World War II veterans were all over the Washington area this weekend for the dedication of the World War II Memorial.
Some veterans from Montgomery County got an early start on Friday by attending a breakfast with U.S. Rep Chris Van Hollen (D-8). The breakfast at the Library of Congress was also an opportunity to discuss the "Veteran’s History Project," which features volunteers around the national mall, recording oral histories from veterans.
Van Hollen took the opportunity to address present concerns of veterans, such as providing health benefits that were promised to them during their service. "As we talk about issues important to veterans, it’s important we support them not just through words, but deeds," Van Hollen said.
Others discussed the history project. "The important thing that we need to do right now is capture contemporary history," said Deanna Marcum, associate librarian who is coordinating the project. "We will be adding the stories of hundreds of vets."
The project was started when U.S. Rep. Ron Kind (D-Wis.) started recording the stories of his family members who were veterans. He then realized that the stories he was hearing were just a beginning of what should be a larger project. "We’re trying to preserve an important part of American history,’ Kind said.