In an effort to preserve the history of all of those who served in WWII the Library of Congress is collecting veteran’s stories, so that this time in history will be preserved for generations to come.  I am trying to collect as many stories as possible to send to the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress.*  For more information you can visit http://www.loc.gov/vets.   What started as a fascination with my father has turned into a real passion of two hour breakfasts with the men and women who displayed a real fortitude, often covered by a sincere modesty. It is a real honor to listen and record the stories of the men and women who served in all capacities of WWII - and hear about their life.

Here are a few comments and questions I usually get.

1. I don’t have much to tell and my story is not all that exciting.

History is like good vegetable soup.  Many varied ingredients are required to get that deep wonderful, rich flavor.  Everyone has a story to tell.  In my mind fascinating things happen to everyone.  People you meet. Sights your will always remember.  Friends that you’ve had for a lifetime.  Divine Intervention.  Luck.  Love.  Relief and even grief.  It’s the story itself that brings us closer together.  And this is what I would love to record for future generations and for your family.  All experiences are of interest .....and the first cup of coffee is on me!

2. There are some things I won’t tell to anyone.

That comment will be completely honored.  The intent is connecting around history and life stories - with total repect for boundries around what is comfortable and not comfortable to share.  Ten minute conversation can quickly turn into an hour conversations that jumps from past to current life situations.  Again - it’s the story itself that brings us closer together.  My first rule as a historian is to listen - without judgement.  I feel honored to be a unique witness to your life’s history without placing judgement on any part of your experience.

* Currently I am focusing on tape recorded histories.  If time and/or technology permits I will transcribe these stories to paper and submit them in the paper format as well.  If you have a paper version you can submit it directly to the Veterans History Project or I will gladly send it in for you.  I am also doing research for a possible book.  All information submitted and or recorded by me will be sent to the Veterans History Project and to family members if requested.  With a veterans permission, and only with his permission, will his or her information be used in this book.  It will be the Veterans choice if he or she wishes to be identified.  In general the concept of the book is more about the men and women of this generation, then about war experiences.  But since the war was such a big part of their life, some of this information will be a naturally cross-over into their life experiences.

For more information or to schedule a breakfast contact:

Dan Cavanaugh
412.334.2044
dan.cavanaugh@brideshow.com