Priceless history welcome

The interviews of Messrs. Allen, Boykin, and Allen [December 8 cover story: "For God and country, Sir!"] join scores of other oral histories on file here at the Historical Society.

Theirs are particularly valuable because many veterans of color are, quite understandably, hesitant to give interviews. The discrimination they endured then continues to make them feel that their contributions are not valued today.

But how grateful and proud their grandchildren and great-grandchildren will be that veterans like Allen, Boykin, and Allen took the time to tell Bea Mook their stories!

One clarification: the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society has been since 2002 an archival partner in the Veterans History Project of the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.

We train volunteer interviewers, help identify veterans (combat and support troops, but also military family members, workers in war-related industries, Red Cross nurses, even conscientious objectors who did alternative service).

We help set up interviews and lend tape recorders and microphones. Then the Historical Society permanently houses all materials produced or collected during the interviews, including tapes, transcriptions, correspondence, photographs, videos and home movies, journals and diaries.

Thanks to the Hook for bringing it to the community's attention.

Douglas Day, Executive Director
Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society