Ancestry Collaborates with WWII Veterans History Project to Commemorate Heroes

Ancestry Joins Forces with the WWII Veterans History Project

On August 12, 2025, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II, Ancestry, a leader in the field of family history, has proudly announced a partnership with the WWII Veterans History Project. This collaboration aims to safeguard and disseminate the personal accounts of those who bravely served during the war. This initiative, unveiled to coincide with Veterans Day in 2025, is called "Thank You For Your Story," and includes a dedicated WWII discovery and preservation hub that showcases carefully curated archival collections, documenting the firsthand experiences of 80 WWII veterans while assisting many others in unlocking their unique stories.

This commendable initiative is designed to honor the extraordinary lives of veterans, ensuring their contributions are forever remembered and celebrated. With fewer than 1% of World War II veterans still alive, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, this effort could not have come at a more critical moment in time.

Crista Cowan, Ancestry's Corporate Genealogist, conveyed the urgency of this undertaking: "There has never been a more crucial moment to pay homage to our ancestors' narratives from the World War II era and their lived experiences. These stories highlight the valor of some of America's most remarkable icons. Every family carries a WWII narrative just waiting to be uncovered, and this initiative serves as a powerful reminder for individuals to explore their personal ties to this pivotal chapter in history. The sacrifices made by these veterans merit remembrance, and their experiences offer timeless wisdom that can shape our lives today."

The WWII Veterans History Project has spent the last decade leading a nationwide movement to document and film the personal narratives of World War II veterans. As part of this partnership, these compelling stories will be made available at no cost on Ancestry's website. This initiative ensures that the voices of these American heroes are not only remembered but shared so future generations can learn from their experiences. Benjamin Mack-Jackson, the founder of the WWII Veterans History Project, stated, "This anniversary is a potent reminder that the chance to hear directly from those who lived through this incredible time is fading quickly. By teaming up with Ancestry, we can amplify these crucial human narratives and make them more accessible than ever before, ensuring they remain etched in history."

In the forthcoming months, Ancestry, in collaboration with the WWII Veterans History Project, will begin uploading and safeguarding these impactful veteran stories. While the complete experience is set to launch in early November, those interested can currently explore military records and resources by visiting www.ancestry.com/wwii, taking steps to uncover their family histories and connections to this defining period in time.

About Ancestry

Ancestry has established itself as a global leader in genealogy and family history, enabling individuals to connect with their past to explore, preserve, and share their unique family narratives. With a colossal archive exceeding 65 billion records, more than 3 million subscribers, and a DNA network of over 27 million individuals, Ancestry provides customers with tools to rediscover their family histories, gaining deeper insights into their legacies. Over four decades, Ancestry has cultivated trusted relationships with millions who have relied on its platform to explore, document, and share the essential aspects of their family stories.

About the WWII Veterans History Project

The WWII Veterans History Project is a nonprofit organization established with the mission of enriching the future through the preservation of historical accounts, one story at a time. Committed to nurturing an appreciation for the sacrifices made by the greatest generation, the project utilizes documentary films, traveling exhibitions, and educational programs. Founded by Benjamin Mack-Jackson in 2015, the program has significantly impacted both veterans and students, documenting countless war stories and prompting educational reflections on the past and its enduring legacy.