Full Breakdown
Mary McCormack Joins Gary Sinise as Co-Host for 37th National Memorial Day Concert
5/25/2026, 12:15:11 PM
Concert Details and Host Change
The 37th National Memorial Day Concert will air live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol on Sunday, May 24, 2026, 8–9:30 p.m. ET on PBS and YouTube. Mary McCormack, 57, will co-host with Gary Sinise after Joe Mantegna withdrew, citing unforeseen circumstances that keep him in Los Angeles. Mantegna had co-hosted for nearly two decades, describing his role as an important way to support the event. The broadcast also marks the United States’ 250th anniversary.
Program Overview and Participants
Mary McCormack, daughter of a U.S. Marine, joins Sinise, who has co-hosted since 2006. The National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Jack Everly, will accompany performances by Alan Jackson, Andy Grammer, Laura Osnes, Mickey Guyton, Jamey Johnson (Marine Corps Reserve veteran), and Blessing Offor. Guests include Noah Wyle, Melissa Leo, and Jonathan Banks. The program will feature segments on the 1776 American Revolution, the 85th anniversary of Pearl Harbor, the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, a Vietnam-War veterans tribute, and a Gold Star Families tribute with “Taps.” The Joint Chiefs of Staff, Service Color Teams, and musical units from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Military District of Washington will also appear.
Official Statements & Responses
Joe Mantegna expressed regret for his absence and reaffirmed his support for the concert’s mission. Mary McCormack said she is honored to co-host and emphasized the event’s role in telling the larger story of service and sacrifice. Gary Sinise called the program a deep honor to salute uniformed service members and their families.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I truly wish I could be there in person this year but due to unforeseen circumstances, I need to remain in Los Angeles,” — Joe Mantegna, Actor
- “What makes this concert so powerful is the way it tells the larger story of service and sacrifice,” — Mary McCormack, Actress
- “are deeply honored to co-host this 37-year tradition at the U.S. Capitol and salute those who have worn the uniform - past and present - and their families who have stood beside them,” — Gary Sinise, Actor
- “This year’s concert is set to honor America’s 250th anniversary.” — Concert organizers, Capital Concerts
Sponsorship, Security, and Broadcast Details
Lockheed Martin returns as lead corporate sponsor and the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans serves as lead underwriter. Additional support comes from the National Park Service, Department of the Army, General Dynamics, PBS, and American Airlines. Attendees must clear U.S. Capitol Police security screening; road closures and parking restrictions remain through May 25. The concert streams live on PBS and YouTube.
