Greg Peterson, Robert H. Jackson Center Board Member, George Marchini and Walter Gaczewski, Elks Lodge #263 representatives
Elks Lodge #263 of Jamestown, NY has presented the Robert H. Jackson Center with a generous financial contribution for its recently launched “Defenders of Freedom” project. “Defenders of Freedom” is an oral history initiative that seeks to capture on video and share the first hand experiences of WWII veterans in the Western NY and Northwestern PA areas. Hosted and filmed at the Center in Jamestown NY, the project is a collaborative effort between the Jackson Center, the United Veterans Council, Chautauqua County Office of Veterans Services and local WWII authors and historians, Rolly Kidder and Phil Zimmer.
Underway in many parts of the United States oral history initiatives seek to capture and share the stories of WWII generation veterans. Stories gathered through the “Defenders of Freedom” project are the voices of area veterans who helped shape the history of the world.
The Elks’ donation will go towards the purchase of equipment and supplies necessary to preserve the remarkable stories of our local WWII Veterans. Once properly edited the collection of video files will then be made available to researchers and the general public for a wide variety of projects and purposes, including academic papers and scholarship, documentaries, genealogy research and personal interest. The “Defenders of Freedom” project will also provide the opportunity for students to supplement their textbook learning with the preserved voices of our area WWII veterans.
Elks Lodges nationwide are committed to the ideals of charity and patriotism. Public service is an integral part of the Elks’ mission. In keeping with this tradition, Elks create and participate in many programs to better their communities as a demonstration of their motto, “Elks Care – Elks Share!” Elks invest in their communities by undertaking projects that address unmet needs, and by honoring the service and sacrifice of our veterans.
As the “Defenders of Freedom” project joins with similar initiatives nationwide, this project targets a valuable resource that is available in our own backyard. If you have an interest in being part of this process please contact Phil Zimmer at 716-665-4034. For more information on how you can contribute financially to the success of this project, please contact the Jackson Center at 716-483-6646.
