Finding Purpose in Finding Battlefields

The Veterans Archaeology Program at Fort Ligonier

Abstract

Dr. Burns gives insight into his program, The Veterans Archeology Project, which supports the transition of military veterans into civilian life while engaging in the exploration of colonial-era battlefields. He explains that this grassroots initiative is the product of a collaborative partnership between the Juniata College Cultural Research Institute and Fort Ligonier, a non-profit institution dedicated to interpreting and retelling western Pennsylvania’s colonial history. Specifically focusing on a lesser-known chapter of George Washington’s military service during the Forbes Campaign in the French and Indian War, Burns talks about their investigation of the unfortunate “friendly fire” incident of November 12, 1758. All in all, this unique collaboration between archaeologists and combat veterans facilitates meaningful interactions in the community while unearthing often overlooked details of this historical event.