From Georgia to Grosse Pointe: Doug Horst finds purpose at the War Memorial
GROSSE POINTE FARMS, Dec. 29, 2025 – You may have seen him at War Memorial events like SummerFest, Holiday Tree Lighting, and Memorial Day. Now, it’s time to get to know War Memorial volunteer Doug Horst a little better.
The War Memorial sat down with Horst for an interview that touched on his background, his interest in volunteering at the nonprofit organization, and more. Horst, of Grosse Pointe Park, moved to the area a few years ago after spending much of his life in Georgia.
The War Memorial (TWM): Thanks for being here today Doug. To begin, tell us about your background?
Doug Horst (DH): My wife was born and raised here, and then we met in college at Miami of Ohio. I was in Atlanta from 1972 until we came up here around 2023. Our daughter wound up moving up here, so it was only a matter of time until we came back. I was in the paper business in Atlanta, starting at a small company and working in sales promotion, outside sales, and then I was a sales manager. I took a pay cut in 1985 to start my company, InfoPro. At first we sold computer supplies, paper and printed forms. Now, we have an embroidery plant and a printing plant.
TWM: What events and experiences have you come to The War Memorial for over the years?
DH: We were here for the dedication of Les Braves, we’ve been in attendance at other programs and I’m a member of the Grosse Pointe Men’s Club. It was through coming to an event or two here when I first wanted to get involved.
TWM: Why do you volunteer at The War Memorial?
DH: I love to volunteer because for one, you can give back to the community. I think the volunteer experience is wonderful. I’m an usher at Grosse Pointe Memorial Church and meeting and greeting people is a strength. Growing up, my father would say only get out of something what you put into it and I think volunteering makes such a difference. I feel like with my outgoing personality, I have the enthusiasm and the smile to make people feel welcome. When I’m working the front door at events, I know that I help in a small way to create a more positive experience for the public.
TWM: What were your first impressions of The War Memorial?
DH: The word that comes to mind is a gift. This is such a special place, and with having the Alger House, there’s not really any place like this. I was in Atlanta for a long time, and there’s nothing like this. The War Memorial is a treasure and all the folks involved had the wisdom to save this place and make it into what it is. It’s a beautiful setting for the broad diversity of offerings for the community. Having an outdoor setting here too is really wonderful.
TWM: In being a volunteer here, what have you learned about The War Memorial?
DH: I’ve learned about the people who lived here, and the importance of history and tradition of The War Memorial. It’s such an anchor in the community. From an architectural and design point of view, it’s so open with windows everywhere. You can blend contemporary architecture with the old architecture.
TWM: Why should others volunteer here, like you do?
DH: You can come here for an event and leave and you wouldn’t get nearly the satisfaction, the enrichment, and the fulfillment that you get from volunteering and diving into it. It all starts with the people, the programs and the setting. You get so much out of volunteering.
Whether you're helping with public programs, visitor engagement, or behind‑the‑scenes work, volunteering at The War Memorial connects you to a place that is rooted in history and community.
If volunteering more in the new year is a resolution of yours, be sure to visit warmemorial.org/volunteer so you can join people like Doug in giving of your time and talents at The War Memorial. Happy New Year!
About The War Memorial
The War Memorial, located on the shores of Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe Farms, is a nonprofit cultural and community center dedicated to honoring veterans, enriching lives, and bringing people together through meaningful experiences. For more than 75 years, The War Memorial has welcomed thousands of guests annually for arts and cultural programming, patriotic observances, educational opportunities, community events, and private gatherings across its historic lakefront property.
As a dynamic and forward-thinking hub for southeast Michigan, The War Memorial remains committed to fostering community engagement through accessible programs that recognize the service and sacrifice of veterans and provide opportunities that spark connection, learning, creativity, and civic engagement. The organization proudly upholds this legacy of service while creating a sense of belonging for everyone from everywhere.
CONTACT:
Alex Szwarc, The War Memorial
Patriotic Programming and Communications Administrator
313.881.7514, aszwarc@warmemorial.org