Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers said the stories of veterans will be preserved in America’s archives at the Library of Congress for generations to come
RaeLynn Ricarte
The Center Square
Every warrior has a story to tell and Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Spokane, wants to collect them all for a national history project.
McMorris Rodgers said the stories of veterans will be preserved in America’s archives at the Library of Congress for generations to come. Information will provide the nation’s youth with valuable lessons about the true meaning of service and sacrifice.
“We must never let our children and grandchildren forget the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom, which is why I’m excited about the Veterans History Project,” she said in a written statement on Veterans Day.
According to U.S. Census Bureau data, there are about 19 million veterans in the United States, with about 13 million ages 50 and older.
McMorris Rodgers said Congress created the history project in 2000 to capture the firsthand recollections of those who served in all branches of the military. She said veterans may submit an audio or visual interview, as well as photographs, letters, diaries, maps and other historical documents.
“The men and women who put on the uniform and made a commitment to defend our country were willing to fly to a far-off land, do whatever it takes, and even lay their life on the line for our freedom and security. They are American heroes,” said McMorris Rodgers.
The stories will allow people to better understand what veterans saw, did and felt during their service, even if they did not see combat, she said.
Anyone, including students ages 15 or older, may volunteer to conduct an oral interview with a veteran, or gather and donate an individual’s original photographs and documents. Veterans are also welcome to submit their own materials for the project.
McMorris Rodgers said the project is a grassroots effort reliant upon participation by military families. She is hopeful that veterans in her Fifth District will step forward to illustrate the rich military history of the region.
Veterans wanting to learn more are invited to contact McMorris Rodgers’ office online or call (509) 353-2374.
This story was first published by The Center Square.
Also read:
- High school football: Camas, Seton Catholic, and Woodland conquer Championship Friday
Camas, Seton Catholic, and Woodland claim league championships, advancing to playoffs in Southwest Washington high school football. - Letter: ‘The current bridge plan hurts economic development on BOTH sides of the river’Sam Churchill from Hayden Island shares his concerns over the economic impact of the current I-5 Bridge replacement proposal on both sides of the river.
- Board of Health extends application deadline for education position on Public Health Advisory Council
Clark County Board of Health extends application deadline for education position on Public Health Advisory Council, with a term ending Sept. 30, 2027. - Letter: ‘We students are counting on voters to show up to the polls again’Vancouver’s Tammy Pham urges voters to reject I-2109, safeguarding essential education funding and youth opportunities.
- Shooting at Vancouver Mall leaves one dead, two injuredOne dead, two injured after a targeted shooting during a trick-or-treat event at Vancouver Mall, investigated by Vancouver Police Department.
- High school football: This is one of the greatest Week 9 schedules in Clark County historyHigh school football fans in Clark County Washington are in for a thrilling Friday night with three unbeaten teams competing for league championships.
- POLL: Should Clark County increase surveillance or add security at all ballot drop box locations?Clark County Today’s weekly poll asks if increased security measures at ballot drop boxes are necessary to boost voter confidence or if the cost is too high.
