Imprints of Honor (formerly Veterans Heritage Project)

My experience with "IMPRINTS of HONOR" is the most important organization I have been recently introduced to, that has allowed me to share my passion for our military. The opportunity to support the veterans in this way as a volunteer is incredible. The stories, that are told to this younger generation by these veterans has an impact that paints a picture on what it takes to keep our country secure and free.
The information that is gathered by the students involved, truly provides a pathway for both the veteran and the student to understand what it has taken for this country to be successful. This venue provides healing for all who were involved at any one time in the military.

As a six year Ohio and Pennsylvania U.S. Army and National Guard Reservist, I did not serve overseas and as such was not in any combat arena. But, my artillery unit was eventually reassigned as a military police unit, that dealt with the riots in the midwest cities like Cincinnati, Detroit, and Pittsburgh in the 1960's.
I feel strongly about doing as much as possible, so that the veteran's history is not lost. "Imprints of Honor", provides just such a pathway.

Imprints of Honor has been an amazing part of my life for over ten years. My first experience was as a student in the program, interviewing veterans in my community and in my family, which played a massive role in my decision to pursue writing and teaching after high school. Since then, Imprints remains my favorite thing to share about my high school experience. It's been incredible to watch the growth of the organization, starting at our one high school, to now being spread across the state of Arizona, and across the country. As an educator and professional writer today, it is beyond gratifying to see the ways this program has and will continue to positively impacted students, veterans, communities, and future leaders.

I have been a chapter sponsor for over a decade and can confidently say that this is most important work that I do! Preserving the stories of veterans is just the beginning. The metamorphosis that students undergo is nothing short of miraculous and their connections with their veteran is life long. Students learn how to actively listen, write about the experiences, and celebrate their veteran. They graduate with confidence, poise, and a maturity that we cannot teach them in the classroom. The pride that they, their family, the veteran, and their families feel when they see the book, "Since You Asked", is immeasurable. Working with the main office is a pleasure; Michelle, Blanka, Hannah, and Sarah are incredibly hard-working and professional. I look forward to many years to come with Imprints.

VETERANS HERITAGE PROJECT, NOW IMPRINTS OF HONOR, IS A TREASURE SHARED BETWEEN US VETERANS AND STUDENTS WHO WANT TO LEARN ABOUT THEIR HERITAGE. MANY THOUSANDS OF MEN AND WOMEN SACRIFICED A GREAT DEAL FOR ALL OF US TO LIVE IN THE GREATEST COUNTRY ON EARTH. I AM PROUD TO BE IN THOSE RANKS, THOUGH MY CONTRIBUTION WAS LITTLE. AS A YOUTH, i SERVED WITH HEROES. I WANT MY GRANDCHILDREN TO KNOW ABOUT THESE BRAVE CITIZENS. THERE IS NO BETTER WAY TO TEACH YOUNG PEOPLE THAN TO HAVE THEM INTERVIEW THESE HEROES AND THEN INTERNALIZE WHAT THEY HEAR AND SHARE IT. THIS PROGRAM MAKES THAT EXCITING POSSIBILITY POSSIBLE. THIS IS A GREAT PROGRAM!

VHP/Imprints of Honor is an incredible organization that is truly life changing for both students and veterans alike. As an 8-year student member of the organization, I have had the ability to grow and help others grow academically, emotionally, and as global citizens. I would not trade this experience for the world!

I was a member of the board of the organization for 6 years and saw its impact in so many ways. I initially engaged due to the leadership, communication skills, and education it was providing to the students. I quickly saw the relationships that were built between the students and the veterans they interviewed…they are life long in many cases! Seeing our students go on to higher education and in many instances, choose to serve themselves because of what they have learned from Imprints of Honor and the veterans is truly heartwarming. I have met so many veterans, each with their own story to share, and I will never become tired of listening to them. Thank you for the amazing work you all do at Imprints of Honor!

I am grateful to have been able to support a truly significant organization like Imprints of Honor. I teach Physics and Astrophysics so I receive no direct benefit for my teaching. However, I am a school advisor because I believe in their mission for myself and my students--connecting students with veterans. I have seen students develop confidence and better communication skills. Many of them become published authors, which is incredibly rare for high school students. Some of my students become inspired to join one of the military branches and they have often received help from the veterans we interview. There is often a strong bond between the students and "their" (emphasis intended) veteran whom they interviewed that extends into college. With so many negative stereotypes about today's youth, it is refreshing for our veterans to see wonderful, patriotic, and humble adolescents. I have formed bonds with my veterans that have remained strong for many years.
I truly believe my support of students in Imprints of Honor is worthwhile for both my students and me. My favorite activities during the year are the chances to shake hands and thank our veterans. We do this at the Veterans Day Parade, Memorial Day ceremonies, at the large book reception ceremonies, and after each interview. Veterans have given so much for us; this is the least we can do in return. I appreciate Imprints for such opportunities!

I've been involved with VHP for a short time in a few different roles, but it has had a huge impact on my life and my family and I will always be grateful for coming across this amazing organization. I actually interviewed to work for them and got the job, before I found out that my Grandfather knew the founder. While working for them, I was able to interview my Grandfather, a World War II and Korean War veteran that served in every branch of the military! His story was published in a Since You Asked book and he was able to attend the book signing reception. He had the best time and really loved having that experience. This will always be a fond memory for me and my family, as we lost my Grandfather this year at the age of 99. I really enjoyed working for VHP, but my situation changed and I left after I had a baby. I am still involved and volunteer with them so I can continue to support their mission!

As a VHP alumna, I have been honored and humbled to be part of this program that builds bridges between civilian and military communities. I've learned so much from our veterans and their families, both those I've had the pleasure of knowing personally and those whose stories I get to hear or read about later on. High school isn't a perfect institution, but I am so glad to have been part of VHP during those years of my education; had I not been, I believe life would've turned out quite different! Ten years ago, I joined VHP as an after-school program because I spotted a display board with a black and white photograph of a World War II ship out at sea, presented during my school's extracurricular activities fair. Today, I continue to support the program's mission of Connecting Students with Veterans--what we do has a profound impact on not only the students that are engaged but also on our veterans. This program provides an enriching, rewarding experience for our younger generations and a safe, productive space for our veterans to share their stories with us and their loved ones.

Veterans Heritage Project is the greatest non-profit for which I have volunteered. Their mission is unique among non-profits serving veterans: “connecting students with veterans.” As a student volunteer with VHP, I have had the privilege of connecting with veterans across generations. The stories I have listened to and recorded will stay with me for the rest of my life. Talking with veterans about their service gave me a new appreciation for those who serve and sacrifice for our Nation. In a time when fewer young people know someone who served in the military, VHP bridges the gap and provides students an insight into the lives of service members. My experiences with VHP have shaped me into who I am today and taught me invaluable life skills, such as leadership, public speaking, and dependability. The connections with my veterans inspired me to pursue a military career. I am eternally grateful to VHP for introducing me to fantastic mentors and friends and expanding my understanding of our veterans. Thank you, VHP, for all you do to preserve the legacies of veterans and American history!

VHP is an outstanding organization that documents history in an incredibly unique way. The product of the process in VHP is a historical recording of events; but, through the process, a special relationship is created between a veteran and a student which allows for the veteran to share their legacy and the student to learn history from a firsthand perspective. As a VHP alum, I’m proud to vouch for the positive impacts of the program and would highly recommend it to any student.

This program does so much to raise awareness of and cultivate gratitude for our veterans and those who give the ultimate sacrifice for public good. It is also a great way for students to connect to living history. It is such a positive experience for everyone involved. I'm so grateful that this is available to our community and students.

Veterans Heritage Project is a critical resource for veterans and students alike. From a veteran perspective in particular, it is important to know there is a resource in place to collect stories that might otherwise never be told publicly. VHP is that critical backstop, ensuring these stories are not lost forever. The VHP staff care about each story, each veteran, and happily help facilitate this important historical preservation.

I am a US Navy veteran who served as a Supply Officer on an underway refueling ship for two cruises with the US 7th Fleet in Vietnam. I was interviewed by a very competent and kind high school student and my story was put into the Veterans Heritage Project book. The experience caused me to go back and remember my past service and renewed my pride in our country and the honor I had to serve it. I also remembered the great sailors who served with me. Bottom line: it was a great experience.

Having served with so many veterans during the Vietnam war in 1968 & 1969, I have personally witnessed the service and sacrifice our veterans have given to our nation. So many never came home. And having been wounded in combat, I know and have personally witnessed the trauma that so many veterans must live with throughout their entire life. For them, and for our nations well-being, we must never forget to honor their service.

However, that has not always been the case. I remember coming home to a nation that was not respectful and understanding to those that gave so much. Many were spat upon and ridiculed for their service. Because of this, we Vietnam veterans closed ranks and only spoke to one another about our service and of the service of those who were never able to come home. It was a shameful time in America’s history.

However, things have changed and the Veterans Heritage Project embodies that change. They honor the service of our veterans by having high school students personally meet with a veteran and record their history of service that is memorialized at the Library of Congress, and in a book where other veterans share their stories of service.

However, and perhaps more importantly, this instills with these high school students a sense of who we are as a nation and the service and sacrifice of so many to make this the great nation that we are. It is instills a sense of duty to the future leaders of our country. For me personally, this is the greatest legacy that we veterans can give towards the future of our nation.

I know that during these difficult times it is hard to have maintain hope for the future. But I have seen something in our youth that assures me that the future of America is in good hands. Those who have participated with the Veterans Heritage Project will never forget the service of our veterans and as they walk into adulthood, they will have the maturity and understanding of what it takes in their future role as leaders.

It is my honor to participate in the veterans heritage project and to support it as strongly as I can.

Rick Romley,
USMC, 1968 & 1969
Vietnam.

I was in the Louisiana National Guard and never considered myself a veteran - and I never qualified for any benefits. After several years of being asked to tell my story, I was connected with a bright student who recorded my experience and there was a special book signing for all of us who did so. My husband and daughter were participants and I appreciated the special attention for Vietnam era vets.

In this day and age, how many of our students get the opportunity to meet and have our veterans share their stories? This is an organization that encourages students and veterans to come together for a worthwhile sharing of life long experiences.

My name is Kayleigh Rice and I am a student member of VHP. This program changed my life in so many ways. First of all, being able to hear about a veterans service in the military, and then being able to honor that story by putting it in writing was an incredible thing. VHP allowed veterans to feel a deserved pride in their service, no matter their role, and in my opinion, this is the most important achievement of the program. Moreover, for me personally, VHP offered me so many opportunities as a student. It elevated my writing and public speaking skills, it gave me a new appreciation for the military and our veterans, and it also offered me a chance at various VHP scholarships. Specifically the Lambert Family Scholarship allowed me to go to a university, that of which I would not have been able to attend without this aid. In essence, I owe all of my success to VHP. Overall, the Veterans Heritage Project is life changing for everyone involved, whether it is a veteran, student, advisor, or volunteer.

VHP is an amazing organization that brings together students and Veterans and with this simple act leaders are born, civic responsibility is cultivated, history is codified and Veterans are honored for their service. I am proud to support VHP.

As the student members of the Veterans Heritage Project make their way through the uncertain world that lies before them, they take with them a more informed perspective of the true cost of freedom. They take with them a first-hand confirmation of the sacrifices made by those who have and by those who do answer the call of duty. Directly through their personal interviews with veterans, and indirectly through their individual contributions to the publication of this book, the students of VHP have taken their first steps toward that “tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime”.

I have come to the realization that the overarching value of this student-veteran engagement transcends the preservation of the service stories of courageous men and women honored in the books. Indeed, the Veteran’s Heritage Project allows those courageous men and women to continue their “dedication of a lifetime” as they pass along their patriotic inspiration to a new generation. I have seen the enlightened young faces bursting with pride as they contemplate their dedication to the completion of this project. I have heard them discuss their solemn new-found respect for entire generations of veterans.
My memories of VHP are imprinted forever in my mind. With each interview a connection and an understanding occurred. The VHP students I have had the privilege of working with have become such amazing citizens that contribute so much to their communities. I could not be more proud of their continued dedication of a lifetime.

The Veterans Heritage Project is a wonderful nonprofit initiative. It provides an opportunity for veterans to tell their individual stories of their service in a way that involves new generations of students in a direct and inspirational way. The concept of then taking those varied stories and professionally publishing them in book form was, and continues to be, a very effective and transformative way of connecting the past with the future, and for practically engaging students in history, civics, and service to one's country. For the veterans who participate, it offers the conduit to tell their stories and experiences, sometimes for the very first time, and, in the process, it gives them the opportunity to "pass the torch" to the next generation — developing character, historical understanding, and civic responsibility in the students in the process. Everyone involved benefits.

I am a US Army veteran. The Veterans Heritage Project motto is: Building Character. Honoring Service. I would add “connecting generations.” VHP connects high school students with military veterans. In August 2022, I attended the VHP Reception and Book Signing – a MOST meaningful event for me. Conversing with other vets. Each grateful for the opportunity to tell their story and (unsaid) to be recognized for their service. Watching younger (and older) folks ask for autographs from the vets, and listen to their stories of service. Witnessing first hand the vital connection - - between civilians and military, and especially the link bringing the generations together. I was honored to have a front seat to an event about history that makes history. I was so impressed by this organization that earlier this year I was elected to the board.

I was approached by VHP in 2017 to contribute my story to the 2017 edition of Since You Asked. I was totally amazed with the program and its mission. After retiring from the USMC, I was looking for ways to continue to serve and joined VHP as a Board Member three years ago. The mission of connecting our students with our Veterans is on display everyday. I could not be prouder of the VHP, its volunteers and teachers who support the mission.

I have experienced VHP as a parent of a participating student, relative of a veteran interviewed, volunteer, and now board member. I can truly say from experience that VHP has a real world impact on everyone it touches. The impact on the students and veterans really shines. Students make a real connection with their veterans - often lasting for years after the interview. Veterans get not only the often cathartic experience of telling their story and knowing that it will be preserved for all time, but the appreciation and admiration from the general public during the annual book signing event. I am proud to to be involved with VHP in any way that helps to continue to promote the mission of Connecting Students with Veterans.

I have been teaching for 30 years, and I believe this program is the best thing I have done in my teaching career. I have been an advisor with VHP since about 2010, and have seen its impact grow and the outcomes improve. This project is a Win-Win-Win: It is good for students , veterans, and the third win is that it is great for teachers as well. Some students have started with me in the 8th grade and then continued the program in high school rounding out a five year stint. We have even had a couple carry on their involvement into college. The benefits are many, and the reputation VHP is garnering is impressive and well- deserved. Among the many recognitions, is the Citizen Honors Award, presented by Congressional Medal of Honor Recipients. The only thing more impressive than that are the grateful hearts of hundreds of veterans and generation of young people learning the importance of something larger than themselves. The students are moved and realize the importance of project learning in a meaningful way. Attending a book signing at the end of the yearly project is a great way to capture VHP's heart. VHP started with a simple four word mission: Connecting Students With Veterans. A simple, but ever so powerful mission. Catch the magic of this great organization!

As a US Marine Corps Veteran, the Veterans Heritage Project (VHP) provides the best healing and nurturing effort i have ever encountered. i served in combat in Viet Nam and have personally felt and witnessed the acknowledgement for the service of my generation, those that preceded mine, and those who have followed. The VHP unites young and old across generations and provides students the experience of learning "Living History" with our Veterans. Watching the sparkle restored in the eyes of many Veterans as the Students engage with them provides value without equal. As i recall watching the myriad of encounters between our Students and Veterans, I always find that my eyes well up with moisture, and i shed "happy tears". While the word "unique" has been overused, the intent and spirit of its true significance was created to describe our VHP. Under the enlightened guidance of our resourceful Executive Director, Michelle DiMuro, our VHP continuously strives to improve, revitalize its value to our community, and produce experiences and relationships that cannot be created through any other efforts. Anywhere. From the sparkling eyes of one US Marine, i am "Semper Fidelis" (Always Faithful). John A Repaty

After returning from my tour in Afghanistan in 2007 and being recommended by a close friend to tell my story of service, I was overwhelmed by the comfort and support that I received after sharing my experiences. That inspired me for several years of volunteering to speak at local schools and now proud being a member of the Board of Directors for almost 5 years. I am continuously humbled to see the growth of this organization, the many Veterans impacted, and the Students who devote their time and efforts to assist Veterans and develop as young adults and some currently and soon to be serving in our military! VHP continues to set the example and lead the way in support for our Veterans and Students! Congratulations!

I have served as a volunteer for VHP for nine years. For two of those years I've had the privilege of serving as Board President and have spent additional years as an officer. I have been so impressed with the Advisors, Students and VHP staff as they as they interact with veterans in capturing their stories.
For some veterans, the experience is cathartic as they share their story of sacrifice and service with a student interviewer. Often, for the first time ,families learn about the experiences of their family member and as a result veterans are honored.
Student listening and writing skills are greatly improved through the interviewing, editing and publishing process. Dedicated Chapter Advisors are involved with the students during the interviewing, editing and publishing of a special book each year which is given to veterans who have been interviewed and made available to their families. In school assemblies, students hear first-hand accounts from veterans. Also, chapters participate in community events, parades and holiday celebrations honoring veterans.
Character, integrity, leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking skills are all developed through VHP's unique program. My hope is that this program will expand throughout Arizona and eventually to other states.

VHP is truly incredible! The positive impact on students and veterans is phenomenal but their reach stretches on to the advisors, supporters and families of those impacted. VHP is honoring the past through documenting critical stories and supporting the future with generous scholarships to deserving students.

What an incredible Project, hats off to all of the VHP staff and students who keep this program rolling along.

I am a veteran. The Veteran’s Heritage Project is a story rooted in patriotism, enthusiasm, our youth, and education and is one that thankfully thrives more strongly than ever before. VHP founders and current leaders are dedicated and enthusiastic, current students are as devoted and engaged today just as their predecessors were. It makes my heart warm each time I meet the new students or catch up with the staff and volunteers.

I'm not new to the game either. I became acquainted with the VHP about 18 years ago when we learned that a small classroom of students at Cactus Shadows HS had decided that their next 'project' would be to learn about veterans’ experiences. Their teacher, Mrs. Barbara Hatch challenged them further, much further than they could ever have imagined, and the journey has been amazingly wonderful.

In 2012 the VHP was recognized by the Arizona Veteran’s Hall of Fame Society when we selected Mrs. Hatch as the recipient of our highest award, the Copper Sword Award, and as such the VHP, which to this day continues to significantly benefit the well-being of our military and our veterans, their families and survivors, our communities, and our neighbors. We are equally pleased that the VHP has been recognized at the highest national levels by prominent civic and senior military leaders, the Library of Congress, and many other organizations. Each recognition, and every award has been well earned and deserved.

Like myself, the veterans I know are honored to support, and recognize the VHP staff, volunteers, students, and teachers. We know that the students are our future, motivated, patriotic, educated and community focused young men and women who went a step beyond the standard HS curriculum to engage with veterans, to bond with them, to learn from them. I have seen these students go on to Colleges and Universities, to Military Academies and branches of our Military Services, these are the ones who show promise, and who will deliver when called upon.

Thank you VHP, thank you for all of us, every one associated with VHP is a true winner.

Go Army!

Chuck S

Amazing group with an amazing cause. What other organization brings two diffrent demographics together and helps build a mutual respect for each.

As a chapter advisor starting my sixth year with Veterans Heritage Project, I cannot say enough about the value of this program. Students get to interact with the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country, hear their stories and build relationships with them. Students also develop leadership tools, learn about commitment and complete volunteer service for veteran groups. Most importantly, it allows our veterans to have a voice to share stories many of them have never shared before and to have those stories preserved. As I tell my students every year- Every veteran has a story, every veteran's story is important and every veteran's story deserves and needs to be told. As for me- it feeds my soul.

I am always moved to tears when I attend one of Veterans Heritage Project's community events - What a wonderful organization!
This is much more than an after-class program. Thanks to this project, these student/teacher/veteran interactions create lifelong friendships and mutual support that are incredible for our community.
the team of staff, volunteers, and Board members is dedicated, engaged, and remarkable.
I can only recommend 200%

Great organization. First, veterans get recognized for their service and sacrifice. Next, students learn valuable information about the importance of service and pride in our nation. Finally, students also get a wonderful chance to practice communication skills and writing skills as they craft stories to honor veterans and their service.