Call for Contributions: Morris County's Tribute to Afghanistan War Veterans

Seeking Veteran Stories for the "Moondust: Afghanistan 2001-2021" Compendium

Morristown, NJ – As the 25th anniversary of the War in Afghanistan approaches, the Morris County Office of Planning & Preservation is undertaking an ambitious project to honor local veterans who served in this significant chapter of American military history. The office is actively seeking contributions from veterans for its Veterans Compendium project, titled "Moondust: Afghanistan 2001-2021".

This initiative aims to compile and preserve the personal histories and experiences of soldiers and sailors from Morris County who participated in the War in Afghanistan. The project is a testament to the county's ongoing commitment to recognizing and valuing the sacrifices and contributions of its military personnel.

Eligibility for inclusion in the Compendium is straightforward: veterans must either be born in Morris County or have lived there for at least ten years. This extends to those who may have moved out of state, ensuring broad participation. The Compendium includes all branches of military service, and submissions of photographs alongside personal stories are highly encouraged.

Veterans interested in participating are requested to provide basic information including their name, hometown in Morris County, and branch of service. They are also invited to share additional details, such as the names of fellow service members and personal anecdotes or reflections. Once a draft biography is prepared, it will be returned to the contributor for review and approval, ensuring accuracy and personal satisfaction with the content.

The final versions of these biographies will be made publicly available online on October 7, 2026, marking the 25th anniversary of the war's onset. This collection will join the Office of Planning & Preservation's already extensive list of veteran commemorations, such as records from the American Revolution, the Civil War, both World Wars, and other major conflicts.

Veterans or their family members wishing to contribute or seeking more information are encouraged to contact Jan Williams, the Cultural and Historic Resources Specialist at the Morris County Office of Planning & Preservation. Submissions and inquiries can be directed to her email at jwilliams@co.morris.nj.us.

For those interested in exploring the rich history of Morris County's veterans, the Office of Planning & Preservation's webpage on Morris County, NJ's official website offers a wealth of information and resources. This project is not just a collection of names and dates but a living tribute to the bravery and dedication of those who have served.