Holiday for Heroes

Premiered December 16, 2016 on PBS.

For most, the holiday season is a time of celebration, spending time with family and friends, observing age-old traditions and enjoying favorite foods. For members of the military, the holidays can be particularly emotional, especially when they are stationed thousands of miles away from home, or are overcoming injuries from their service.

In the uplifting special, Lidia Celebrates America: Holiday for Heroes, Lidia meets with veterans who reflect on their service. Each discusses their longing to be reunited with family during holidays, the challenges and sacrifices of their work, and the pride they take in having defended our country. Together, they create a distinct image of the diversity of the United States military.

Meet the Heroes

Yonas Hagos Yonas Hagos came to the USA from a refugee camp in Sudan at 10 years-old. Continue
Marlene Rodriguez Marlene Rodriguez is one of only 500 women to be awarded the Purple Heart.Continue
Bryan Anderson Bryan Anderson served two tours of duty in Iraq before he lost both legs and his left hand to an IED.Continue
Willie Sherrer Willie Sherrer struggled after leaving the military, but today he owns a barbeque enterprise.Continue
August Dannehl August Dannehl joined the Navy after September 11th, and is now a filmmaker and a chef.Continue
Bob Woodruff Covering the Iraq war, Bob was injured by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in 2006.Continue

As a firm believer that food is the tie that binds us together, Lidia uses her unique gift to bridge cultures, creating a link between the military and civilian lives of our five subjects. As she talks with each veteran, Lidia uncovers what foods mean ‘home’ to them, from Marlene’s mother’s lasagna to Willie’s father’s brisket. As Lidia prepares these dishes with the veterans, she taps into their love for home and country.

Life After the Military

“As I travel the country meeting veterans from all the military branches, I hear mind blowing stories, experience some tears, but also feel real hope and promise,” says Bastianich. “Our veterans and active duty soldiers deserve our utmost respect and appreciation all year long, but especially during the holidays when life can be more challenging for them.”

Video: Watch as veterans talk about the challenges of life after the military, and more.

Explore Resources for Veterans

Go Behind the Scenes

Slideshow: Go behind the scenes with Lidia, on the set of Holiday for Heroes!

Lidia in Norfolk

“I was happy, and honored, to share a holiday meal with [our veterans], and we are happy to share Lidia Celebrates America: Holiday for Heroes with you this holiday season.”