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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, 2003 column
A syndicated column in over 40 East Texas newspapers
Published with permission
World
War II Chronicles
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