Gordon: Preserve The Stories of Our Veterans

November 6, 2007, WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon is urging families to take a few minutes at the next family gathering to interview any veterans in the family so their unique stories can be preserved through the National Veterans History Project.

“It’s important to preserve the stories of our veterans for future generations,” said Gordon. “As families gather for Thanksgiving, take time to record the experiences of the veterans in the family. Take a few moments and interview Grandpa or Aunt Jane or Cousin Charlie before the opportunity is lost.”

On Monday, the U.S. House of Representatives approved a resolution to support and encourage participation in the National Veterans History Project. The initiative was created by Congress in 2000 to honor veterans by preserving their stories at the Library of Congress.

Through the project, the oral histories, photographs, diaries, letters and other original materials from American veterans are being collected so future generations can learn the stories of veterans from World War I to Iraq and Afghanistan. In addition to veterans, civilians who were actively involved in the war efforts may share their stories of support for the military.

Once the stories and artifacts are submitted to the Library of Congress, they become part of the nation’s history. Researchers can access the materials in person at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., and it becomes available online at the library’s Web site.

“Each of our nation’s veterans has a unique story of service,” said Gordon. “Through initiatives like the Veterans History Project, we can ensure those stories of bravery, perseverance and camaraderie are preserved.”

Veterans should contact the Library of Congress to obtain a free instructional kit for participating in the project. Members of the public also can obtain a kit and interview veterans in their family or community.

For more information about participating in the National Veterans History Project, contact the Library of Congress at www.loc.gov/vets or call the project toll-free at (888) 371-5848.