Even though it has been over 70 years since the end of the World War II generations are still fascinated with the stories and artifacts that show the human side of what we learn in history books. Bridgeport High School teacher Letitia Yeater is determined to put a face on history by encouraging students to delve into artifacts collected from around the era.

 

Two years ago Yeater borrowed the traveling artifacts trunk from the National WWII museum. Known as Operation Footlocker, each trunk held some 15 actual (not reproduction) artifacts from WWII. Of course no weapons or ammunition were included but items such as a gas mask, personal effects bag, dog tags, a steel penny, a car tag, V mail, ration books and even sand from Normandy and Iwo Jima for students to examine. However the traveling trunk is not always available due to high demand.

 

“World War II has always been fascinating to me.” Said Yeater “Examining actual artifacts allowed my students to gain a richer appreciation for WWII history and history in general. In a sense they traveled back in time even for a brief moment and made a connection. I want to enable all of my classes to have that experience.”

Mrs. Yeater recently found a footlocker owned by Lt. Robert Wallace of Buckhannon at a local antique store and decided to fill that footlocker with artifacts to be kept at school. She has already received an army uniform on loan as well as some letters and magazine advertisements from the early 40s. She is now seeking additional artifacts whether donated or loaned to fill the trunk.

 

Those wishing to contact Yeater about potential donations or artifacts can reach her at lyeater@k12.wv.us. The class also welcomes speakers who can share accounts of life during the war.

 

“The idea is to engage yet another generation and get them invested in the history of our country and the world, she said. “When history comes alive for a student, they tend to pass those stories down