Actually, the memorial on Belle Isle honors Detroit's Sailors, Marines, and Soldiers.
The soldier on the memorial was likely inspired by Detroit Light Guard & Detroit Light Infantry men, who served in the 31st Michigan Vol. Inf. during SAW conflict.

Other SAW Memorials in Michigan, that come to mind, are a captured Spanish cannon at Three Oaks, Michigan, and a mortar from the "Moro Castle" on the University of Michigan Campus.

BTW - Belle Isle was Detroit's 'Common' during the French and British Colonial Period.
British Lt. Governor, Henry Hamilton, assembled troops and militia on Belle Isle, before embarking on his campaign to the Wabash country. Resulting in Hamilton's defeat and surrender at Vincennes, to a force of Virginians, lead by George Rodgers Clark.

The old French name for the island was "Hog Island". The island was infested with Mississauga Rattlesnakes which were exterminated by free ranging Pigs.

Belle Isle Park has not returned to its early 1900's glory, but, it is enhanced by current State Park status and management.

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