Veterans Take the Stage
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, November 6, 2025
VETERANS TAKE THE STAGE: PERSONAL STORIES OF SERVICE TOLD LIVE AT THE 9/11 MEMORIAL & MUSEUM
Unscripted storytelling highlights the humanity, humor, and heart behind military service
New York, NY – Every veteran carries with them a story — of courage, of loss, of service, and of the enduring bonds forged through shared sacrifice. On November 6 the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, in collaboration with The Moth, presented Stories of Service: Honoring Veterans in Their Own Words, a live storytelling event that brought those stories to life on stage.
Through this special program, veterans shared deeply personal accounts of their military experiences—crafted in a Moth storytelling workshop held earlier this fall and delivered live, without notes, before an audience gathered in the 9/11 Museum Auditorium. Together, these voices illuminated the many dimensions of service: moments of heroism and humor, fear and compassion, duty and humanity.
“The stories veterans carry are among the most powerful expressions of courage and resilience,” said Clifford Chanin, Director of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. “By providing a platform for these narratives through The Moth, we honor not only their service but also the humanity, humor and heart behind their experiences. This program allows the community to connect with veterans in a deeply personal way, hearing their voices, their truths and their memories firsthand.”
“Every veteran carries a story that shaped who they are. When we share those experiences, we honor not just our own journeys, but the bonds that tie us together,” said Maia Molina-Schaefer, U.S. Marine Corps and Army Veteran. “Storytelling helps us honor and celebrate the service of veterans.”
The Moth Community Program equips participants with the tools and guidance to craft personal stories that resonate, providing space for reflection, creativity and connection. In this collaboration, the veterans’ stories highlight both the universal and individual dimensions of military life, offering audiences a rare and intimate perspective.
“Storytelling is a bridge,” said a Jon Goode, Storyteller, The Moth. “This program allows veterans to share their experiences in ways that educate, inspire and foster empathy. Every story told on this stage strengthens the connection between those who serve and the communities they protect.”
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum’s public programs continue to explore the human dimensions of service, sacrifice, and resilience, offering free events in-person and online throughout the year. More information about this program and other upcoming events can be found here.
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ABOUT THE 9/11 MEMORIAL & MUSEUM
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is the country’s principal institution concerned with exploring 9/11, documenting its impact, and examining its continuing significance. This mission is advanced through commemoration, education, and inspiration. Located on eight of the 16 acres of the World Trade Center site, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum remembers and honors the 2,983 lives lost on September 11, 2001, and February 26, 1993. Through exhibitions, a wide variety of programs, and commemorative events, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum seeks to educate the public – particularly the 100 million Americans born since the attacks – about the consequences of terrorism and its impact on individuals and communities. Through preserving and sharing stories of resilience, compassion, and courage, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum hopes to inspire individuals to build a more compassionate and secure world. For more information or to reserve a ticket to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, please visit 911memorial.org.