Uncover the Hidden Tales of WWII at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force’s Author Talk with Howard Mansfield

Discover the Untold Stories of WWII at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

On a pleasant evening in Savannah, history enthusiasts and curious minds are in for a treat. The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is hosting a remarkable event as part of its monthly Author Talk series. This time around, the spotlight is on Howard Mansfield, an accomplished author eager to share his insights from his latest book, I Will Tell No War Stories: What Our Fathers Left Unsaid about World War II.

What to Expect

Mark your calendars for September 12th at 6:30 PM, because this is an evening you won’t want to miss. The gathering will take place at the Skidaway Island Community Church, located at 50 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, GA 31411. Not only is this enriching experience free, but attendees are also encouraged to register ahead of time to secure their spot.

Diving Into the Book

Howard Mansfield’s book dives into the complexities of war experiences that many veterans carried with them—often unspoken. Growing up in a world where stories of World War II loomed large yet remained largely unshared, Mansfield felt the silent weight of his father’s past in the Air Force. Through a touching personal journey, he explores the idea that for many, it was simply easier not to talk about the war. He recalls how his father would famously declare, “You’re not getting any war stories from me.”

But everything changed when Mansfield came across a short diary belonging to his father, detailing some of the most riveting and terrifying bombing missions he had flown. What he unearthed was not just a piece of history but a profound narrative filled with emotion and raw truth. This discovery took him on a journey to connect the dots, revealing aspects of history he thought he understood—when in reality, there was so much more beneath the surface.

The Importance of Remembering

I Will Tell No War Stories is not just a title; it encapsulates the broader struggle of remembering a complicated past that both shaped our nations and affected countless lives. Mansfield’s work prompts readers to reflect on how necessary that so-called forgetting was for the veterans. After all, how could they return to civilian life, reconcile with their loved ones, or find peace if they were to unpack every traumatic memory?

A Glimpse at the Author

For those unfamiliar with Howard Mansfield’s work, he’s no stranger to the literary scene. He’s penned 13 books, showcasing a blend of personal reflection and historical narrative. His work has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Ruth & James Ewing Arts Awards for Literary Arts in 2023, as well as honors highlighting his remarkable contributions to commentary and regional storytelling.

As an admirer of literature and history, attending this event would not only provide a unique opportunity to hear from a seasoned writer but also engage with the deeper themes surrounding war, memory, and the importance of speaking about our past.

Join the Conversation

If you’re intrigued and ready to step back in time while examining the lives of those who experienced the harrowing realities of World War II, make sure to reserve your spot. You can find the registration link on the museum’s platform.

In a world where the stories of the past shape our present, every voice counts, and every story matters. Join Howard Mansfield on September 12th to explore the narratives that went unspoken and discover the legacies we continue to carry. It sounds like an unforgettable evening, and who knows—you might walk away with a new understanding of the history that shaped our future!