A new exhibition at the Detroit Historical Museum is shining a light on the history, sacrifice, and continued service of the Vietnam Veterans of America Detroit Chapter #9, the first VVA chapter in Michigan and a nationally recognized force in veteran advocacy.
Titled “Welcome Home: Vietnam Veterans of America Detroit Chapter #9,” the exhibit runs from June 27 through October 19, 2025, in the Robert and Mary Ann Bury Community Gallery. The opening comes as the nation commemorates 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War—a poignant moment of reflection and recognition.
The exhibit opening was met with an incredible turnout and heartfelt support. In attendance were the Board of Directors of VVA Chapter 9, Marty Eddy of the National League of POW/MIA Families, and Brian Love from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, underscoring the significance of the moment to both local and state veteran communities.
“We are grateful that the story of Vietnam veterans and Detroit Chapter #9 will be told through this exhibit,” said Paul Palazzolo, Chapter President. “We hope that everyone takes the time to learn about our service to country, veterans, and the community as a whole.”
Special thanks were extended to Irene Spooner and Darci McConnell, whose tireless dedication and behind-the-scenes leadership were instrumental in making the exhibit a reality.
The exhibit highlights the emotional journey of Detroit-area veterans returning from combat and chronicles their decades-long fight for visibility, justice, and healing. Through powerful photos, artifacts, and firsthand testimonies, visitors witness how Chapter #9 transformed collective trauma into a driving force for change—advocating for improved healthcare, fighting for Agent Orange recognition, and investing in education and community programs.
The roots of Chapter #9 trace back to Wayne State University, where returning veterans formed student groups like Bamboo Rap and Flight of the Phoenix. In 1980, those efforts led to the creation of Vietnam Veterans of Michigan, which officially became VVA Detroit Chapter #9 in 1983.
Since then, Chapter #9—often referred to as “LZ Motown”—has:
- Donated hundreds of thousands in scholarships
- Participated in the annual Metro Detroit Veterans Day Parade
- Provided food, PPE, and assistance during COVID-19
- Supported veteran housing, service dog programs, and mental health care
- Ensured no veteran is left behind
The Bury Community Gallery, where the exhibit is housed, is known for showcasing the stories of underrepresented communities and earned a Leadership in History Award from the American Association for State and Local History in 2020.
Exhibit highlights include:
- A full-scale Huey helicopter replica
- Combat-era gear, dog tags, handwritten letters, and medals
- Visual tributes to Chapter 9’s continued advocacy and service
- Chapter 9’s enduring motto:
“Never again will one generation of veterans abandon another.”
Visit the Exhibit
Detroit Historical Museum
5401 Woodward Avenue, Midtown Detroit
June 27 – October 19, 2025
Wednesday–Saturday: 10 AM–5 PM | Sunday: 1 PM–5 PM
Admission includes all exhibits
Guests are also invited to explore Streets of Old Detroit, Detroit 67: Perspectives, and Doorway to Freedom: Detroit and the Underground Railroad.
This isn’t just an exhibit—it’s a homecoming. One that honors the service, sacrifice, and lifelong mission of Detroit’s Vietnam veterans. Whether you’re a veteran, student, historian, or Detroiter, Welcome Home offers an unforgettable experience of courage, community, and legacy.
