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Tom Brokaw,
the author of "The Greatest Generation," said it best: "Heroes are
people who rise to the occasion and then slip quietly away." He
was, of course, talking about the veterans of America's wars. Today's
generations, and future ones, have much to learn from the men who
left their homes and families to defend America. Many never came
home. A project in East Texas is gearing up to preserve veterans'
memories, as well as their letters, diaries, photographs, maps and
home movies, all of which will be of immeasurable value to historians,
educators, authors and filmmakers.
The Veterans History Project of the U.S. Library of Congress is
likely to find a wealth of remarkable, untold personal stories hidden
in our veterans' memorabilia.
A good example is John Taylor of Lufkin, who parachuted into
France on D-Day and helped end World War II. I've read John's book
twice and heard him speak three times to community groups. Each
time I have been awed by his bravery.
Working with the Veterans History Project, Tyler Junior College
has started enrolling veterans for interviews, videotaping and reproduction
of old photographs and documents in their possession.
This is the first time in the nation's history that an organized
effort has been made to collect and record the personal experiences
of individual veterans and the people who supported them during
America's wars. If you were a veteran or someone who served in support
of the men and women who saw service during World War I, World War
II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Persian Gulf wars,
this is your chance to tell your story for posterity.
While the first priority of the project is to focus on the most
senior veterans, such as those who served during World Wars I and
II, and those who supported them, all veterans are encouraged to
participate. Time is critical. The number of American veterans dwindles
every day. If you live in East Texas, and would like to be a part
of this historic effort, call Tyler Junior College' Seniors College
at 903-510-2900 and register. A minimum charge of $25.00 will cover
the costs of your interview video, a personal copy for you, and
sending photocopies and a DVD version to be archived in Washington,
D.C.
Registration and orientation sessions begin August 28, photocopies
of documents, photographs and other materials will be scheduled
September 2-4, and videotaped interviews will start on September
8. TJC is also looking for volunteer interviewers and will train
you for the job.
So, veterans, get out of your recliners and call TJC. East Texas
and America is waiting to hear your stories.
All
Things Historical
July
27-August 2, 2003 column
A syndicated column in over 40 East Texas newspapers
Published with permission
All Things Historical is a public service of the East Texas Historical
Association. Bob Bowman of Lufkin is the author of nearly 30 books
and a former president of the Association.
World
War II Chronicles
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