Volunteering the key to connect with a new community.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been captivated by the history of World War II. It’s been a constant in my reading for years, and as I delve deeper into the stories of that pivotal period, I find new ways to connect with its significance. Today, that connection is even more personal, as my husband serves in the U.S. military. His role has shaped my understanding of sacrifice, service, and the importance of community. Through my volunteer work, I’m able to honor those who served in World War II while also creating a deeper bond with the communities that welcome us.
In France, where I grew up, History isn't just something we read about in books, it’s something we live. We have countless historical landmarks from camps to Oradour sur Glane or memorials, and sites that help bring the past to life. As a child, I remember visiting these sites with my parents and classmates, learning about the significant events of World War II in the very places where they unfolded. The Ardennes, for example, was a pivotal region during the war, particularly during the Battle of the Bulge. It's where fierce fighting took place, and its forests and hills still hold the echoes of that intense period. Growing up in such an environment, World War II wasn't just distant history; it was a living, breathing part of our daily lives.
My personal connection to this history is also shaped by my family. Four of my great-grandparents,great-granduncle and aunt, lived through the war. They would often share their memories with me, recounting their experiences in the Ardennes during the German occupation, the time some spent as prisoners and the aftermath. The stories they told shaped my vision of life, taught me resilience, and the complexities of life during wartime. These conversations deepened my understanding of the war while also instilled in me a deep respect for those who lived through it and the sacrifices they made. These family histories have always stayed with me, fueling my passion for preserving the memory of World War II and the lessons it carries.
Being a military wife comes with its unique set of challenges, one of the biggest being the constant moving. Every two to three years, we pack up and relocate, leaving behind the familiar and venturing into unknown territories. In 2021, we moved to New Orleans, and in 2024 and 2025, we’ll move again. The transient nature of military life can sometimes feel isolating, but volunteering has given me a way to create meaningful connections, even in new places.
In New Orleans, I chose to volunteer at the World War II Museum. I’ve always admired the museum’s dedication to preserving the stories of the soldiers, the civilians, and the world-changing events of that era. When I first began volunteering there, I assumed that most of the other volunteers would be older, possibly retired, but I quickly realized that this turned out to be a benefit rather than a challenge. Although I may be one of the youngest volunteers, this age gap has proven invaluable in so many ways. The wealth of knowledge and experience that my older peers bring to the table is extraordinary, and their stories and perspectives have deepened my understanding of the history I hold so dear. In return, I’ve found that I bring a fresh perspective, one shaped by a personal connection to the military, which has fostered some meaningful conversations.
Volunteering at the WWII Museum in New Orleans has been an incredible way for me to bond with people and feel more connected to the community around me. The work I’ve done there, from helping with events to sharing the museum’s message, has allowed me to meet a diverse group of individuals who share a passion for history and service. These interactions have not only helped me adapt more quickly to New Orleans but have also offered a sense of belonging, which is vital when you’re constantly uprooting your life.
In addition to my work at the WWII Museum, my role at the French Consulate has been another key part of my volunteer experience. For the D-Day event, I had the honor of working alongside a World War II veteran who shared his personal stories of courage and sacrifice. Helping to organize such an event was deeply moving, and it allowed me to forge a connection between my French heritage and my new life in the U.S.
As a French immigrant, I’ve been in the U.S. for the past five years, and while adjusting to a new country can be daunting, volunteering has played a pivotal role in my integration. The opportunity to serve in these spaces whether it’s at the World War II Museum or the consulate has allowed me to give back while simultaneously feeling connected to the communities that have welcomed me. I’m proud to be part of something larger than myself, and I’m eager to continue contributing, especially as we prepare for our upcoming move to Washington, D.C. I already have plans to volunteer there, as I believe that no matter where we go, finding ways to serve and engage with the local community will always be key to adapting and thriving.
In the end, volunteering has become much more than a way to pass the time or fill my days, it has been a way to deepen my roots, to understand my place in this ever-changing world, and to continue my own journey of learning, service, and connection. For anyone facing the challenges of constant change, I can say that finding a cause you’re passionate about is an incredible way to build lasting bonds, and for me, volunteering has been the bridge to forming those connections with both people and history.
