History Film Forum presents “American Sons”

American Sons follows a brotherhood of Marines a decade after their deployment to Afghanistan as they struggle to overcome the trauma of combat and the loss of their friend Corporal JV Villarreal. At the heart of this 2025 documentary is JV’s narrated, first-person video diary of his life in Afghanistan, which serves as both a window into the past and a testament to the unbreakable bonds of those who sacrifice in war together. After the film, join us for a panel discussion with special guests:

• Cpl. William "Billy" Branch (a Marine who served alongside JV)
• April Villarreal Rodriguez (JV’s sister)
• Laura Varela (producer)
• Andrew James Gonzales (director/producer) This film has sensitive content. Visitors under 17 require an accompanying parent or adult guardian.

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The National Museum of American History welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities. This event is wheelchair accessible. Captioning and assistive listening devices will be provided. Additional accommodations are available upon request; please email nmahprograms@si.edu. Two weeks’ notice is preferred.

Seating is limited and reservations are recommended. Seating will be opened first to Eventbrite-registered attendees and then to walk-in visitors. When we reach maximum capacity, the event will be closed to the public.

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The History Film Forum is supported by the Golden Globe Foundation and Robert P. and Arlene R. Kogod Family Foundation.

Technology upgrades in the Warner Bros. Theater were generously made possible by the Dolby family and Dolby Laboratories Inc.