The importance of preserving the stories of World War II veterans has never been more urgent, as we lose an average of 131 of them each day, according to the National WWII Museum.

These men and women, often referred to as "The Greatest Generation," shaped history with their courage and sacrifices, but many of their voices are fading.

However, some families are determined to ensure that these vital stories live on. One such family has uncovered a treasure trove of letters that provide a glimpse into the life of a Navy veteran who bravely served during the war.

Mary Heider knows how special her father was. John Whiteman, an accomplished artist and dedicated father, also served as a sailor in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He was a member of a minesweeper crew that played a key role in the invasion that changed the course of history.

"The minesweeper he was on was one of the first ships into Normandy," Mary recalls. "He was there on D-Day. The minesweepers were so important to clear the way so the invasion could happen."

Although John Whiteman didn’t often speak about his wartime experiences, his daughter has made it her mission to keep his story alive. About two years ago, Mary made a remarkable discovery - a box filled with over 100 letters her father had written to his siblings during the war. These letters, many of which were written while he was stationed in the English Channel, offer a powerful, personal account of the war’s harrowing reality.

One letter describes his role during the Normandy invasion, capturing the tension and fear that gripped his shipmates: "Let me tell you, the crew was plenty nervous on that trip. It’s a sight I’ll never forget as long as I live."

Another letter recounts a traumatic event - the sinking of an American troop transport ship on Christmas Eve in1944. "I’ll never forget this Christmas as long as I live, and I hope God spares me another one like it," John wrote.

For Mary, reading these letters opened a door to her father’s past that she had never fully understood. "I realized these are the stories he never told me and I never asked about," she reflects.

Determined to ensure that these powerful stories were shared with others, Mary turned her father's letters into a blog dedicated to preserving his legacy. The website now serves as a digital time capsule, showcasing the heroism and sacrifice of John Whiteman and countless others who served during World War II. Through her father’s letters, Mary has connected with a broader audience, allowing others to learn about the bravery and dedication of a generation that is slowly slipping away.

The blog can be accessed by clicking here.