One of the most distinctive collections in the Metro Archives, accompanied by a story that is both touching and emotional, is the Jo Ann Connor Collection. Mrs. Connor, a retired high school librarian, volunteered with Metro Archives for many years. In recognition of her commitment, she (or her family) donated an extraordinary collection of Christmas cards she received annually from the White House, spanning from President Nixon to President Obama. The truly moving part of this collection, however, lies in the reason she received these cards.
Remembering the Spouses of MIA Soldiers
Jo Ann's husband, Charles, served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. At the young age of 30, Charles went missing while serving in Vietnam. To my knowledge, his remains were never found or recovered. Over time, Jo Ann came to terms with the fact that she may never see him again, but she remained actively involved in the "Family Updates" provided by the Department of Defense's Prisoner of War/Missing Personnel Office.
In addition to these updates, Jo Ann began receiving annual Christmas cards from U.S. presidents starting in 1971, after Charles went missing. While I’ve been unable to find more detailed information about this program, a few letters in the collection offer some insight into its mission and purpose. For example, one of the Christmas cards from President George H.W. Bush includes a letter that sheds light on this initiative...
The letter reads:
Christmas, 1990
"During this holiday season, our thoughts naturally turn to home, family, and friends. However, I know that, for those of you still waiting for word about a loved one missing in Southeast Asia, the joy of the holidays cannot be complete.
The priority we have placed on obtaining the fullest possible accounting of those still missing has motivated our policy throughout the year. I am encouraged by the visit of Vietnamese Foreign Minister Nguyen Co Thach to Washington, and we welcome his new commitment to cooperate in this important matter. During his meeting with General Vessey, Minister Thach announced that his government would work to provide more information and to expand efforts to help end the uncertainty for so many American families.
Our military forces accepted great risks and made great sacrifices for the sake of our country and for the universal cause of freedom, and they deserve equal allegiance from us. I wholeheartedly reaffirm to you my Administration's determination to resolve the remaining questions about the fate of Americans missing in Southeast Asia.
Barbara joins me in sending you our warmest best wishes."
George Bush
