Lest They Be Forgotten

Oakland County Military Memorial

It was created by Michigan veteran and father, John “Skip” Bushart, after the unimaginable loss of his son, Pfc. Damian Bushart, who was killed in Iraq. Out of that grief, Skip made a vow: that no Michigan service member who gave their life in Iraq or Afghanistan would ever be forgotten. That vow became the Lest They Be Forgotten Memorial Project.

Standing beside the Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial on the grounds of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, the memorial was officially unveiled in October 2019. At its dedication, more than 250 people gathered in quiet reflection to honor the 22 soldiers from Oakland County who made the ultimate sacrifice during Operation Iraqi Freedom. It was a somber, deeply moving moment — a community standing together to remember its fallen soldiers.

At the heart of the memorial is a powerful symbol: an inverted rifle with boots and a helmet — a battlefield tribute to those who will never come home. Surrounding it are the faces of the fallen, each accompanied by their rank, branch of service, hometown, and the medals they earned in service to our nation. These are not just names — they are stories, families, and lives forever changed.

The memorial itself was built through the compassion and generosity of many. Individuals, veterans’ organizations, foundations, and groups such as the American Legion, the Anderson Family Foundation, UAW Region 1, and a dedicated community of bikers all contributed to make it possible. The Fallen Heroes Memorial Foundation also received countless donations of materials, labor, and expertise. Time, talent, and heart were given freely — especially by the bikers, whose support was extraordinary.

Together, this community ensured that these heroes would not fade into history.