Interview with a WW2 Veteran
Back in February, a woman called me about filming an interview with her father. He was a WW2 veteran and accomplished businessman. She was able to get most of her family together on a sunny Sunday afternoon for a picnic and interview. Family members would take turns asking him about his life. The filming process took about two hours.
He talked about his childhood, the war, his marriage and children, political thoughts and business dealings. It was a wonderful interview and very enlightening for both Jack and myself.
After the interview, we waited for his children to compile photographs to insert into the video. This enhanced what was being discussed. We also went to Monticello (where he had owned much of the land that now holds many businesses) and filmed around where their home had been, his companies, and much more. The rough draft was ready on Father’s Day, and was completed after our family vacation a couple of weeks later.
His daughter then called me to say that her dad had been diagnosed with cancer, and was not given much time. He was able to see the final DVD and was very proud of it. I have to say, this was one of my favorite projects and it turned out very well. Family and friends have had the chance to view it and they ordered quite a number of copies for their large family.
I just received an email letting me know that he passed away last night. Although it is heartbreaking, I am just glad that we were able to accomplish this before his passing. What a wonderful opportunity it was to meet with him and get his memories on tape. His family will always be able to view this when they are missing him. His personality and sense of humor show through on the video and it is priceless.
Jack and I now think that we will want to do that with our own parents and the only living grandparent from either of our sides.
