Dearborn Vets to Host Rededication of Memorial for Fordson Alumnus Killed During WWII

The Dearborn Allied War Veterans Council invites the public to attend the dedication of a new memorial in memory of Marine Pfc. Walter Kielb, a alumnus who was killed in action at the Battle of Saipan on June 22, 1944 during World War II.

The ceremony will take place at 1:30 p.m. on May 24 at Fordson High School. The event will honor not only Kielb but also the thousands of men and women from Fordson who served their state and nation so admirably in the United States Armed Forces.

Those scheduled to make remarks during the ceremony include Mayor John B. O’Reilly, Jr.; Dearborn Public Schools Superintendent Brian Whiston; Hussein Berry of the Board of Education; Tom Wilson, commander of the DAWVC; and John Ruselowski of the DAWVC.

The Marine Corps League will be on hand for the presentation/posting of colors. Fordson High School students will lead the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem and God Bless America during the ceremony.

The original Kielb memorial was located in Walter Kielb Park, which had been Porvath Park till it was renamed by the Dearborn City Council in 1949 to honor Kielb. Over the years, park use declined and the memorial was vandalized.

Fordson High School was chosen as the new permanent location for a fresh plaque honoring Kielb and all Fordson students who serve in the Armed Forces.