The Pentagon needs WWII veterans to share their stories

The Department of Defense (DoD) is leading a National effort to commemorate the 75th anniversary of World War II. As part of this commemoration, we are creating a series of thirty (30) one-minute videos featuring World War II veterans, which will be broadcast on social media and traditional media outlets in August and September 2020. We would greatly appreciate any assistance you can provide in introducing us to WWII veterans among your membership who may be interested in participating. The series will cover the war from Pearl Harbor to VJ Day. Each video will feature a veteran from World War II, who was a part of the topic at hand (the Battle of Midway, D-Day, and so forth). They will be hosted by a celebrity from one of six areas of interest including: politics, military, film & TV, sports, journalism, and music. Filmed at iconic spots across our country ranging from the U.S.S. Midway to the Pentagon, the series will show the beauty of America and showcase the symbols of our nation and military to evoke gratitude and patriotism. The framework of each of these short, powerful videos is the same. The celebrity host will introduce himself or herself and give a succinct summary of an aspect of World War II, be it a battle, project, or leader. The host will then segue to a member of the Greatest Generation who was present for the event and the viewers will see vintage images of the veteran from the era. When the host says, "Veteran Smith was there 75 years ago, fighting for freedom. And they're here with me today." the camera will pan back to reveal the WWII veteran is present. On behalf of the DoD and the nation, the host will thank the veteran. The veteran will then have the last word, closing the video with their own thoughts about why they served and what advice they want to pass on to the American people. If you have any WWII veteran members at your post or know of WWII veterans who might be interested in participating, we would greatly appreciate your providing us a little background information about them (such as their life before, during, and after their service). Please email all information to Ms. Lauren Weber at lauren.f.weber.civ@mail.mil More information about the World War II 75th Anniversary Commemoration may be found at: https://www.defense.gov/Explore/Spotlight/WWII/ - David L. Nokes, Office of the Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs/Community Engagement