What is a Silent Hero?

Any serviceman or woman of the United States Armed Forces who died honorably in World War II and during the following months because of wounds received in battle earned the right to be remembered as a Silent Hero.

Private First Class
Lavern Allard

Private First Class Lavern Allard changed my life. He introduced me to people I otherwise would never have met. He showed me that if I am willing to put in the effort, I can accomplish anything.

Hannah Doyle Delta High School, Washington

About Silent Heroes

In addition to the contest, National History Day® is also initiating a new educational program called Silent Heroes. For the first time since 1945, an institution is gathering all the personal stories of those who gave everything for our liberty during World War II. National History Day® is launching a vast project intended to honor servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the different theaters of operations during the war. Gradually, a unique online database featuring memorial pages for individual soldiers is going to be available to everyone. This noble and ambitious undertaking will require the contribution of America’s best ambassadors: its youth!

Flight Officer
Edmund Decker

As we honored our Silent Heroes, it became apparent that we, this new generation, must keep history alive. The sacrifices made by these men must be recognized and honored.

Audrey Calovich Notre Dame de Sion High School, Missouri

Teacher Advisory Board

Melissa Andersen, Serrano High School, California

Theresa Fitzgerald, National Archives and Records Administration, Missouri

Jason Harris, former NHD in Texas Coordinator

Jeff Hawks, NHD in Pennsylvania Coordinator

Sarah Henkel, Northbrook Middle School, Illinois

David Howard, Minnesota

Christina O'Connor, Hingham High School, Massachusetts

Peter Porter, Monroe Township High School, New Jersey

Kevin Wagner, Carlisle Area School District, Pennsylvania