Taking Steps to Capture Military Service History
Realities shared among those who served together, snippets of which might be recorded in letters and photos as well as the service uniform that evolves over the course of a career. These are pieces of a story that is unique to each person who has served, the jobs they held, the places where they were deployed. They also hold meaning and sometimes mystery to those who wait at home for their service members to return.
We know one service member’s experience is unlike any other’s career. But how do we know more and learn from our history unless we capture and share it? Consider these combos of photos, video, and audio to capture pieces of military service history:
- Photos of full-dress uniform + close ups of each sleeve + front + description of each with rank and time period;
- Mail from home + mementos carried with you + video snippet talking about the objects;
- Picture with fellow service members + service award or certificate + story of that moment in time.
Don’t Forget
Remember many people lack a military background and vocabulary. Your loved ones and peers will enjoy your stories, no matter how detailed. Most civilians simply have no context for military concepts and lingo unless you give it to them. What does that rank or that call sign mean?
Privacy & security first. Be sure to consider how/whether you mention others by name. Maybe share the Artifct with them privately first to make sure they are okay with it before you share it more broadly. And avoid all sensitive operational details – it's the big picture story that should live on! If in doubt, leave it out.
Trying to research the military service of your next of kin? The Department of Veterans Affairs can help! Click here to get started.
Questions about the militaria that you have or may have inherited? Reach out to Mid-Atlantic Military Antiques, one of our 'Allies in Stuff.'
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Have another tip or approach for military mementos?
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