Veterans History Project

World War II was the most significant event of the 20th century, transforming the world and the lives of all who survived. 

During times of combat, mutual dependence is crucial, as shown by the experiences of Joseph L. Galloway and Gerry F. Hutchinson. Their stories highlight the lasting effects of war and emphasize the duty to honor fallen soldiers

A potential donor’s offer of a WWII logbook opens Sue VerHoef’s recounting of U-505’s capture, vital to Allied code-breaking efforts. Janice Benario, a former WAVE, details her secret wartime translation work, revealing the profound impact of the Enigma machine’s seizure on the war’s outcome.

Albert Bolet recounts his harrowing experience during the Bay of Pigs Invasion, from being a political refugee to being trained for combat and captured. Decades later, settled in Atlanta, he reflects on the past with a blend of sadness and camaraderie, expressing a deep love for his native Cuba and his chosen American homeland.

Atlanta History Center records, preserves, and makes accessible the stories of men and women who did serve as well as the civilians who supported them. Their stories allow future generations to hear directly from those who lived through our nation’s conflicts to better appreciate the realities and the sacrifices of war.

E. E. McKennon pauses her welding work on a ship at the J.A. Jones Construction Company shipyard in May, 1943.

The Veterans History Project oral history collection contains video and audio interviews of those who served in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, the Global War on Terror, and civilians who supported them.

Black soldiers have served this country since the Revolutionary War and their stories are vital in creating a more complete, more accurate picture of America’s past.

Oral histories are memories that people share about the past. Ever since humans developed language, parents passed down family and community history to their children orally—with the spoken word—rather than by writing alone.

We collect, preserve, and share veterans’ accounts so future generations can hear directly and better appreciate the realities of war and the sacrifices made.

On June 6, 1944, Allied forces landed in German-occupied France in the largest amphibious invasion. More than 75 years later we listen to their stories and remember.

This Memorial Day we honor our veterans by hearing from Col. Robert Certain, who bravely fought during the Vietnam War.