richard Rountree, Co-founder and Chief Technical Officer of Dundee Internet Services, Inc., served 20 years, and 13 days in the US Air Force from July 18, 1972 to July 31,1992. His 13th anniversary of military retirement is coming up, so it is very appropriate for him to be our soldier this month! Richard served our country during both the Vietnam War and The Persian Gulf War. He has received the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, One Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Achievement Medal, One Oak Leaf Cluster, Good Conduct Medal, Six Oak leaf Clusters, National Defense Service medal, One Bronze Service Star, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Three Bronze Service Stars, Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia) and Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait)! His rank at retirement was Master Sergeant. Richard is responsible for the operation of a Nation-wide Dial-up network, a Wireless Internet Network throughout Monroe County. This 24 hour a day, 7 day a week operation of over 70 Internet Server and router systems, and oversight for two computer repair shops in Dundee and Monroe, keeps him very busy. He has been a guest lecturer at Eastern Michigan University for Internet Marketing classes and has recently signed on at EMU as an Adjunct Lecturer in the College of Technology Studies teaching Network Administration Classes this Fall. Born in Rochester, New York, he joined the US Air Force after graduation. During his Air Force Career he was a Security Policeman, a Personnel Specialist, a Recruiter, a member of a Tactical Air Control Team and an Information Technology Superintendent. He served a tour of duty in Southwest Asia during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm with the 511th Tactical Fighter Squadron, an A-10 unit based at RAF Alconbury in the UK. He also served as the enlisted Exec. Officer to the Base Commander and to Three Wing Commanders of the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing at King Fahd International Airport, during the SW Asia Cease Fire Campaign. After retiring from the US Air Force and prior to assuming his current position, Mr. Rountree was a Software Quality Assurance Manager for Comshare in Ann Arbor and as Software Release Coordinator for Cold River Software, also in Ann Arbor. He has a Bachelor of Science Degree from EMU in Aviation Technology Management and continued his education throughout his military career, receiving numerous designations. He and his wife Pat, have been long time Milan Area Chamber Members and supporters. Their businesses are located at: 21 W. First Street in Monroe (734-457-2837) and a shop at 168 Riley St. in Dundee. (734-529-5331. They provide Internet Access, Web Hosting, Wireless Internet, Lyris List Hosting, and Computer Repair Service. Log onto www.dundee.net for more information. Our hats are off to Richard Rountree! The Milan Area Chamber thanks him for the dedicated service he gave to the greatest nation on earth!

Duane Schultz

Soldier of the Month • June 2005

Most everyone in the Milan Area knows Duane Schultz, but many do not know that he joined the Navy just before World War II ended. He was stationed in the Philippines where they were preparing for the invasion of Japan, when the atomic bomb was dropped and Japan surrendered. The year was 1945. Duane was sworn into the Navy in March of that year, just a few weeks before he turned 18 years old. Not knowing the war was near its end, the brave soldier was off for eight weeks of Basic Training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center, not knowing what his future would be. After Basics he was off to San Francisco, where they boarded a troop transport and headed for the Philippines. Being in the height of war, he learned later that his unit were to be amphibious replacements for the invasion of Japan, which was set for November. The war abruptly ended in August of 1945 after President Truman gave the go ahead to drop the atomic bomb. Duane along with his unit were deployed to other units and he ended up in a Seabee unit on Guam. At his discharge in August of 1946, Duane was ranked a Petty Officer 3rd Class. Duane has served from that time to present in his community and area in many capacities. He and his lovely wife Isabelle, have been faithful stewards of community service. Duane and his sons Tyler and Todd run the family owned Schultz Motors of Milan, located at 260 County St. in Downtown Milan. The Schultz’s have been long time chamber members. Our hats off to you!

Don Kleinschmidt

Soldier of the Month • May 2005

Longtime member Don Kleinschmidt is the owner of Jones Insurance Co. Don joined the Navy in 1967. He served during wartime with the Beachmaster Unit Two, a small special Navy Unit that controlled the beach during amphibious landings with the Marines. He served in Europe and the Caribbean. Upon completing four years with the Navy, his rank was 2nd Class E-5. Thank you for serving our country, Don.

Don continues to serve his country on a local level, having supported the Milan Area Chamber for years, serving in the past for over a decade as our treasurer. Don is very active with our Annual Christmas Parade, assisting the chairman of that committee with the lineup of the parade. Don has a love of airplanes and is a pilot. He is a dedicated family man and we are proud of this Veteran!

Aaron Friese

Our Adopted Soldier, Sgt. Aaron Friese, is currently deployed in Iraq.

June 14, 2007 — Aaron Jason Friese joined the US Army while he was 17 and a senior at Milan High School. He graduated in June 2002 and left for boot camp Private E-2 in August, reporting to duty at Fort Carson, Colorado Springs on Thanksgiving Day 2002. April 2003 Aaron and his Company, 4ID, deployed to Iraq. They spent 12 months there and were given 17 months at home before deploying again. This second tour was again 12 months, and Aaron returned home in November 2006 as a SGT E-5. Preparing for their third tour, Aaron and his Company have just returned from a month of desert training in California - working 18 hour days. This time they will have only been home 9 months before deployment. With all of the training that they have been doing, their actual time at home has been 90 days. Expected deployment is scheduled for August 2007, their third tour, destination is the heart of Iraq. Many of the young heroes are having difficulty with adjusting to being home, and now they are preparing to go back. Aaron married his wife Samantha three years ago. She has spent much of their marriage adjusting to taking care of everything on the home front, then trying to get back to “normal” when Aaron comes home, and now changing back to being the home support. They are buying a town home in Colorado Springs next month. The world of military families has never been easy, but during war time it’s extremely difficult. Those left behind are working, going to school, and pretending to go about their daily business. However their deployed loved ones are constantly on their minds and in their hearts. Please keep all of these heroes and their families in your daily thoughts and prayers. Aaron, we are very proud of you!