Share your story

Using the Record Feature
When you record your story, just speak your thoughts one after the other. Don’t worry about punctuation spelling, grammar, or paragraphs.  When you are done, just let the Scrub button work it’s magic!

Telling Your Story
Telling a short story about an experience you had can be very powerful and will influence all those who read it. Here’s a simple approach to help you craft your story effectively:

Set the Scene
Start by briefly describing the context of your life at the time. Where were you, who were you with, how old were you, and anything else that helps your audience understand what was at stake and the challenges you faced.
Example: “I was only 19, and it was my first time away from my family. It was 1965 and I was a private in the 1st Infantry northwest of Saigon..”

Describe What You Were Feeling
If you can, provide some insights on what you were feeling. This will help your audience relate to your experience.
Example: “It was a mix of excitement and fear. I didn’t really have time to think about because so much was going on. I was surrounded by guys who were doing their best to prepare me for what was to come.”

Describe the Moment
Explain your initial reaction to what was happening, this helps the audience relate to the situation.
Example: “I had never been on a helicopter before and most of the guys who were with me didn’t look much older than I was. If they were afraid, they certainly weren’t showing it. It all seemed like a scary movie to me and I was one of the actors.”

Describe Your Thoughts and Actions
Detail what happened next and what part you had it in.
Example: “When we hit the ground the rotor-wash and the noise of the helicopter were deafening and then a moment later everything was silent. At that moment I realized my life was never going to be the same and this wasn’t some movie. It was very real. The only thing that got me through it was the that I wasn’t alone. Fortunately the patrol was uneventful.”

Highlight the Outcome
Conclude by reflecting on what you learned from the experience. How did it change you or influence you at that time, and what impact did it have in the future.
Example: “For the very first time in my life I realized that I was going to have to rely heavily on my brothers and that they were counting on me to be there for them as well. I never felt alone in Vietnam after that, those feelings did return once I came home, but that is another story.“