Texas Seeks Veteran Stories

As the United States approaches a major milestone in its history, one state is making sure the voices of those who served are not lost to time. In a statewide call to action, Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham is urging veterans across Texas to step forward and share their personal stories through the Voices of Veterans Oral History Program.

A Call to Capture Courage and Sacrifice

Announced from Austin, the initiative invites veterans to connect with the Texas General Land Office (GLO) and contribute their experiences to a growing archive of service, sacrifice, and resilience. The program, operated in partnership with the Veterans Land Board, seeks to document firsthand accounts from veterans spanning generations and conflicts.

“As VLB Chairwoman, it is an honor to help serve our courageous Veterans by preserving and honoring their legacies through the Voices of Veterans oral history program,” said Buckingham. “This incredible program is made possible by the hard work of the VLB and GLO staff who record and archive these precious stories for future generations. As we near recording our 600th story of bravery and sacrifice, I encourage Veterans across the state to contact us and be a part of Texas history.”

Preserving History, One Story at a Time

The Voices of Veterans Oral History Program captures more than just dates and deployments—it records the lived experiences of veterans during their time in service and their journeys after returning home. These stories provide a deeply personal look at military life, offering insights that cannot be found in textbooks or official reports.

Once recorded, each interview is permanently archived within the Office of Veterans Records at the GLO. There, these modern accounts stand alongside historical documents tied to some of Texas’ most iconic figures, including Sam Houston, Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie, and William B. Travis.

This connection between past and present underscores the program’s mission: to ensure that today’s veterans are recognized as part of the same enduring legacy of service and sacrifice that has shaped Texas and the nation.

A Growing Archive of American Service

To date, the program has recorded nearly 600 veteran stories, creating a valuable resource for researchers, historians, genealogists, and members of the public. Each account adds another layer to the broader understanding of military service and its impact—not only on those who serve, but on their families, communities, and country.

These archived stories are accessible to the public, allowing Americans from all walks of life to hear directly from veterans. Whether recounting moments of courage in combat or the challenges of returning to civilian life, these narratives serve as powerful reminders of the human side of military service.

An Invitation to Be Part of History

Veterans who wish to participate are encouraged to submit their information to the program. Once received, Oral History Program coordinator James Dillon will follow up to arrange an interview and guide participants through the process.

The goal is simple but meaningful: to ensure that no story goes untold. As the archive approaches its 600th recorded interview, Texas officials are emphasizing that every veteran’s experience—no matter the role, branch, or era—has value.

In a time when preserving history is more important than ever, the Voices of Veterans Oral History Program offers a unique opportunity for those who served to leave a lasting legacy. By sharing their stories today, veterans are helping shape how future generations will understand the sacrifices made in defense of freedom.