Reflecting on Memorial Day
by J.D. Arden, M.L.I.S. candidate, Reference Services Research Intern, Center for Jewish History

Above image: National Jewish Welfare Board Records, 1952, Passover in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Dave Starr, 1575 Federal. Pfc. Morton Gutstadt of Fitzsimons Army Hospital tried out the gefilte fish of Mrs. Starr. From the Collections of the American Jewish Historical Society.

Honoring the memory and sacrifice of our country’s veterans can be done in many ways—in a boisterous parade, in enjoying some good food and the freedom of a day off, or in reflection on the history and narrative of military service. Here at the Center for Jewish History, we have many resources that help tell these stories. Within our archive material, there are document and photographic records (like the photo seen here from the collection of the National Jewish Welfare Board). Many more records are here to explore: from OSO performances of Molly Picon to personal accounts of the work of the DP camps.

The Lillian Goldman Reading Room here at the Center provides access to a number of reference books and indexes pertaining to Jewish military service experience. One such book is Jewish General Officers: A Biographical Dictionary by J. Ben Hirsh, published in 1967.    

The Ackman & Ziff Family Genealogy Institute also provides free online and microfilm resources to trace military records. 

Begin your search into the story of United States servicemen & -women by clicking here.