Gary Sinise, the renowned actor known for his role in Forrest Gump, is set to pay tribute to a Pearl Harbor hero, Chuck Kohler, during the National Memorial Day Concert. This concert, a nonpartisan event, aims to honor the sacrifices made by those who served their country. Sinise, a veteran's advocate, will co-host the event with Mary McCormack, taking the opportunity to thank Kohler, one of the few remaining survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack, in person. The concert, which will be televised, will feature musical acts and performances by the National Symphony Orchestra, including pieces composed by Sinise's late son, Mac.
The event will also include a special tribute to Vietnam War veterans and Gold Star families, representing over a million men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Noah Wyle and Melissa Leo will bring the stories of militiaman Joseph Plumb Martin and retired Lt. Gen. Patricia D. Horoho to life, respectively. Jonathan Banks will narrate the story of Chuck Kohler, who, at 16, convinced his father to sign his enlistment form and went on to play a crucial role in the defense of Pearl Harbor.
The National Memorial Day Concert is a significant annual event, attracting millions of viewers. It is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served their country and to honor their service. The concert will be broadcast live on PBS on May 24, with service members around the world able to watch on the American Forces Network. It will also be available on YouTube and PBS.org, and as Video on Demand from May 24 to June 7, 2026.
This year's concert is particularly poignant, given the passing of Chuck Kohler's comrades from the Greatest Generation. It serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring those who have served, and the sacrifices they have made for their country. The event is a testament to the power of live television to bring people together and to honor the heroes who have served our nation.
