Why Interview Charley Valera?
Award-winning documentary filmmaker, author, pilot, and speaker Charley Valera brings history to life through compelling storytelling and firsthand accounts from America’s Greatest Generation.
Drawing from more than a decade of interviewing World War II veterans, Valera offers audiences a unique perspective on the untold stories of ordinary men who lived through extraordinary times. His conversations go beyond military history, exploring courage, sacrifice, resilience, leadership, family, and the importance of preserving personal stories before they are lost forever.
An engaging and experienced guest, Valera has appeared on television, radio, podcasts, and before audiences ranging from historical societies and libraries to aviation organizations and veterans groups. His presentations combine humor, emotion, and fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from the making of his award-winning documentary, My Father’s War: Memories from Our Honored WWII Soldiers, and the interviews that inspired it.
Whether discussing World War II history, documentary filmmaking, aviation, disaster response, writing, or the lessons today’s generations can learn from those who served, Valera provides informative, memorable conversations that resonate with audiences of all ages.
Ideal interview topics include:
- The untold stories of America’s Greatest Generation
- Behind the scenes of producing My Father’s War
- What WWII veterans taught us about courage and resilience
- Why preserving family history matters
- The art of interviewing and storytelling
- Documentary filmmaking and independent production
- Aviation, operating an FAA-approved flight school
- The use of general aviation for disaster response
- Writing, publishing, and bringing history to life
