Press Releases

Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene hosted a Veterans History Project reception at North Creek High School in Bothell to record the stories of the brave men and women who have served our country, as well as those of their loved ones.

“We have a responsibility to ensure the painful sacrifices made to protect our families and freedoms are never forgotten,” DelBene said. “I’m honored to team up with the Library of Congress to help preserve the stories of First District veterans and their families for the Veterans History Project.”

The Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project ensures the stories of our nation’s heroes are recorded and available for generations to come. DelBene and staff conducted interviews of Washington veterans and submitted their stories for preservation. Rep. DelBene interviewed Monica McNeal, a Gold Start Mother and President of the Washington state chapter of American Gold Star Mothers. Her son, Lance Corporal Eric Ward, was killed in Afghanistan. 

“Once this happened, the community embraced us,” said McNeal, in her interview. “Gold Star Moms came out and spent time with us, different veterans’ organizations. We are a close-knit community. The veteran community is close-knit, and then you add Gold Star Families, so it was phenomenal.”

She added, “People today still honor Eric. There’s many monuments in town. Still, his legacy will continue to live, and I guess as a parent, you don’t want anyone to ever forget. There’s something really true to that saying, and the community has been wonderful.”