The Veteran’s Lens

Through powerful student-led interviews, this video series gives veterans the opportunity to share their personal stories, experiences, and perspectives in their own words. Students ask thoughtful questions, listen closely, and learn firsthand about service, sacrifice, leadership, and life during times of conflict and change. These conversations support Unfold History’s mission to bring history to life while building understanding, empathy, and connections between generations.

Commander Tom Deitz, U.S. Navy (Retired) & Greyson Rich (student)

Left_New -star-png-ornamental-divider-set-gold

When kids ask real questions, and veterans give real answers.

Right_New -star-png-ornamental-divider-set-gold

Lt. Col. Mike Leonard, recipient of three Distinguished Flying Crosses reflects on his experiences as a Vietnam-era Air Force pilot and Forward Air Controller. He discusses flying combat missions, coordinating air support under extreme conditions, and the challenges of making split-second decisions in the field. He also shares how those experiences shaped his views on leadership, teamwork, and the realities of warfare.

PLAY VIDEO

Robert F Garcia SGT. USMC 1st Battalion 1st Marines Charlie Company 1st Force Reconnaissance CO reflects on his military service and shares stories from his time in uniform, including the challenges he faced, the bonds formed with fellow service members, and how his experiences shaped his understanding of duty and sacrifice.

PLAY VIDEO

Sergeant Eric Olson 3rd Battalion 5th Marines. A combat veteran helps his daughter understand the Pilgrims through the lens of service through his discussion of his time in the military and the lessons he took from his service, including leadership under pressure, adapting to difficult situations, and the lasting impact of his experiences on his life after service.

PLAY VIDEO

Online Classroom

Interactive U.S. history lessons designed for classrooms and homeschool learning.

Individual Episodes _ Homepage banners_Final

The Veteran’s Lens

Through powerful student-led interviews, this video series gives veterans the opportunity to share their personal stories, experiences, and perspectives in their own words. Students ask thoughtful questions, listen closely, and learn firsthand about service, sacrifice, leadership, and life during times of conflict and change. These conversations align with Unfold History’s mission to bring history to life while building understanding, empathy, and connections between generations.

Commander Tom Deitz, U.S. Navy (Retired) & Greyson Rich (student)

When kids ask real questions, and veterans give real answers.

Lt. Col. Mike Leonard, recipient of three Distinguished Flying Crosses shares his experiences as a Vietnam-era Air Force pilot and Forward Air Controller. He discusses flying combat missions, coordinating air support under extreme conditions, and the challenges of making split-second decisions in the field. He also shares how those experiences shaped his views on leadership, teamwork, and the realities of warfare.

PLAY VIDEO

Sergeant Eric Olson 3rd Battalion 5th Marines. Join a combat veteran as he helps his daughter understand the Pilgrims through the lens of service through his discussion of his time in the military and the lessons he took from his service, including leadership under pressure, adapting to difficult situations, and the lasting impact of his experiences on his life after service.

PLAY VIDEO

Online Classroom

Interactive U.S. history lessons designed for classrooms and homeschool learning.

Want More Interviews?

Check out the Voices Behind History Series

Join Miss Jordanna as she travels through time to visit key historical figures in the Voices Behind History Series. Purchase individual interviews with discussion questions, or save money with a Season Bundle, which includes an entire season of videos and curriculum as well as two Voices Behind History Interviews.