·         World War II (1939-1946)

·         Korean War (1950-1955)

·         Vietnam War (1961-1975)

·         Persian Gulf War (1990-1995)

·         The Bosnian War (1992–1995)

·         Afghanistan and Iraq conflicts (2001-present)

The Library also seeks the stories of civilians who were involved in supporting the war effort — such as by actively participating in the war industry, with the USO, or with medical volunteerism. Their stories provide valuable illustration of the relationship between the military and citizenry.

The Oral History Program is dedicated to further conserving the unique personal stories and memories of the citizen solider — not just high ranking officers, recognizable faces from history, or soldiers who have had their stories told already — but all of those men and women, from all walks of life, that have served and sacrificed for our country.

Oral Historians seek to preserve these stories through first-hand accounts, told in the narrator’s own voice, so that others may better understand the viewpoints of fellow members of a democratic society. While memories often change over time, these narratives provide an opportunity to further explore and appreciate history, exposing details that may otherwise be lost to us.

If you feel that you have a unique story to pass on to future generations, and if you would like that story to be made available to a rapidly growing library patronage, please either contact our Oral History Coordinator or take the next step by clicking on the link and filling out the biographical survey. Once you have completed and submitted the biographical survey, a staff member will contact you regarding further steps.