Older Veterans : The materiality of reminiscence, making unknown histories knowable and forging social connections

Long, Emma and Edwards, Annabelle and McWade, Brigit and Clark, Sam and Brewster, Liz (2021) Older Veterans : The materiality of reminiscence, making unknown histories knowable and forging social connections. Memory Studies, 14 (4). pp. 892-908. ISSN 1750-6980

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Abstract

Materials have long been used by individuals reflecting on personal histories, and researchers have evidenced the associated therapeutic value particularly among older populations. In this article, we consider older veterans’ reminiscence through attending interviews and workshops, focussing on the performative potential of engaging with materials collected throughout their service lives. By considering their use of in situ and post-hoc materials, two themes are explored: the use of materials to build a sense of belonging; and making unknown histories knowable. We consider how their sharing of materials (re)produces their past and present military identities, simultaneously drawing boundaries of inclusion and exclusion around what it means to be military or non-military (civilian). Through sharing materials, veterans facilitated discussions with both military and non-military persons, enabling feelings of connection and belonging.

Item Type:
Journal Article
Journal or Publication Title:
Memory Studies
Uncontrolled Keywords:
/dk/atira/pure/subjectarea/asjc/3200/3207
Subjects:
?? communityidentitiesmaterialsmemoriesphotographsveteranssocial psychologyexperimental and cognitive psychologycultural studies ??
ID Code:
154255
Deposited By:
Deposited On:
26 Apr 2021 08:20
Refereed?:
Yes
Published?:
Published
Last Modified:
18 Feb 2024 00:59