Veteran History Program

Congresswoman Debbie Lesko is on a mission to preserve the stories of Arizona’s Veterans & is proud to participate in the Veterans History Project!

These amazing stories are disappearing as those who served in America’s wars pass on.  In an effort to save these treasures, the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project (VHP) was designed by Congress to record, preserve, and make accessible the first-hand accounts of American war veterans from all our past wars. These will be made available to future generations so they may hear directly from veterans about the realities of their wars.

Our veterans have served this nation bravely and heroically. We owe these men and women an enormous debt of gratitude and respect. In honor of our veteran's service, my office will be continually recording histories from veterans in our community throughout the year in my Surprise District Office.

Who can participate?

Veterans who served in the United States military during wartime, in any capacity, from World War II through the present and are no longer serving, are eligible to participate, regardless of branch or rank. Civilians who served in support of a United States war effort in a professional capacity also are welcome to participate.

Why should you participate?

As a primary source, researchers, scholars and educators rely upon VHP collections. These oral histories, photographs, manuscripts and other original materials are a rich supplement to historical texts and a valued cultural resource. Veterans’ family members treasure the memories that are permanently preserved at the Library of Congress for future generations.

How can I participate?

There are two ways to participate.  The first is to sit down with one of our volunteers and have a conversation about your military service.  This will be a videotaped interview and must be a minimum of 30 minutes.  The other way is to submit a collection of original photographs or documents that tell your story.  We are able to use photographs or documents from a deceased veteran so that their perspectives of their military service is not lost.  

For more information on the Project and an explanation of the oral interview and materials gathering process, go to:

Veterans History Project

Download VHP Brochure              

Download the Field Kit

Please contact my office for additional information using the form below. You may also submit your completed interview or collection to my District Office, as I will be honored to forward it to the Library of Congress.

Information Request - Veteran History Project

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Your Information
How would you like to participate in the Veterans History Project?
Interview Information
Human Validation