SNOHOMISH — Janell Wood knew her grandfather’s time serving as a medic during World War II had changed him.

She wanted to do something different to honor her 88-year-old grandfather. A professional photographer, she decided to photograph and interview Snohomish County World War II veterans for a special book.

Wood grew up in Snohomish. She currently lives in Bonney Lake with her own family, but she never really stopped thinking Snohomish County was her home.

Wood completed the first round of interviews at the Snohomish Senior Center a few weeks ago. Her cousin, who is a journalist, asked most of the questions, and Wood took photographs.

“It was really neat to hear people’s stories,” she said.

Family members came out to the senior center to help during the two days she conducted interviews. The project brought them all closer, she said.

Wood said the experience was humbling. She also was surprised at the anger some World War II veterans still feel almost 70 years later.

The second round of interviews is scheduled for Jan. 18 and 19. Veterans are encouraged to bring World War II-era photos. Wood is looking for more people to participate. If veterans can’t travel to the center but want to take part in the project, she can make a home visit.

When she had the idea for the project, Wood worried it wouldn’t work out, but everything is falling into place, she said.

Wood said her grandfather has been an inspiration for her. She especially admires his love for her grandmother:

They were married for 65 years until her death.

“That love was so strong,” she said. Still, after his wife’s death, her grandfather found the strength to keep on living.

“To watch someone love like that and still continue on, that changes you and makes you want to do something, to give back,” Wood said.

Katya Yefimova: 425-339-3452, kyefimova@heraldnet.com.

World War II project

Snohomish County World War II veterans interested in sharing their stories with Janell Wood should call the Snohomish Senior Center at 360-568-0934 for an appointment.