WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. John Tanner announced that his office is partnering with the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project to record an oral history of Tennessee’s military service through the stories of veterans from the 8th Congressional District. The Library of Congress will catalog video interviews conducted for the initiative.
“Many generations of Tennesseans have bravely answered the call to service,” Congressman Tanner said. “They have made history, and it is important that we help them document their first-hand experiences, share their stories of military life and combat, and honor their comrades, many of whom gave their lives in service.”
Since Congress created the Veterans History Project in 2000, it has compiled personal accounts and artifacts from more than 60,000 veterans, from World War I through the ongoing conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. The Veterans History Project accepts submissions from anyone who wants to help record a veteran’s memories.
“We hope veterans, family members, students and others will join us in documenting the memories of their loved ones, friends and neighbors who have honorably served our country in uniform,” Tanner said. “This program is one of the best ways to ensure their service is remembered forever.”
More information on the Veterans History Project, including guidelines for participating, is online at www.loc.gov/vets.
About Congressman John Tanner
A veteran of the U.S. Navy and the Tennessee Army National Guard, Tanner represents the 8th Congressional District in West and Middle Tennessee. Co-founder of the fiscally conservative Blue Dog Democrats, Tanner serves on the Ways and Means Committee, where he chairs the Social Security Subcommittee, and on the Foreign Affairs Committee. He chairs the U.S. delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and is serving a two-year term as NATO PA President.
