How Veterans Can Share Their Stories with the Veterans History Project

Veterans interested in contributing their stories to the Veterans History Project (VHP) can easily participate by following a few steps. The VHP, managed by the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, seeks to preserve personal accounts of U.S. veterans through interviews, photographs, letters, and memoirs. To participate, veterans or their family members can submit collections either by conducting an interview or by sending in original documents and materials.

First, veterans or those helping them can download the VHP Field Kit from the Library of Congress website, which includes detailed guidelines on how to record oral history interviews and collect other materials. Once the interview is completed or the materials are ready, contributors can mail their submissions directly to the Library of Congress. The VHP accepts submissions from veterans who served in any capacity from World War I through current conflicts, provided they were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Volunteers, students, and community members are also encouraged to participate by helping veterans document their experiences​ The Library of Congress The Library of Congress.

Veterans History Project: Preserving the Stories of America’s Heroes

The Veterans History Project (VHP), managed by the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, was established by Congress in 2000 to preserve and share the personal stories of U.S. military veterans. The project’s primary mission is to collect firsthand accounts from veterans who served in conflicts ranging from World War I to the present, ensuring their experiences are accessible to future generations. These oral histories, letters, photographs, and memoirs serve as vital resources for researchers and educators, offering a unique and personal insight into the realities of war​ The Library of Congress House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.

Veterans and their families are encouraged to contribute to the project by recording interviews or submitting personal items that document their military service. The VHP accepts a wide range of materials, including written narratives, audio and video recordings, and photographs. Volunteers, students, and veterans’ organizations often play a significant role in gathering these stories, helping expand the VHP’s collection, which includes over 65,000 items and grows by hundreds each year​ The Library of Congress Indian River State College.

One of the key strengths of the VHP is its accessibility. All of the archived materials are available to the public through the Library of Congress’ digital collections, offering a treasure trove of firsthand military accounts. From World War II veterans to those who served in more recent conflicts like the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, the project captures the diverse experiences of servicemen and women across different eras and branches of the military​ The Library of Congress The Library of Congress.

The project also highlights specific groups within the veteran community, such as Gold Star families, whose contributions are part of a broader initiative to include the stories of loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice. This expansion has enabled the VHP to offer a more comprehensive view of military service and its profound impact on both veterans and their families​ The Library of Congress.

As the Veterans History Project continues to grow, it plays a crucial role in helping future generations understand the cost of war and the personal sacrifices made by those in uniform. By preserving these stories, the VHP ensures that the experiences of veterans will not be forgotten and can continue to educate and inspire for years to come​ The Library of Congress House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.