The Veterans History Project (VHP) 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.

The United States Congress created the VHP in 2000 as part of the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, one of the world’s most respected research and cultural institutions. 

Why should you participate?

As a primary source, researchers, scholars, and educators rely upon VHP collections. These oral histories, photographs, manuscripts, and other original materials are a rich supplement to historical texts and a valued cultural resource. And veterans’ family members treasure the memories that are permanently preserved at the Library of Congress.

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 are also welcomed to participate. We also need volunteers to help out with collection efforts.

How can I participate?

You can sit down with one of our volunteers and have a conversation about your military service.  This will be a videotaped interview and must be a minimum of 30 minutes.  Additionally, you can submit a collection of original photographs or documents that tell your story.  We can use photographs or documents from deceased veterans so that their perspectives of their military service are not lost. You can also volunteer to interview veterans.

Contact Veteran Outreach Liaison Cory Spoor at 336-333-5005 for more details on the VHP and how you can get involved.