Ritchie Calls For Local Heroes to Share Stories Through "Veterans Voices" Programs

Brian Dwyer

June 6, 2019

As our nation pauses today to remember the 75th anniversary of D-Day—the first day of the Invasion of Normandy during World War II—State Senator Patty Ritchie is encouraging veterans from across Central and Northern New York to share their most memorable stories through her “Veterans Voices” program. The program collects and preserves the first-hand recounts of veteran experiences for future generations by creating a permanent self-told record of their service.

In previous years, Senator Ritchie has collaborated with the New York State Military Museum and Veterans Research Center—located in Saratoga Springs—to submit dozens of interviews with area veterans. She is now relaunching her local program to capture the stories of as many veterans as possible, with a special focus on those who served in World War II.

“Throughout the years, I have been humbled to have the opportunity to hear the stories of so many of our local heroes through my Veterans Voices program,” said Senator Ritchie.

“As the years go by, it becomes more and more important to capture the memories of our veterans. In relaunching this program, I am hopeful those who sacrificed so much for our country are able to share their stories, making them a permanent, recorded part of our history, and preserving them for future generations to be inspired by.”

Senator Ritchie will be scheduling interviews from now through September. Once recorded, they will be submitted to the State Military Museum and Veterans Research Center for their preservation.

For more information, or to schedule an interview please contact Senator Ritchie’s Watertown office at (315) 782-3418.

CLICK HERE to view past interviews already submitted to the state archives.

CLICK HERE for more information about the New York State Military Museum and Veterans Research Center.