The ongoing Library of Congress Veterans History Project (VHP) is making a special effort to capture the unique experiences of veterans, with a particular focus this summer on those with blindness or low vision. The upcoming BVA 80th National Convention offers an excellent opportunity for BVA members to participate in this national project, now in its 25th year. A large percentage of convention attendees have already committed to participating in the project in Dallas. 

“We are thrilled to announce that the VHP team for this important initiative will be joining us at the convention,” said BVA National Legislative Director Lea Rowe. “This is a unique chance for our veterans to have their personal story, their service, and their perspective historically preserved by the Library of Congress with their voice and experiences becoming a part of this vital national archive for future generations!” 

The sharing of personal stories is a powerful way to ensure that the sacrifices and contributions of blind or low vision veterans are recognized and remembered. The VHP team will be present in Dallas to respectfully record veterans’ experiences. 

The Veterans History Project of the Library of Congress collects, preserves, and makes accessible the firsthand recollections of U.S. military veterans who served from World War I through more recent conflicts and peacekeeping missions, so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand what they saw, did, and felt during their service.  

The Project was founded through unanimous vote in both the House and Senate and became Public Law 106-380, October 27, 2000. Dozens of BVA members, most notably World War II veterans who shared their stories in the early 2000s, are already in the VHP archives. 

Veterans interested in participating in this meaningful project should send an email to Lea Rowe at lrowe@bva.org or visit the registration desk at the convention. BVA is honored to help its members share their stories and make history.