Friends and family must preserve the stories of these men and women or they will be lost forever.

Understandably many are reluctant to share memories that still conjure up horror, but for those who are willing it is imperative that we record their stories for future generations.

All it takes is a few hours, a tape recorder and the patience to sit and listen.

The Ararat Advertiser was lucky enough to spend a few hours with one World War II veteran last week, who wonderfully has written a book of his experiences.

All veterans have a story to tell and all must be recorded before it is too late.

It is Australia's history and through their sacrifice we are able to lead the lives we do in what we call `the lucky country.

The men and women who fought not only in the first and second world wars, but in all conflicts since, have a story to tell.

Younger generations may have a father or grandfather who fought in Vietnam. They too have stories that must be recorded.

It's through understanding what these men and women have experienced in times of war that we can come to understand who we are as their descendants and as a nation.