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There Are Many Veteran Stories Texas Style

By William Harris


The Lone Star State provided more citizens to the military during World War II than any other state, even though its population was relatively small. It also became a powerhouse of industry for the war effort and the site of many of the nation's training facilities. Today this state makes a great and effective effort to support veterans and their families. The state's middle and high schools also are enriched by programs that bring this periods of history alive through veteran stories Texas style.

At the start of the War, the huge state was a mostly rural, sparsely populated state that had been greatly impacted by the Great Depression. Its citizens responded quickly to the call for military personnel, while its climate made it ideal for training facilities. Rural people flocked to factories and urban areas boomed. Women who were almost exclusively restricted to being traditional homemakers became factory workers and gained a new sense of independence.

The state saw its permanent population grow by one third, while over a million and a half trainees were processed through the training facilities. Over 22,000 military personnel gave their lives to the fight for freedom, and many came home wounded or impaired. Famous Texans include Audie Murphy, the Army's most decorated soldier; five Medal of Honor winners of Latino descent; and General Dwight D. Eisenhower.

In 2005 the Texas Historical Commission launched the 'Texas in World War II Initiative'. This project celebrates the sites and stories of the region and its people in the second world war. The initiative seeks to inform the public and preserve this rich heritage. Policies focus on education for middle and high school students. Although the stories include memories of service overseas, the experiences of the home front are emphasized.

The metropolitan area of Bryan and College Station TX has many resources for veterans. These twin cities are located in a Texan's idea of 'easy access' to Austin (85 miles), Houston (100 miles), Fort Hood (90 miles), and the veterans hospital in Temple (70 miles). The web page for College Station has multiple references to veteran services.

Brazos County, home to College Station, is also where a support group called 'Brazos Valley Cares' holds fundraisers for organizations that serve veterans. They raise money for the Texas A&M 'Veterans Recovery & Support Center' and San Antonio's 'Family Support Center". Check out their web page to see what else they do.

All veterans have stories to tell, although some returnees are hesitant to do so. Effort like these seek to prevent the isolation that can cause ex-military with post traumatic stress problems to suffer clinical depression and even to commit suicide. Those who stayed in this country to raise beef to feed the servicemen or work in factories making war supplies also have stories to tell about how the war impacted their lives and their futures.

These stories are important to all of us. Not only should they be told, they should be preserved for future generations. Meeting the needs of veterans should be a national priority. It's good to see how this is handled in the Lone State State.




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