TEXT INFO CLICK - EYDE TEXT
VIDEO INFO - EYDE VIDEO
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Brandon Salazar
harborsite321@gmail.com cell: 321-987-4977 office: 321 353-1776
NRA Instructor Gryphon Group Instructor U.S.M.C. Reconnaissance Marine
Date: August 23, 2024 Arizona Man Unearths Hidden WWII Stories in Eyde Family Letters
Mesa, AZ—A remarkable discovery by Arizona resident Joe Alosi has brought to light forgotten stories from World War II, hidden within a collection of letters from the Eyde family of Rockford, Illinois. These letters, found in an abandoned storage unit, reveal incredible tales of fierce sub-Arctic combat, coded messages, and the anxieties of Californians during the war.
We are excited to announce that The Washington Post has now published this extraordinary project, giving readers a unique glimpse into the wartime experiences and emotions of the Eyde family, torn apart by the global conflict.
Joe Alosi's discovery prompted a thorough investigation into the letters' origins, uncovering not only a compelling story but also a lingering mystery: Why were these letters abandoned?
The Washington Post's comprehensive project, released today, features a long-form article, supplemental materials, and a captivating podcast titled "Letters from War." Narrated by the talented team behind the project, the podcast includes modern-day veterans who take on the voices of the Eyde family members.
This extensive effort involved collaboration among over a dozen editors and designers, alongside in-depth reporting. Historians from the Rockford Public Library, the Marine Corps History Division, and the Army Center for Military History contributed their expertise, while hours were spent poring over the Eyde family's personal writings to bring their wartime experiences to life.
Additionally, documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act shed light on the challenges faced by one of the Eyde brothers in coping with the psychological scars of war after returning home.
The project also took us to Bella Pizza & Pasta in Mesa, Arizona, where Joe Alosi's wife works. Through multiple visits, Vicki Venhuizen, the closest surviving family member, joined the exploration and shared invaluable insights into the Eyde brothers' lives as she discovered the letters for the first time.
"Letters from War" is more than a historical account; it is a tribute to the resilience and sacrifices of the Eyde family and countless others who lived through World War II. It breathes life into stories that deserve recognition and remembrance, reminding us of the untold facets of this pivotal era in history.
Phone: 321-987-4977
Email: Brandon Salazar Email