Aiken, South Carolina, October 25, 2025
News Summary
The University of South Carolina Aiken has initiated the Vietnam Veterans Oral History Project, aimed at preserving the stories of veterans from the Vietnam War era. Presented by student Palmer McCay, the project seeks to document the experiences of veterans through professional interviews. With a three-year duration, the initiative aims to gather insights into the veterans’ backgrounds, military training, and post-war lives. USC Aiken is also seeking donations to support the project’s budget of $45,000.
Aiken, South Carolina
The University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken) has announced the launch of a significant initiative aimed at preserving the narratives of Vietnam War veterans through the Vietnam Veterans Oral History Project. This project seeks to document the experiences of veterans who served during the Vietnam War era, which was the longest armed conflict in American military history, spanning the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s.
The project’s details were presented by student Palmer McCay during a Rotary Club of Aiken meeting on October 20, 2025, at Newberry Hall. Co-led by Dr. Sarah King, an Assistant Professor of History, and Dr. David Morris, an Associate Professor of Emerging Media, the project is designed to honor the service of veterans by collecting their stories in a professional and respectful manner.
Project Overview and Objectives
Now in its second year, the Vietnam Veterans Oral History Project has plans for a total duration of three years. In its inaugural year, the project successfully conducted interviews with 10 veterans, with a goal to interview an additional 10 veterans each subsequent year. To ensure high-quality recordings, the project utilizes professional audio and video equipment from USCA’s Media Learning and Research Lab.
The interviews aim to cover various aspects of the veterans’ experiences, including their background information, military training—both basic and advanced—direct experiences during the war in Vietnam, and their lives after returning home. These recorded stories will be accessible on a dedicated website, vvohp.org, allowing both the community and future generations to gain insights into the unique challenges faced by these veterans.
Funding and Donations
To sustain this important project, USC Aiken is seeking donations, with a total budget requirement of $45,000, broken down to $15,000 each year. This funding will support the operation and execution of the interviews, professional recording, and preservation of the veterans’ histories. Individuals interested in contributing can reach out to Kayleigh Huggins at the USCA Advancement Office at 803-641-3417.
Call for Participation
USC Aiken is actively seeking Vietnam veterans who are willing to share their stories as part of this project. Such participation is critical in ensuring a comprehensive documentation of the numerous experiences of those who served. Additional information regarding the project can be obtained by contacting the USCA at 803-648-4011 or via email at [email protected]. For inquiries about the Media Learning and Research Lab, individuals can call 803-648-0001 or reach out via email at [email protected].
Conclusion
The Vietnam Veterans Oral History Project at USC Aiken represents a vital effort to honor and document the experiences of those who served during a turbulent era in American history. Through interviews and preserved stories, the project aims to provide valuable insights into the lives of Vietnam veterans and ensure their stories are not forgotten.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Vietnam Veterans Oral History Project?
The Vietnam Veterans Oral History Project is an initiative by USC Aiken to document the experiences of veterans from the Vietnam War era.
When was the project presented?
The project was presented by student Palmer McCay at the Rotary Club of Aiken’s meeting on October 20, 2025.
How many veterans were interviewed in the first year?
In the first year of the project, 10 veterans were interviewed.
What is the total budget for the project?
USC Aiken is seeking donations to support the project, which has a total budget of $45,000 ($15,000 per year).
How can veterans participate in the project?
USC Aiken is actively seeking Vietnam veterans to participate in interviews as part of the project.
Key Features of the Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Vietnam Veterans Oral History Project |
| Duration | 3 years (currently in Year 2) |
| Budget | $45,000 total ($15,000 per year) |
| Goal | Interview 10 veterans each year |
| Interview Format | Professional audio and video recording |
| Website for Stories | vvohp.org |
| Contact for Donations | Kayleigh Huggins at 803-641-3417 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Newberry Memorial Day Ceremony and Veterans Memorial Dedication
President Biden Honors Nashville Heroes and Veterans
President Biden Awards Medals of Honor to Seven Veterans
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: USC Aiken Vietnam Veterans Oral History Project
- WRDW: Bridge Aiken County Renamed After Vietnam War Veterans
- Burlington Free Press: History and Influence of George Aiken
- Wikipedia: Vietnam War
- Google Search: Vietnam War veterans
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