Types of Contributions

Contributions can range from detailed historical accounts to personal reflections, including:

• Biographical Details: Detailed biographical and service information, sourced from records and family memories.
• Military Service Records: Details of enlistment, units served in, roles, deployments, battles, and honours.
• Personal Narratives: Personal stories and anecdotes that highlight the individual’s character and contributions. You can utilise anecdotes, letters, photographs, and personal reflections that offer insights into the experiences and character of the service person or personnel being discussed.
• Historical and Cultural Context: Information that situates the person or groups service within broader historical, social, and cultural contexts.
• Tributes and Remembrances: Personal tributes, stories of legacy, and reflections on the impact of the service person or personnel service on their community and country.

Guidelines for Submission

• Accuracy and Research: Provide accurate and well-researched information. Cite your sources clearly and, where applicable, obtain permission to validate your contributions. This includes acknowledging and crediting recollections shared by veterans, service personnel, or their families to maintain integrity and respect in the narrative.
• Respect for others: Be mindful of how your story might affect others, including fellow veterans, active service members, and civilians. Avoid language that could be seen as derogatory or divisive.
• Privacy and sensitivity: Avoid disclosing sensitive personal information and ensure that the information shared is appropriate and respects the privacy of the personnel being discussed.
• Confidentiality: Avoid sharing classified or sensitive information that could compromise operational security. 
• Avoid graphic content: While it's important to be truthful about the realities of military service, avoid overly graphic descriptions of violence or injury that may distress readers.
• Inclusivity: Recognise and honour the diverse experiences and backgrounds of military personnel. Ensure your contributions reflect this diversity in a respectful manner.

Contributing Stories written by living Veterans or current service personnel

Living veterans or current service personnel hold unique perspectives on military service, offering firsthand accounts of their experiences, challenges, and achievements. As well as reflecting the above guidelines we ask that you also consider the following: 

• Firsthand experiences and reflections on service.
• Lessons learned and insights gained during and after military service.
• Advice for future generations and reflections on the importance of remembrance.
• Be clear in what is your opinion rather than objective analysis.
• Focus on your personal experiences and reflections rather than political opinions or commentary.
• For recollections of very recent or contemporary service, please consider Operational Security (OPSEC) and Personal Security (PERSEC) requirements.

Summary

Contributions to the Online Cenotaph weave together a comprehensive record of military history and personal service. They serve as a meaningful resource for remembrance and education, bringing to life the stories of those who have served. By following these guidelines, contributors can honour the legacy of current service members, living veterans, and those who have died, ensuring their stories are preserved for future generations.

Disclaimer

We welcome public submissions to our Cenotaph Stories but cannot ensure the accuracy of public submissions. This platform serves as a communal resource to share military stories and the views and opinions expressed in the contributions are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of the Auckland War Memorial Museum Tāmaki Paenga Hira or its employees. Contributors are encouraged to research and cite sources accurately. The Museum may review and moderate submissions for historical accuracy and respect.