My object is a picture of my Opa (grandpa) in his army uniform and medals he received for his service during the Vietnam war.  Since my Opa’s family migrated over from France and Germany and started out as a poor family in Glendale, Queens when he was young, they always instilled a pride in the United States.  His parents had a lot of love for America because they came here for a better life.  The history behind the object is that my Opa served in Vietnam when he was just 19 years old.  I never really knew much about his service until he died from a war related death in 2013.  He had a heart disease caused by Agent Orange.  After his death my Mima (grandma) gave our family his service pictures and medals to remind us of the sacrifice he and other veterans have given for our country and freedom.  This object also led me to learn about my Opa’s struggle with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and the effects of war on our soldiers.  This object is important to my family because it teaches and reminds me to be proud of my country and proud to be an American.

– Madison

Relationship:  Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more