Benjamin Hertwig

In this thought-provoking discussion, historian Michael Petru shares insights from his oral-history interviews with veterans. Poet and Afghan war veteran Benjamin Hertwig expresses his mixed feelings about formal rituals, preferring personal remembrance over public ceremonies. WWII veteran Blanche Bennett highlights the need for women’s contributions to be recognized, while Russell Kaye recalls his emotional return to D-Day sites. Together, they explore the complex relationship veterans have with Remembrance Day and emphasize the importance of educating future generations about the true costs of war.