LIVE with The Famous Dr AL and Tim Gray

Tim Gray – Preserving the Greatest Generation’s Legacy

Join Dr. Allen Lycka for a moving and insightful conversation with award-winning director and producer Tim Gray, the founder of the World War II Foundation. With 40 documentaries under his belt, six regional Emmys, and numerous global accolades, Tim’s mission is to preserve and share the untold stories of World War II through powerful, personal storytelling.

From Sports Anchor to Documentarian

Tim shares how he spent 15 years as a television sportscaster, covering iconic athletes like Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods, before making a complete career pivot. His lifelong interest in World War II, sparked by reading his first book on the subject at age six, inspired him to follow a deeper passion—telling the stories of veterans and survivors with historical accuracy and emotional depth.

The Power of Personal Testimony

Tim explains the unique approach he takes in his documentaries—letting veterans guide the narrative. These stories, often untold even to family members, are shared with Tim in confidence, offering catharsis and preserving crucial history. He recounts the contrast between the European and Pacific theaters, describing the stark brutality of jungle warfare and the differing emotional tolls they took on soldiers.

Legacy, Education, and Emotional Truths

Through his films and the World War II Foundation’s museum in Rhode Island, Tim educates younger generations who often know of WWII only through video games. By personalizing the stories—comparing today's youth to 17-year-olds who stormed beaches or flew bombing missions—he bridges the emotional gap between past and present. His work ensures that the legacy of those who served is never forgotten.

Leadership, Narrators, and Memorials

Tim discusses working with narrators like Kevin Bacon, Tom Brokaw, Gary Sinise, and Jim Nantz—all of whom have personal military connections. He also shares the story behind the Richard D. Winters Leadership Monument in Normandy, a project close to his heart that honors junior officers of D-Day. For Tim, this was one of his life’s most meaningful accomplishments.

The Future of the WWII Foundation

With eight new projects in production, including films narrated by Paul Giamatti and John Malkovich, Tim and his foundation continue to expand their global impact. Their content remains free and accessible to students and educators worldwide—part of their ongoing mission to ensure these stories are never lost to time.

Discover More

To explore the films, educational resources, and upcoming projects, visit the World War II Foundation online by Googling “World War II Foundation.” Watch, learn, share, and consider supporting this vital historical mission.

BIO: Award-winning Director and Producer Tim Gray has created 40 powerful World War II documentaries through the non-profit World War II Foundation, earning six regional Emmys and dozens of international honors. His films—narrated by stars like Tom Brokaw, Kevin Bacon, and Liev Schreiber—rank among the top five most requested by PBS affiliates. Tim’s storytelling has left a global impact, with projects filmed on location across Europe and the Pacific and broadcasts reaching audiences worldwide.

Social Media Links:

https://wwiifoundation.org/bio-tim-gray/