Honoring History Through Storytelling: The Veterans History Project 

This week on The Maria Liberati Show, we’re thrilled to welcome Monica Mohindra, Director of the Veterans History Project (VHP) at the Library of Congress. Monica shares insights into this incredible initiative, which preserves the personal stories of U.S. military veterans, ensuring their experiences are accessible to future generations.  

How It All Began  

The Veterans History Project was born from a simple yet powerful moment of reflection. A member of Congress, during a family Veterans Day picnic, listened to his uncles and father recount their military service. As he watched his young sons, he realized they might not fully understand these stories until much later. To bridge that gap, he recorded their conversations, planting the seed for a project that would soon grow into a national archive.  

Thanks to bipartisan support in Congress, the Veterans History Project became a reality, offering everyone the chance to capture and preserve veterans’ stories. From World War I to recent conflicts, these firsthand accounts offer a deeply personal lens on history.  

Capturing Stories Before They’re Lost  

One of the most compelling aspects of VHP is its urgency—collecting stories before they fade from memory. Today, recording these accounts is easier than ever, with many of us carrying powerful recording devices in our pockets. But VHP accepts more than just recordings; they also preserve photographs, letters, and audio correspondence.  

The project welcomes contributions from veterans and their families, helping to document their experiences for generations to come. Maria Liberati notes that personal stories, like those shared by her own uncle, often bring history to life in ways that books cannot.  

How to Get Involved  

The Veterans History Project encourages participation from anyone aged 15 and older. Whether you’re a student, family member, or community member, you can help document the stories of veterans in your life.  

Getting started is simple:  

– Visit [loc.gov/vets](https://www.loc.gov/vets/) to learn how to contribute.  

– Explore the growing archive, which houses over 120,000 personal accounts.  

– Use the website to access guidelines for recording and submitting materials.  

Holiday Opportunity  

As the holiday season approaches, Monica suggests it’s the perfect time to engage with the veterans in your family. Gather around during holiday festivities and encourage them to share their stories. This act of listening and preserving is a profound gift—not just for the veteran, but for the entire family.  

The Veterans History Project reminds us that every veteran is a witness to history. Their stories connect us to a shared past, enriching our understanding of the present. This holiday season, consider giving the gift of time and attention. Sit down, listen, and honor the stories that have shaped our nation.  

For more information on how to participate or access these powerful stories, visit the [Veterans History Project website](https://www.loc.gov/vets/).

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