Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

01/15/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/15/2025 12:01

Michigan Army National Guard 1775th Military Police Company Soldiers Receive Tributes from Federal, State and Local Representatives

LANSING, Mich. - On Sunday Jan. 12, Soldiers with the Michigan Army National Guard (MIARNG) 1775th Military Police Company, based at the Pontiac Armory, received honorary tributes from Congresswoman Haley Stevens; State Representative Brenda Carter; and Oakland County Commissioner Angela Powell, for efforts in support of the annual Holiday Extravaganza Parade in Pontiac and various community service projects.

"The MIARNG is deeply invested in the communities where our service members live, work and serve," said Colonel Andrew Kuhns of the MIARNG. "We are grateful for the recognition that the 1775th Military Police Company is receiving today, and we are eternally grateful to the Michigan citizens who continue to support us."

"The Michigan National Guard 1775th Military Police Company is an absolute Oakland County gem," said Kaino Phillips, board chairman for the Holiday Extravaganza. "What they have done consistently for a multitude of communities over the years is priceless. We are so honored to have them as a partner and even more of a blessing to recognize them for their ongoing contributions, we are grateful."

"It was an honor to celebrate the men and women of the 1775th Military Police Company, of the Michigan National Guard, not only for their service to our nation but their volunteerism," said Rep. Haley Stevens. "Every year they play a critical role in Pontiac's Holiday Extravaganza, getting everyone lined up for the parade and making sure older folks have a warm place to go if they need. They are an integral part of our Oakland County Community, and I salute their service."

"It was an honor to join Congresswoman Haley Stevens, County Commissioner Angela Powell, Holiday Extravaganza Board Chair Kaino Phillips, Linda Zabik, executive director for the Holiday Extravaganza Parade, and Colonel Andrew Kuhns of the MIARNG to honor the 1775th Military Police Company for their years of dedication and hard work to our community," said State Representative Brenda Carter. "Without them, our Holiday Extravaganza Parade would not be possible. As a mother of a son who served our country, I take every opportunity to thank those who give so much to protect people they will never meet. We owe so much to those who serve and have served this state and country. Today was the least we, as elected leaders, could do. I look forward to continuing the work with the Michigan National Guard and wholeheartedly thank them for everything they do."

The MIARNG also led a brief tour of the Pontiac Armory to highlight the $1.95 million construction project to modernize the armory for women service members. For more information on armory modernization, visit Michigan Army National Guard Enhances Armories through Gov. Whitmer's Transformative Initiative.

Photos of the ceremony are available here: 1775th Military Police Company Ceremony Photo Album.