For Release: 2008-05-12 11:44:00
This Memorial Day weekend, the nation unites with the award-winning National Memorial Day Concert 2008, honoring the service and sacrifice of the men and women of the United States military. The event, airing Sunday, May 25 at 8/7 p.m. CT on KET1 and Monday, May 26 at 9/8 p.m. CT on KET2, is co-hosted for the third year by Gary Sinise (CSI: New York) and Tony Award-winner Joe Mantegna (Criminal Minds), two acclaimed actors who have dedicated themselves to veterans’ causes and supporting the troops in active service.This year’s event pays special tribute to the veterans of World War II, Korea and Vietnam and the war memorials built in their honor in the nation’s 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 bonds that buddies form on the battlefields of Iraq.
Joining co-hosts Sinise and Mantegna is an all-star line-up of dignitaries, actors and musical artists, including Gladys Knight; classical crossover soprano and star of the stage, Sarah Brightman; General Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.); Tony Award-winner Idina Menzel (Wicked, Rent); actor and comedian Denis Leary; country music star Rodney Atkins; actor and singer John Schneider; actress Gail O'Grady (American Dreams, Boston Legal); violin virtuoso Robert McDuffie; and the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of maestro Erich Kunzel. Also appearing is the Soldiers’ Chorus of the U.S. Army Field Band, the U.S. Army Ceremonial Band and the U.S. Army Herald Trumpets.
National Memorial Day Concert 2008 is produced by WETA/Washington. More information about KET programming and education services, as well as how to support KET, can be found at www.ket.org.
Contact: Ellen Soileau
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