Veterans History Project – Resource Guide of World War II

Prepared by John Boylan

MAL 776 Research on the Web

Fresno Pacific University, Fresno, CA.

Purpose

This guide was compiled for individuals who are participating in the Veterans History Project being conducted by The Library of Congress. Each day we lose approximately 1,500 veterans and with them the wisdom and experience they have gained in serving our country. A good majority are those who served in World War II. The basic intent of the history project is to interview and record veteran’s stories and experiences for future generations before they are lost forever.

The sampling of resources you will find in this guide are Internet sites, which you may find useful in gaining a better understanding of World War II. This information will prepare you to better understand the veterans who participated in this world conflict, which further defined them as part of “the greatest generation.”

Contents

 

The Veterans History Project

The main library site.

 

Back to top

History of World War II

A 16-page e-text site that makes for a good introduction or refresher on World War II history.

This site contains Franklin D. Roosevelt’s address to Congress on December 8, 1941 in regards to the attack on Pearl Harbor on the previous day. This site also contains more information on how and why the war started.

Frequently asked questions about the war.

Women played and important role in the war. This site also includes information on other military conflicts that women have served.

This is an excellent site with stories and information on a group of veterans, who are long overdue recognition for their efforts in supplying our troops overseas.

This is a complete “e-book” about the war. An excellent chronicle of events.

A collection of sea battles, the fleets and ships. Personal stories of sailors. Also includes information on the U.S. Marines.

 

Back to top

Recommended Reading

The story of E Company, 506th Regiment, 101st Airborne from Normandy to Hitler's Eagle's Nest

The U.S. Army from the Normandy Beaches to the Bulge to the Surrender of Germany, June 7, 1944-May 7, 1945

A Memoir of World War II

A detailed account of the men who hit the beaches in Operation Overlord.

Stories of hope and courage from the battlefields.

This book is about the real story behind the infamous picture of the Marines raising the US Flag on Mt. Suribachi on Iwo Jima. (This is a book every American needs to read!)

The story of the infamous B-17F Flying Fortress, “Memphis Belle“, and the first pilot of the 8th Air Force to fly 25 successful missions over Europe.

A chronicle of the experiences of Lt. George McGovern.

An assortment of books and stories from the war (various authors)

 

Back to top

The Battle of Normandy – Operation Overlord – D-Day

This is an on-line “e-book” detailing the greatest invasion force ever assembled.

An excellent interactive site. The museum is located in New Orleans.

 

Back to top

Information and Stories

Marcus Kolb's World War II experiences as a B-17 pilot and POW. Plus stores about six other pilots, navigators, bombardiers and crew

A website created by the son of a World War II veteran. (A very touching tribute.)

A website created by the son of a 5th Air Force WW II Veteran.

This is a “virtual museum.” Interactive site with sound.

This site covers both European and Pacific theatres of war.

I actually had lunch in Reedley, CA., with a veteran from this Division. It was quite an honor!

The story of the “life” of a B-17E Flying Fortress

This site has the types of aircraft flown in the war.

Combat plane flown in the war.

Stories about the men who served in armored divisions.

 

Back to top

Other Projects Similar to the Veterans History Project

This is a very nice site created by Willmar Junior High in Willmar, MN. (Great project!)

 

Back to top

 

Last revised: 12/15/02