Ford Fireworks in Detroit Highlight Ford Motor Company's Commitment to Region, Military and Social Services

• Ford sponsorship of The Parade Company’s 57th annual fireworks display in Detroit highlights long-term commitment to southeast Michigan

• Ford Fireworks celebration this year includes special salute to nation’s military with a flyover by World War II-era airplanes from Yankee Air Museum

• Ford is also supporting Cass Community Social Services’ Catch the Fireworks fundraiser; Former Detroit Piston Vinnie Johnson to serve as honorary chair

DETROIT - June 19, 2015: Ford Motor Company celebrates its commitment to southeast Michigan with the Ford Fireworks in Detroit on Monday, June 22, including a special salute to the nation’s military with a flyover by World War II-era airplanes.

“Ford has been a part of this community for more than a century. We are proud to give back by supporting events like the fireworks, which benefit not just Detroit, but the entire region”

Ford is title sponsor of the Ford Fireworks in Detroit through a multiyear partnership with The Parade Company. Featuring more than 10,000 pyrotechnic effects visible for miles along the Detroit River, the fireworks event, now in its 57th year, will begin at 10:06 p.m.

As part of the celebration, Ford Motor Company Fund, the company’s philanthropic arm, is collaborating with Yankee Air Museum in Belleville, Mich., to host Focus on Freedom. This special event honors 250 current and former members of the military and their families with a reception at the Detroit/Wayne Port Authority building, and an up-close view of the fireworks.

This year, three airplanes from the Yankee Air Museum — a B-17 Flying Fortress, B-25 Mitchell and Douglas C-47D Skytrain — will make several passes along the Detroit Riverfront about 90 minutes before the fireworks begin.

“Ford has been a part of this community for more than a century. We are proud to give back by supporting events like the fireworks, which benefit not just Detroit, but the entire region,” said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund and Community Services. “The Ford Fireworks celebration is also our way of thanking the men and women of the armed forces who make our freedom possible.”

Ford is also supporting Cass Community Social Services on its signature annual fundraiser, Catch the Fireworks. Former Detroit Piston Vinnie Johnson will serve as honorary chair. The event will take place at Coach Insignia restaurant atop the Renaissance Center, where guests will be able to watch the fireworks display.

Over the past 10 years, Ford Fund has donated $150 million to organizations throughout southeast Michigan, supporting community, education and vehicle safety programs. In addition, Ford employees around the world donate their time and expertise to community improvement projects. Earlier this month, more than 500 volunteers participated in dozens of projects for an Accelerated Action Day focused on the environment.

The Ford Fireworks can be viewed on WDIV-Local 4’s live broadcast beginning at 8 p.m. News/Talk 760 WJR will do a special radio simulcast throughout the event and provide up-to-the-minute traffic and weather information throughout the day. Follow the event on social media at #fordfireworks.