Veterans have stories to share. Every experience they've had serving our nation sheds light on the challenges, victories and impacts that service in the military has on Americans. Congressman Banks wants to work with veterans from northeast Indiana who are willing to share their story so that future generations can learn, explore and better appreciate their sacrifice for the protection of our country. The Veterans History Project allows us to work with veterans to have their stories preserved for future generations through the Library of Congress.
"As a veteran myself, I have a unique appreciation for the impact of one's service to their country on their live and the lives of those around them. There is so much that can be learned from those who came before us. I encourage my fellow veterans to share their stories so that future generations can benefit from their experiences to improve their understanding of the veteran experience” – Congressman Jim Banks
Sign up to get interviewed for the Veteran History Project with Congressman Banks' office today. Our team will work with you to prepare for your interview and make sure you have all the material you need before we set up to record your story. The story of your service to our country will be recorded and accessible for posterity. To get started, all you need to do is fill out the form below.
The Veterans History Project of the American Folklife Center collects, preserves, and makes accessible the personal accounts of American war veterans so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities of war. This program was passed into law by Congress in 2000 and has been collecting the stories of those who have served our country and storing them for Americans to learn and share about our past. You can learn more about the program on the Veterans History Project website (https://www.loc.gov/vets/about.html).
Who can participate?
Veterans who served in the United States military during wartime, in any capacity, from World War II through the present and are no longer serving, are eligible to participate, regardless of branch or rank. Civilians who served in support of a United States war effort in a professional capacity also are welcome to participate.
Why should you participate?
As a primary source, researchers, scholars and educators rely upon Veterans History Project collections. These oral histories, photographs, manuscripts and other original materials are a rich supplement to historical texts and a valued cultural resource. Veterans’ family members treasure the memories that are permanently preserved at the Library of Congress for future generations.
How can I participate?
There are two ways to participate. The first is to sit down with a member of our office team and have a conversation about your military service. The other way is to submit a collection of original photographs or documents that tell your story. We are able to use photographs or documents from a deceased veteran so that their perspectives of their military service is not lost. Either way, please fill out the form below so we can get you what you need to start the process.
We appreciate your interest in being a part of this program. If you have any questions, please contact Andy Porter in our office at 260-702-4750 or email him at Andy.Porter@mail.house.gov for more information.
