DETROIT, Mich. — The city of Detroit’s finances may be a mess, but the corporation bearing the same name is being heralded today in what’s been dubbed “Detroit Day” in the state of Michigan.

Today marks the 75th anniversary of Detroit Diesel Corporation, since renamed Detroit.

“As a long-time resident of Redford, I am very thankful to have Detroit as my corporate neighbour. Over the years Detroit has been very active and generous in our community – from the Annual Township Fireworks to paving dirt roads. Detroit has played, and will continue to play, an integral part in southeast Michigan and industrial greatness of America,” said Michigan Representative Phil Cavanagh.

Detroit has built more than four million engines at its Redford, Mich. plan, and over the past 10 years the facility has received more than US$750 million in upgrades.

An employee appreciation event was held to recognize the more than 2,300 Detroit employees who work at Redford, as well as the company’s 2,000 retirees. Detroit has employed about 15,000 Michigan residents since 1938.

“Our Employee Appreciation Event provided us with the opportunity to not only commemorate our history, but to celebrate all of the hard-working people behind the brand and products,” said Brad Williamson, manager, engine and component marketing for Daimler Trucks North America. “We are proud of our contributions to not only southeast Michigan, but to the transportation industry. Detroit has been at the forefront of product innovation since 1938, and we will continue to develop industry-leading products from right here in Redford that have a global impact.”