Seeing 'War Through Their Eyes'

If a picture can say 1,000 words, the photos on display at UW-Oshkosh could fill a book; and they did.

"This project is called 'War Through Their Eyes.' And you can see through their eyes what they felt, what they saw, what they did," said journalism instructor Grace Lim.

It's a collection of 16 alumni and student stories, some about their time serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.  For three who have yet to go overseas, it details their reasons for wanting to serve during war time.  The project was put together by Grace Lim's journalism students. She says the reason for the project was to bring awareness back to a war she believes is fading from people's minds.

"The war coverage has diminished a little bit, especially locally, and it's hard to remember that we are still in a war when we're debating who should win American Idol," said Lim.

Through photos, words and podcasts that can be downloaded on the project's website, she says people can experience stories that would otherwise go untold.

"In fact some of them here shared stories they did not share with family or friends because no one asked," said Lim.

"I guess I never really told my stories before," said Jandrin.

Marine Sergeant Jonathan Jandrin served two tours in Iraq, joining right out of high school.

"My story really focused on my family's reaction to my decision to join," said Jandrin. "I think I wanted other families to know they're not alone in what's going on if they have children going overseas."

Stories such as Jon's not only just relate a story, but also offer a lesson, and a reminder as we approach Memorial Day.

"We all need to be thankful for these people who are serving our country and protecting our freedoms," said Lim.

The exhibit will be on display through next week at UW-Oshkosh's Reeve Memorial Union.