In a large, bustling industrial complex where machines hum and production lines move seamlessly, a quiet, striking mural commands attention. This mural, dedicated to the veterans employed by Stellantis (formerly Chrysler), is more than just a piece of art on the wall; it’s a visual embodiment of respect, history and sacrifice. Created by Michael Moore, an 11-year employee of Stellantis, the mural serves as a powerful tribute to those who have served in the military and are now part of the workforce at Stellantis’ Kokomo-area plants.
The Veterans Tribute Wall stands tall within Stellantis’ Kokomo Engine Plant, offering a vibrant depiction of military life, complete with planes, ships, soldiers, and various symbols of different branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. The mural honors the approximately 5,000 veterans employed by Stellantis, many of whom work in the Kokomo-area plants: the Kokomo Engine Plant, Indiana Transmission Plant, Kokomo Transmission Plant, and Kokomo Casting Plant. Michael Moore, with a degree in graphic design, took on the ambitious project of designing and painting the mural as a heartfelt tribute to veterans.
“Every picture in the mural tells a story,” Moore said, emphasizing the personal connections and narratives behind the artwork. This collaborative effort involved the contributions of multiple veterans, each sharing their experiences and memories to influence the mural’s design.
Among the most notable elements is the USS Forrestal, the Navy’s first supercarrier, which holds a significant place in U.S. naval history. Its inclusion in the mural is a nod to the veterans who served aboard the vessel, including fellow Kokomo Engine Plant employee Jeff Mallaber, adding depth and meaning to the artwork. Mallaber, along with other veterans from the plant, provided Moore with inspiration. It not only represents all veterans, but is also a visual narrative of individual stories. Each image, from the aircraft carrier to the soldier’s silhouette, resonates with a specific veteran’s experience. The USS Forrestal, for example, symbolizes the Navy’s proud tradition, while the soldier in the foreground reminds onlookers of the boots-on-the-ground realities of war. There’s a balance between air, sea and land operations, capturing the full spectrum of military involvement in different terrains and environments.
In addition to the military vehicles and personnel, the mural proudly displays the seals of all the military branches, including an American flag that was flown at Camp Cathcart in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan, during Operation Freedom Sentinel, donated by Mallaber. Above the imagery are the words, “In Honor of All Who Served.” This dedication captures the essence of the mural, reminding every employee and visitor of the immense contributions and sacrifices made by veterans in defense of the country.
The mural also reflects Stellantis’ broader commitment to veterans through initiatives like the Stellantis Veterans Group (SVG), a Business Resource Group within the company. Established in 2016, the SVG has grown to include over 300 members, with a mission to support veterans and raise awareness about their unique challenges and contributions.
The SVG serves as a platform for veterans and their supporters, creating opportunities for networking and collaboration. The group also promotes a deeper understanding of veterans’ experiences by organizing events, educational programs and outreach initiatives. The SVG plays a crucial role in ensuring that veterans within the company feel recognized and supported, both as employees and as individuals who have served their country. One of the primary objectives of the SVG is to enhance the veteran culture within Stellantis. By celebrating the service and sacrifices of veterans, the group fosters a sense of pride and camaraderie among its members, creating a strong community within the company. This culture of recognition and support is evident in the mural, which stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to honoring its veterans.
The Veterans Tribute Wall serves as more than just a memorial to those who have served. It’s a vivid reminder of the power of art to bridge gaps between corporate culture and personal experience. In a manufacturing environment, where the focus is typically on production, efficiency and engineering, a piece like this stands out, inviting reflection and fostering a sense of unity among employees. For the veterans who walk by the mural every day, it offers a space of recognition and gratitude. It’s a reminder that their service is not forgotten, and their experiences are valued. For non-veterans, it provides a glimpse into the sacrifices made by their colleagues, promoting greater awareness and understanding.
As Stellantis continues to employ thousands of veterans across its facilities, this mural will stand as a permanent tribute to their contributions, both in the military and in the workplace. The company’s commitment to veterans, as seen through the SVG and the Veterans Tribute Wall, reflects a broader culture of respect and recognition – one that honors the past while looking toward the future. In a world that often moves too fast to pause and reflect, the Veterans Tribute Wall offers a moment of stillness, inviting all who pass by to remember, honor, and be grateful for those who served.
