Ypsilanti District Library Offers World War II Program

Posted: Apr 24, 2012 at 3:38 PM [Apr 24, 2012]

(YPSILANTI, MI) – The Ypsilanti District Library is proud to present Larry Martin's World War II - In Their Own Words on Saturday, April 28 from 11 am to 1 pm at YDL-Whittaker, 5577 Whittaker Road. This program is based on one man's firm dedication to bringing the stories of WWII to as many people as possible. The goal is to share with the world exactly what the heroes who fought for our freedom during the Second World War did, and to pay them tribute while educating everyone on the facts and the significance of this tragic and important event in our nation's history.

 

Larry's interest in WWII history and his passion for both gathering and sharing the stories of the men and women of the war has sparked the creation of the In Their Own Words project. This project is intended to educate further generations on this fascinating and unique period in history as well as to foster an appreciation for the hardships endured by all war veterans so that we may all live in a free country.

 

This program will feature a video of WW II Navy veteran named Collin McKenzie. Collin was stationed aboard the USS Pennsylvania.  She was a battleship at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii on December 7, 1941 when the Japanese attacked which launched America into WW II.  When the USS Arizona was bombed and sunk with 1,200 sailors aboard who died during the attack, he was only several hundred yards away. His ship was hit by a five hundred pound bomb, which burned Collin very badly.  During the invasion of Normandy on D-Day June 6, 1944, Collin was aboard a destroyer.

 

Over the past decade, Larry Martin has conducted over 75 video interviews of WWII veterans and has hosted over 50 programs at public libraries and other facilities across the country.  Larry Martin will share WW II memorabilia including weapons, photos, and newspapers during his presentation at YDL-Whittaker.

             

The Ypsilanti District Library’s mission is to enrich life, stimulate intellectual curiosity, foster literacy, and encourage an informed citizenry. For more information about the Larry Martin’s In Their Own Words program or other events at YDL, visit www.ypsilibrary.org or call 482-4110 ext. 1303.