Storytelling is critical for communication, learning, and connecting with each other. It allows us to see and hold different perspectives and share our lived experiences with others. It’s in our DNA and underpins our culture.
But some stories are easier to tell than others, especially for those who served in the military. As a veteran, I know we often refrain from telling our stories because we want to remain humble, or we think the stories may be too painful to tell. I had some of these same reservations when I first heard about Operation: Service Story.
Operation: Service Story is a project to formally collect and archive oral histories from veterans and service members across United Way of Northeastern Minnesota’s service area to encourage healing, build community, and preserve our history.
My grandfather was a WWII U.S. Army vet. He never talked about his service, at least not to me, and I know very little about his service story. I didn’t want to leave my family and friends with the same empty wondering, so I chose to participate in Operation: Service Story earlier this year.
I was a bit reluctant to meet the interviewer and share my lived experience with a stranger. We have all felt that before - a little uneasiness before we raised our right hand, got on a bus with 100 strangers, or jumped out of that perfectly good airplane.
The experience I had through Operation: Service Story was very rewarding. I was able to connect with a Vietnam veteran and tell my story. It was freeing, and I felt a renewed sense of camaraderie with my new friend.
I encourage you all to tell your story. You have made tremendous sacrifices to serve your country, seen all parts of the world, and done things many of us only dream of. Like President Reagan once commented: “Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference, but the Marines don’t have that problem.”
You made a difference. You have a story. Here’s my plea to tell it for your loved ones - and tell it for yourself.
Chad Buus is the Area Manager – Mine Maintenance for U. S. Steel Minnesota Ore Operations and has served on UWNEMN’s Board of Directors for six years.