Additionally, these stories would become part of a permanent collection at Cooper Memorial Library. Stories of World War II and Korean War veterans contributed initially, plus a few more over the years, are in three-ring binders at the library. Until recently little else was done.
In 2000, President Clinton signed Congressional legislation to carry out on a national scale the Veterans History Project.
In 2001, Friends of Cooper Memorial Library renewed efforts to collect stories from local veterans.
In 2007, Friends of Cooper Memorial Library formed a sub-committee, the Veterans History Project committee, with the purpose of completing the mission envisioned by the library’s supporters in 1991 as well as participating in the nationwide efforts to honor veterans for their sacrifices. Since that date, the committee has been working to ensure that the Veterans History Project of south Lake County will be a quality product in the permanent collection at Cooper Memorial Library.
Stories, photographs and other materials used in these books were provided by the veterans featured or by their heirs. A few public domain images from U.S. military websites, as well as some photographs of military equipment provided by other veterans or veteran groups, may be included in some stories.
For information on contributing your story to future volumes of the Veterans History Project, or to volunteer your services to the effort, please contact the Cooper Memorial Library, Clermont, Florida.
