The Masons of Dowagiac are pleased to announce that Don Alsbro will be the featured speaker for the Memorial Day ceremonies at City Hall Monday.

Alsbro grew up in Plymouth, Mich., and graduated from Western Michigan University in 1962.

He entered the Army in 1963 and spent 31 years in the military, attaining the rank of colonel.

He had two tours in Vietnam, one with the First Cavalry Division (Airmobile) in 1966-67 and one with the 4th Infantry Division and the Americal Division in 1970-71.

During his military career he served in the Infantry, Adjutant General and Medical Service Corps.  He received several awards including the Meritorious Service  Medal (two awards), Bronze Star (three awards) and the Army Commendation Medal (two awards).

In the educational field, Don attended Roosevelt University, Western Michigan University and Eastern Michigan University, attaining various educational degrees which culminated in receiving a doctorate in education administration from Wayne State University in 1988.

He was a professor at Lake Michigan College, where he was athletic director and taught  health and physical education for more than 30 years.

He is a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES).

Don developed an exercise program, “Dump Your Plump,” which has been used in more than 1,000 locations throughout the United States.

He is the author of several books on health and wellness and has presented at health conferences throughout the nation.

Don is the founder and president of the patriotic organization Lest We Forget of Southwestern Michigan.

This organization has produced World War II re-enactments, written several books on veterans stories, conducted patriotic concerts and received many awards.

Don has been inducted into the WMU ROTC Alumni Hall of Fame and the LMC Athletic Hall of Fame.

In 2008, he received the Liberty Bell Award from the Berrien County Bar Association. In 2009, he was honored with the selection of the Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award.

Ceremonies begin at 10:30 a.m. May 31, followed by the parade to Riverside Cemetery.