Please note that AskHistorians is a subreddit for the discussion of history grounded in historical scholarship. As per sub rules, personal anecdotes are not allowed even if OP requests them. OP, if you're interested in firsthand stories, please take that part of your question to r/history or r/AskHistory, which are set up for that kind of thing.

We're happy to help with analysis of the situation, though! :)