On the last Monday in the month of May we, as a nation, take a moment to honor and remember all of the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. More than just a long weekend, or time to spend with family over a barbeque, this day is an opportunity to reflect upon the stories of these heroic men and women.
These men and women, who have so faithfully served and paid the ultimate sacrifice, along with their families have such a rich history. And this Memorial Day, PBS’ National Memorial Day Concert will host a live presentation from Washington D.C.
Featuring all-star musical performances and tributes, the 90-minute broadcast of the 33rd annual National Memorial Day Concert will air on PBS and stream on YouTube and www.pbs.org/national-memorial-day-concert on Sunday, May 29, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. E.T.
This star-studded event, hosted by Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise, features Mary McCormack, Jean Smart, American Idol Pia Toscano, and many more. These celebrities join the National Symphony Orchestra to present a program honoring the men and women in uniform, veterans, their families, and all those who have given their lives in service to our country.
After two years of virtual presentations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there will once again be a live concert broadcast to the nation. Please join us on PBS and streaming to honor our military heroes and their families. The concert venue is not open to the public as the Capitol complex continues its phased re-opening (please visit here.)
In a recent interview with Mary McCormack, a Tony-nominated star of stage and screen, several military community members and platform representatives were able to sit down for a fire side chat interview. McCormack, the daughter of a Marine, shared her excitement around this year’s live event.
During the program, McCormack will be honoring and remembering women in World War II. One of the questions we asked McCormack was about her process in preparing for the PBS program. I was curious if there was a woman, or a story, that personally inspired her.
McCormack described getting lost in a sea of photos- researching women who fearlessly stepped in to serve. One woman she mentioned, Jane Kendeigh, was the first Navy flight nurse who dropped into Iwo Jima-rescuing over 2500 Sailors and Marines. Blown away by how many times this trailblazing woman stepped into harms way, she talked about being so inspired by her courage.
This Memorial Day, may we find ourselves gratefully remembering the fallen and honoring their sacrifice. There is a deep and abiding value to knowing the stories and rich histories of these men and women. When we know these things, can reflect on the principles of patriotism and freedom- along with the cost.
Tune in on Sunday, May 29th at 8:00 EST for the PBS National Memorial Day Concert to hear beautiful music and the interwoven stories of our nation’s fallen.