PBS unites the nation with the award-winning National Memorial Day Concert (2008) honoring the service and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform, their families at home and all of those who have given their lives for our country.
The event is co-hosted for the third year by Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna, two acclaimed actors who have dedicated themselves to veterans causes and supporting the troops in active service.
This years special tributes are to the veterans of World War II, Korea and Vietnam and the sacred war memorials built in their honor in the Nations Capital.
Actor Charles Durning, a highly decorated World War II veteran and 14-year National Memorial Day Concert participant, will be recognized for his bravery and sacrifice as part of the Greatest Generation. The valor of the newest veterans will be honored as the program examines the lasting bonds that buddies form on the battlefields of Iraq.
The Concert will also be broadcast via American Forces Radio and Television Network to the approximately 1 million U.S. Armed Forces, Department of Defense civilian employees and their families stationed overseas in 176 countries and territories and aboard more than 200 U.S. Navy ships at sea.
Actor Gary Sinise rehearses for the 19th Annual PBS National Memorial Day Concert on Capitol Hill in Washington Saturday, May 24, 2008.
Entertainer Sarah Brightman performs during a rehearsal for the 19th Annual PBS National Memorial Day Concert on Capitol Hill in Washington Saturday, May 24, 2008.
Actor John Schneider performs during a rehearsal for the 19th Annual PBS National Memorial Day Concert on Capitol Hill in Washington Saturday, May 24, 2008
Gladys Knight smiles as she approaches the microphone during a rehearsal for the 19th Annual PBS National Memorial Day Concert on Capital Hill in Washington Saturday, May 24, 2008
Gary Sinise is one standup guy! I wonder if he is a registered Republican?? Does anyone know? I know he has performed for the troops.