Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Association: History of the Virginia National Guard

Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Association (VPHAA), in partnership with American Legion Post 295, proudly hosted an extraordinary event on May 25th, 2023. Attendees had the privilege of joining Army National Guard Historian Aaron Heft as he delved into the captivating experiences of Virginian National Guardsmen from the esteemed 29th Division. This insightful journey took us from their heroic actions in the historic Meuse-Argonne offensive during World War I to their brave landings on the beaches of Normandy in World War II, while also recognizing the ongoing service of National Guard members today.

Through the engaging narration of Aaron Heft, the audience gained a deeper understanding of the sacrifices, triumphs, and profound impact made by these National Guardsmen. Their stories resonated with the audience, offering a profound appreciation for Virginia’s rich military heritage and the indomitable spirit of those who have served.

The event was made possible by the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Association, an esteemed organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the historical significance of the Piedmont region. This collaboration brought together two organizations committed to honoring and preserving our local heritage.

American Legion Post 295 and the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Association are grateful to all who attended, as well as to Aaron Heft for his enlightening presentation. Together, we honored the extraordinary legacy of Virginian National Guardsmen and celebrated their vital contributions to our military history.