National Memorial Day Concert to Air on May 24

Valor. Respect. Legacy. These words describe the deep reverence behind the National Memorial Day Concert, airing live on PBS and the American Forces Network (AFN) on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

The tradition of the National Memorial Day Concert gives the nation an evening to unite as citizens while honoring the courage and sacrifice of those serving in our armed forces, their families, and those who have selflessly given their lives in service to our country.

Family had the opportunity to talk with hosts and Tony Award-winner Joe Mantegna and Emmy Award-winner Gary Sinise, both longtime champions of veterans’ causes, about the upcoming broadcast and their ongoing involvement with the military community.

What about the experiences of our troops resonates with you personally?

Joe Mantegna: > "I think what most resonates with me personally is I'm 78 years old, and I grew up through the whole Vietnam era. It was only due to circumstances that I didn't get the call myself. I remember I was in junior college at the time, and I went for my physical. I even tried to join the Marine Air Corps at one time, but I flunked the eye test. They told me I couldn't be a pilot, but I could load the bombs on the planes if I wanted to.

I decided to take my chances and go back into the draft lottery system. I never got the call, and at the time, I didn't think much about it. But in retrospect, it made me realize that, but for the date of my birthday, my whole life could have been entirely different. Just that in itself resonates deeply with me."

What unique challenges do military members, veterans, and their families face today, and how do events like this concert help?

Gary Sinise: > "Our service members, veterans, and their families carry burdens most Americans never see: time away from loved ones, the challenges of transition, and for many, the weight of visible and invisible wounds. The families serve right alongside them, through deployments, recovery, and the long road of healing.

One of the lessons learned from our history during the Vietnam War is that, whether we agree with the deployment or not, we must never again allow those who serve to come home without the recognition and support they deserve. Events like the National Memorial Day Concert bring our nation together to honor the sacrifice of our defenders and their families, reminding them that they are never forgotten and that we do not take their service for granted."

Why have you chosen to dedicate your time to supporting military and veterans’ concerns?

Joe Mantegna: > "I've chosen to support military and veterans’ causes because I live a very blessed life. I've really accomplished everything I could have hoped to in my life. Early on, I wanted to be an actor, and I became one. I achieved a level of success that I know many people would be very happy to have as well.

I never forget for a moment that it's due to the fact that I live in a country where we have our military. That protection has allowed people like me, and every other citizen in this country, to pursue their dreams. There are a lot of countries on this planet where it's not quite the same. So, as long as we have these men and women who are willing to step up and serve to protect the rights and freedoms in our Constitution, then they're going to have my full support now and forever."

Gary Sinise: > "Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know many of our service members, veterans, and their loved ones, and those personal connections have stayed with me. What resonates with me most is the selflessness of those who choose to serve, knowing full well the risk and the sacrifice it requires of them and their families.

They are the reason I support many military nonprofits and why I created the Gary Sinise Foundation: to remind them that there are so many grateful Americans who want them to know that their service is appreciated. My participation in the National Memorial Day Concert gives me an opportunity to express that gratitude and share extraordinary stories of the brave Americans who have sacrificed to keep us free."

Special Tributes Featured in the 2026 Broadcast

Commemorating the founding of our nation 250 years ago, the 37th annual broadcast will air live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. The evening features several milestone historical tributes:

• The American Revolution (U.S. Semiquincentennial): A special tribute bringing the history of 1776 alive with a salute to the citizen-soldiers and militiamen of the thirteen colonies who fought under General George Washington.
• 85th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor: A segment honoring the millions of Americans who served the nation in uniform and on the home front during World War II, featuring members of the Greatest Generation live on stage.
• 25th Anniversary of September 11: A commemoration remembering the tragic events in New York City, Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon, honoring all those who died that day and the heroes who faced the unthinkable.
• Vietnam War Veterans Tribute: A special salute to Vietnam veterans, particularly those wounded, ill, or injured, highlighting their mission to ensure that post-9/11 and future generations receive the support they deserve.
• Gold Star Families Tribute: The presentation will feature Gold Star families on stage in a moving tribute accompanied by the playing of Taps to honor the over one million men and women who have given their lives since our nation's founding.

Musical Performances and Guest Artists

The annual audience favorite, the Salute to Services, will feature the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Service Color Teams, including:

• The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets
• The U.S. Army Chorus
• The Soldiers’ Chorus of the U.S. Army Field Band
• The U.S. Navy Band Sea Chanters
• The U.S. Air Force Singing Sergeants
• The Armed Forces Color Guard (provided by the Military District of Washington, D.C.)

An array of acclaimed artists and guests will appear throughout the evening, including:

• Four-time Grammy-nominated country music star Mickey Guyton
• Eleven-time Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Jamey Johnson (who served eight years in the Marine Corps Reserve)
• Two-time Tony Award-nominated stage and television star Laura Osnes
• Multi-platinum pop artist and songwriter Andy Grammer
• The National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of top pops conductor Jack Everly

How to Watch

The National Memorial Day Concert airs live on Sunday, May 24, 2026, from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. E.T.

• Television: PBS and the American Forces Network (AFN).
• Streaming: Available live on YouTube and pbs.org/national-memorial-day-concert.
• On Demand: Video on Demand will be accessible from May 24 to June 7, 2026.

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