Michigan Military Technical Historical Society

10/16/2026

Marston Mat, more properly called Pierced Steel Planking or PSP, is standardized, perforated steel matting material developed by the United States shortly before World War II, it was used for the rapid construction of temporary airfields or roadways.
Once the land was cleared by Engineers, PSP would have been laid down to make a firm surface for aircraft and/or vehicles
The mat came in 10-foot-long sections. PSP is still widely used around the globe.
We knew that 29 Companies made Marston Mat during WWII, but we had not confirmed that any Michigan companies made it.
Thanks to David D Jackson for helping confirm the following Michigan Companies had contracts:
Reynolds Spring Company, Jackson, MI
Union Steel Products, Albion, MI
United Steel and Wire Company, Battle Creek, MI
Wall Wire Products, Plymouth, MI

Check out David’s site at: https://usautoindustryworldwartwo.com/

10/15/2026

Make sure it all fits before finish welding....

10/13/2026

Huge thanks to United Way and the folks from Link Engineering for volunteering to help clean the museum flower beds today. It looks so much better out front now!

10/13/2026

Our Flag is at half-staff today to honor and remember former state Senator John Pappageorge.

John Pappageorge was born in Detroit in 1931, growing up on the East Side before attending Roosevelt Military Academy in Illinois for high school. After graduating, he returned to Detroit and worked on the auto assembly line until he received an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Pappageorge finished a 30-year Army career as a highly decorated officer and retired as a Colonel.

After retiring from the Army, Pappageorge worked for General Dynamics Land Systems. He later joined public service in 1989 when he was elected Oakland County Commissioner. He also served in the Michigan State House of Representatives and the Michigan State Senate where he focused on security and veteran affairs. He retired from politics in 2015.

10/12/2026

15 YEARS OF PRESERVING MICHIGAN'S MILITARY HISTORY — HELP US BUILD THE NEXT CHAPTER!
This November 11th, the Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society Museum celebrates 15 years in Eastpointe!
What started as a dream in 2011 has grown into an 11,000-square-foot museum dedicated to preserving the stories of Michigan's men and women who served and sacrificed for our country.
It hasn't always been easy. We've survived financial challenges, unexpected repairs, and even a global pandemic. But thanks to our dedicated volunteers, members, and supporters, we're still here — and we're still growing!
2026 has been a busy year! We've tackled major roof repairs, dealt with two unexpected HVAC failures, improved our building, and continued caring for our growing collection of military vehicles, equipment, uniforms, and artifacts.
But preserving history takes more than dedication. It takes financial support.
❤️ WE NEED YOUR HELP!
As we launch our 2026 Annual Appeal, we're asking our friends and supporters to consider making a year-end donation.
Your gift helps us:
🇺🇸 Preserve Michigan's military history and the stories behind it.
🔧 Maintain our building and restore historic vehicles and equipment.
🎓 Educate students, families, and future generations.
🏛️ Keep our museum open and growing for years to come.
Whether it's $25, $50, $100, or more, every donation makes a difference!
We've accomplished a lot in our first 15 years, but there's still so much more to do.
History doesn't preserve itself. With your help, we can make sure Michigan's military stories are never forgotten.
🇺🇸 Please consider supporting our 2026 Annual Appeal!
🌐 https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/2026-annual-appeal-9
PRESERVING MICHIGAN'S CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEFENSE OF DEMOCRACY
Thank you for helping us preserve the past and build for the future!

2026 ANNUAL APPEAL Dear Friend of the Museum, History does not preserve itself. It takes people who care enough to make sure it is never forgotten. On…

10/12/2026

Do you have a child at home who loves building things? They should join the Young Modelers Club! Every Saturday morning from 11AM - 1PM at The Michigan Military Technical and Historical Society Museum, kids ages 8 to 16 learn model-building techniques! Parents are welcome to join in as well. No charge to join! For more information, contact [email protected] or 586-875-2581.