Hanover’s ‘Untold Stories’ to feature local Vietnam War veterans, families sharing personal stories

HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Hanover County residents will soon have the chance to listen to personal stories from local Vietnam War veterans and their families at the 11th "Untold Stories" event.

The event will return for its 11th year at 4 p.m. in the Patrick Henry High School auditorium on Sunday, March 1, with a new theme: "Viet Nam War Era Military Veterans," according to a Feb. 24 press release from Hanover County.

This year's program will focus on the personal experiences of veterans from Hanover County and the town of Ashland, along with their families. According to a release, panelists will include Brenda Bryant, John Gordon, Ron Hopkins, Aubrey Hopson Jr. and Anne Payne.

Officials said this year will include five individuals instead of the traditional six panelists.

Hodges, who shared that the program has previously covered schools, social life, dating and jobs, said this year's Vietnam-themed program gives residents a chance to hear "a variety of perspectives."

“History is more than a couple of paragraphs in a textbook,” said Betsy Hodges of the Ashland Museum and a member of the Untold Stories planning committee. “To hear the individuals share their experiences in their own words brings an added dimension.”

"Untold Stories" is organized by a 14-member planning committee comprised of community members, including former panelists and longtime volunteers. The committee meets each fall to decide on a theme, data and any possible participants.

“It requires some courage to tell your story in a public setting,” Hodges said. “We begin with a list of people we believe would be willing to participate, but recently, we’ve also had individuals reach out to express interest.”

After the stories are shared, Daniel Nelson of the Vets on Track Foundation will offer closing remarks and recognize veterans and their families in attendance ahead of a concluding performance by the Community Gospel Chorus.