"Thank you, PBS -- thank you so much for the remarkable Memorial Day Concert. There was nothing but pride and compassion and wonderful talents and personalities involved. I wept as I haven't in years, and I prayed for this glorious land of ours. Please let the producers, supporters and talented performers who brought it home to us know how very much they are appreciated."

Janice Eckel
AZ

THE CONCERT

Previous Years’ Concerts

Over the past 23 years, the “National Memorial Day Concert” has featured uplifting musical performances, documentary footage and dramatic readings that honor all Americans who have served or made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. This section offers highlights from our previous shows. Read other poignant stories from previous concerts on our Stories from Previous Concerts page.

The organization Sons and Daughters in Touch was featured on the 2011 “National Memorial Day Concert”

Past Show Honorees

“National Memorial Day Concert” honorees Michelle Githens Baugh, Leesa Philippon and Taryn Davis wrote letters to the show’s Producers about their experiences attending the concert.

Michelle Githens Baugh is greeted by Gen. Colin Powell following the tribute to her father, Richard Githens, who was killed in Vietnam when she was only three months old.

“There hasn't been a day since the concert that I haven't thought of my experience in DC on May 29th [2011] and its impact on my life and that of my family … I am so proud to say you've touched my life. You brought my father to life!!!” – Michelle Githens Baugh

Leesa Philippon’s story was shared on the 2011 “National Memorial Day Concert” by actress Dianne Wiest. Leesa’s son, Marine Lance Corporal Lawrence Philippon, was killed in Iraq.

“The response from those who saw the Concert and know us has been constant and overwhelming. We have been lovingly inundated with emails, texts, Facebook messages, calls, letters and many hugs. … I love telling folks how genuine the efforts are that you all give to this mission of honor and remembrance. The education that you provide through this concert is a blessing and a loving reminder to America. … As your embrace brought us tremendous comfort, your heartfelt production also brought comfort to Larry's Marine friends. As the program aired live, they were texting and calling to say how happy they were to see Larry being remembered. They in turn reminisced about their time with him and called to assure us that they will never forget.” – Leesa Philippon

Taryn Davis was 21 when her husband, Army Cpl. Michael W. Davis, was killed by a roadside bomb in Iraq and she became a widow. Taryn’s journey of healing inspired her to create the American Widow Project.

“The American Widow Project would not be where it is today had it not been for all of you at Capitol Concerts, and myself and all the widows we serve will always be grateful for that fact and honor. I don't think any Memorial Day will ever live up to the one I was able to experience last year, but I'll always have my memories of that May 30th, 2010, to remind me of the first time the grief and loss wasn't the trumping force, but more the pride and happiness of being with my fellow widows and honoring our loved one's sacrifice at the level that they singly deserve.” – Taryn Davis