Veterans History Project

There is perhaps no better way to learn about history than through firsthand accounts. You get a better understanding of what really happened when you hear directly from those who lived through the events. That’s what the Veterans History Project (VHP)—an initiative that aims to preserve and make accessible the personal accounts of American war veterans—seeks to do.
Since theVHPwas approved by Congress in 2000, over 100,000 veterans have described their service in audio and video recordings that are now part of the collection. Submissions have been archived from veterans of World War I through Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. These men and women participated and witnessed some pivotal events in our nation’s history.
Arkansans have a long and proud history of supporting our nation’s military. More than 200,000 veterans call Arkansas home, however only 1,200 Arkansas veterans’ stories are part of the VHP collection. I want to make sure this collection includes examples of courage, bravery and service of as many Arkansans who have worn our nation’s uniform as possible.
Many of us have family members and friends who have served in the Armed Forces. Capturing and preserving their memories is a great way to honor their service and commitment to our country.
For more information on how you can participate in the Veterans History Project, visithttp://www.loc.gov/vets
Maddie Willyard was born in Puerto Rico and moved to Chicago when she was 7 years old. In high school, her family moved to a northern suburb because of safety concerns. While Willyard’s family has a history of military service, her path to wearing our nation’s uniform started as a result of trying to avoid an angry teacher who was upset she did not complete her homework. Clickhereto learn more about Maddie's time in service.
Chris Traxson was born in Rogers and graduated from Rogers High School in 1999. He served as a police officer for his hometown and, after a year in that role, enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve. He isfrom a family with a history of military service andwas inspired to serveinthe War on Terror.Traxsonwanted to serve on the frontlines andwas convinced the Marineinfantrydivisionwas the quickestpath to combat. In 2006, he was deployed to Fallujah.He’d only been in Iraq four weeks when he was injured by an IED. Clickhereto learn more about Traxson's service and his recovery.