Michael H. Zang was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1951. He received his education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, The Pennsylvania State University, and the United States Army War College. In 1969, he met SSG Ernest V. Focht’s daughter, Karen, and they married in 1973. Over the course of the next 30 years, Michael eavesdropped as Ernie spoke to anyone who would listen to his experiences as a World War II Prisoner of War. These stories, in combination with his personal interest in military history, led to his desire to memorialize SSG Focht’s experiences. Michael retired in 2003 from the United States Army Reserves at the rank of Colonel. During his time in the military, he commanded units at the Company, Battalion, and Brigade levels and was involved in Operation Desert Shield/Storm operating seaports throughout the Eastern Seaboard of the United States, Europe, and Saudi Arabia. In his civilian career, Michael worked in four school districts in Central Pennsylvania as a teacher and administrator. He culminated a 38-year education career in 2011, retiring as an Elementary Principal. Michael and Karen reside in Central Pennsylvania.
