By Michaela Gordoni
Movie star Joe Mantegna will join Gary Sinise for our nation’s Memorial Day Concert for the 20th year in a row.
Mantegna first participated in the event in 2002 and began to host in 2006.
“When I walked down that stage for the first time in 2002 and looking at a quarter of a million people who have come to watch it live on the west lawn capital building…” he told KyXy 96.5 this month. “This is just months after 9/11 — My job was to recount the story of four New York men who had lost their sons in 9/11…”
“I’m having to say words like, ‘It’s a good day when they find a portion of your son’s uniform in the rubble,’ and that’s when it hit me — I’m not doing this for performance,” he said.
He explained that he realized this wasn’t just some gig. It was a significant job that brought information and remembrance to millions of Americans.
“This is history,” the BABY’S DAY OUT actor recalled. “This is what we’re going through right now. And the emotion of it…I’ve never felt more American…in the sense of wow, collectively, we as a nation are going through this incredible tragedy but we have to get past this,” he said.
“This is something special,” he continued. “And that’s why I’ve been doing it for over 20 years since, because I feel Memorial Day is the most important holiday we have in this country…It’s the holiday that allows us to celebrate all the other holidays.’
The concert will occur on May 25 at the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. It will air at 8 p.m. on PBS and will be available on demand until June 8.
Other celebrities who will join in the event are Robert Patrick, Gretchen Mol, Blair Underwood, Loren Allred, Scotty Hasting, Yolanda Adams, Mary McCormack, Angel Blue and Maestro Jack Everly with the National Symphony Orchestra, UPI reported.
Related: ‘I Have to Do Something’: How CRIMINAL MINDS’ Joe Mantegna Honors Military Members
Sinise said in a statement, “Joe and I are honored to host this annual tribute to our American heroes — past and present — that salutes the courage and commitment of those who have served and those who continue to serve. The freedoms we enjoy are made possible by the brave men and women who wear the uniform.”
Sinise spreads awareness for and encourages America’s military on a full-time basis. On Monday, he and his foundation spent the day with first responders and gave them lunch.
“Serving heroes today at NYC’s Ladder 2/Engine 8 firehouse — right in the heart of Manhattan. Grateful to spend time with these brave firefighters and thank them for all they do to keep their city safe. It is always an honor to support our first responders,” Sinise said.
Mantegna and Sinise’s dedication to Americans who put their lives at risk is much appreciated.
Read Next: Actor Gary Sinise Reflects on Hollywood Career: ‘Life is About Giving Back, Serving’
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