I am retired military, and civil service, I have almost 50 years combined service. Two of my closest friends are WWII Vets, and often tell stories about their experiences, even I set and listen when they speak.
One just recently turned 92 years old, he was an enlisted Navy pilot during the war, and flew just about every aircraft in the Navy inventory. The other man is 89, he is a retired Marine, a survivor of the Bataan Death March, he has memory problems, and sometimes gets his stories confused, but when he is in good form he has some very interesting stories to tell.
I am currently involved in a Masonic "Take Time To Read" program where several of us go to an elementary school twice each week and read to first and second grade students. I have found that the students like to hear about what it was like when I was growing up, I can only imagine what they would say if my two friends could read and speak to them.
I think it is important that we record as many tales as possible from the old timers. This is not only good for family history, but for society in general. If you know older folks, and they will permit, then record their conversations for those that follow you. My friend, the retired Marine, is currently in the VA Hospital in Big Springs, TX. Due to his medical problems, I doubt that he will ever be released. I wish I had recorded his conversations when I had the chance.