Richter Learning Center at new Holly Middle School honors local war hero, community leader
New facility to educate generations of Bronchos about Richter’s contributions to country, community
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025
CONTACT: Christopher Behnan, Byrum & Fisk Advocacy Communications, (248) 767-4377
Richter Learning Center at new Holly Middle School honors local war hero, community leader
New facility to educate generations of Bronchos about Richter’s contributions to country, community
HOLLY, Mich. — The Richter Learning Center and Karl Richter Memorial Display in the new, state-of-the art Holly Middle School will educate generations of Bronchos about the many sacrifices and contributions of Karl Wendell Richter, a 1960 Holly High School graduate, Vietnam War veteran and community leader.
The new Holly Middle School, located on the Karl Richter Campus, continues to celebrate and preserve Richter’s memory. The centrally located display case showcases artifacts and historical materials that commemorate Richter’s life and service. While the former administration building included a Richter display, the new building has far greater foot traffic that will give more people the opportunity to view the new display.
“Karl Richter reflects the best of our values at Holly Area Schools: leadership, perseverance and selfless service to others, and we are excited to continue honoring him at our brand-new middle school,” said Scott Roper, Holly Area Schools superintendent. “Our new Richter Learning Center and Karl Richter Memorial Display will help generations of Bronchos learn about his legacy and contributions to our country and Broncho community.”
At Holly High School, Richter was an exceptional student leader and student-athlete, named class president and earned varsity letters in football, basketball and track. His passion for aviation was encouraged by his sister, Betty May, who supported his dream of flying. By his high school graduation, the young Broncho was already an experienced pilot. With his sister’s encouragement, he was appointed to the U.S. Air Force Academy and became a cadet in Squadron 8 just nine days after graduation.
Richter graduated as a second lieutenant on June 3, 1964. His talent and courage were soon in demand during the Vietnam War, where he distinguished himself with exceptional bravery and devotion. Richter’s missions earned him several awards and honors including the Silver Star, a Distinguished Flying Cross, an Air Medal with Multiple Oak Leaf Clusters, a Vietnam Service Medal, a Purple Heart and an Air Force Cross.
Richter was killed in action on July 28, 1967, while serving his country in North Vietnam.
“It is important that we remember and honor what Karl Richter did for our country and for our community, and I am excited to share that with our students,” said Holly Middle School Principal Monica Turner. “The learning center’s new name and the display case that honors his legacy is part of our continued efforts to teach our Bronchos about living a life of sacrifice and service.”
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The Richter Learning Center at the new, state-of-the-art Holly Middle School.
Karl Wendell Richter
Karl Richter Memorial Display at the new Holly Middle School.
Mementos from Karl Richter’s Holly High School athletic career.
Photo and newspaper clipping featuring Karl Richter in the new memorial display.
Statute of Karl Richter erected at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama.
Richter Learning Center at the New Middle School Press Release