The National Memorial Day Concert: Photo Blog

Editor’s note: Sponsored by Capitol Concerts. You can also read more about Sharita’s experience at The National Memorial Day Concert here. 

Remember that saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words?” Well, I think it’s true. I was recently privileged to attend The National Memorial Day Concert in Washington, D.C., and today, I want to share some of the most photogenic moments.

I had the great privilege to chat with one of the producers of The National Memorial Day Concert, Jill Jackson. Her heart to honor our fallen service men and women (and their families) was down right inspirational.

The various milspouse press representatives had an opportunity to pose with Actress Ana Ortiz. Another beautiful soul!

Recognize the gal on the left? Yep, that is the voice of Moana, Auli’i Cravalho. She was such a sweet soul, passionate and kind, with a voice that did our National Anthem so proud.

One really cool part of the entire experience was talking to and meeting some of the celebrities who were taking part in the program. If America could be embodied in a person, Robert Patrick (Terminator 2) would be the guy. After listening to him share his incredible motivation for supporting our troops, I had no other questions to ask him, other than “Will you be my adopted grandpa?” (He said yes. So I think it’s a done deal, folks.)

 Panoramic shot of the entire stage as they prep for dress rehearsal on Saturday night.

Our dynamic show hosts for the evening were Laurence Fishburne (standing in for Gary Sinese) and Joe Mantegna.

Robert Patrick, sharing a powerful narrative of “The Last Doolittle Raider.”

The actual Last Doolittle Raider. If you’ve never heard this story, please read it here—you won’t be disappointed.

Recognition of the Tuskegee Airmen was probably one of the most-applauded tributes of the night. These gentlemen are true American heroes!

John Ondrasik from Five For Fighting sang a rousing song, “All for One.” It was probably my favorite musical performance of the night. Great tune, greater message.

Tony-nominated actress Mary McCormack shared a very touching narrative and tribute to Gold Star Families. And one quote she shared, I will never forget: “The wounded are not the only casualties of war.”

 

As a country girl myself, I really appreciated country-music sensation Scotty McCreery’s performance of “The Dash.”

The Joint Chiefs of Staff, sharing a message to all of our service members after a salute to all of our military branches.

Yes, readers, that is General (Ret.) Colin Powell. My husband was pretty jealous that I was in close proximity to him.

And after what seemed just a few moments (it was actually close to 90 minutes), it was time for the grand finale. To say I was utterly impressed would be an understatement.

Readers: Did you have the opportunity to tune into The National Memorial Day Concert? What did you think? If you missed it, don’t worry. Watch the program in its entirety over on YouTube, connect with them on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter @MemorialDayPBS. You can also check out the hashtag #MemDayPBS to recap the on-the-spot tweets from the event.

Oh, one last thing: Be sure to catch A Capitol Fourth Concert, broadcast by PBS on July 4 at 8 p.m. eastern. If The National Memorial Day concert is any indication (and I am sure it is!) this is no doubt going to be a great show!