Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in May 2023. While the airtimes are out of date, we hope you still enjoy learning about these shows, many of which can be streamed on PBS.org.
Memorial Day has been observed in America since shortly after the end of the Civil War. Throughout the war, thousands of soldiers lost their lives. Families lost husbands, fathers and sons. Historical records show dozens of women fought and died, too.
To pay tribute to the fallen soldiers, an organization of Union veterans selected May 30, 1868 as Decoration Day. Eventually, the name changed as more states began observing the day. In 1970, Memorial Day was changed from May 30 to the last Monday in May.
Nowadays, you can find families gathering together to remember and honor soldiers who fought to keep America safe in all of its conflicts. KAMU would like to be a part of your weekend by offering programs to honor and remember America’s heroes.
They Volunteered for This: Merrill’s Marauders
Sunday, May 28 • 3 p.m.
Follow the story of one of World War II’s most heroic units: Merrill’s Marauders. The unit fought in Burma under Frank Merrill. Made up of volunteers, they specialized in “hit and run” tactics. They struggled through a lack of supplies and used mules to move from place to place. Despite this, Merrill’s Marauders were so talented at their job that when they attacked, Japanese soldiers thought they were under siege from 15,000 soldiers when the group was only made up of 3,000 soldiers. News anchor Tom Brokaw narrates the story of these extremally talented and legendary heroes, who recently received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2022.
Learn more about They Volunteered for This: Merrill’s Marauders
National Memorial Day Concert
Sunday, May 28 • 7 and 8:30 p.m.
Join KAMU for one of PBS’ most popular and beloved programs, the “National Memorial Day Concert.” The concert unites America by showing appreciation to those who gave their life to our nation. Performers such as Joe Mantegna, Gary Sinise, The National Symphony Orchestra and more will honor our country’s fallen soldiers and their families. For over 30 years, PBS has featured uplifting performances, documentaries and readings in this tradition that families look forward to each year. Honor and remember our nation’s heroes with KAMU on Sunday, May 28 at 7 p.m. and again at 8:30 p.m.
Learn more about the National Memorial Day Concert
The Seabees on Iwo Jima
Monday, May 29 • 9 p.m.
The story of the Seabees is a powerful piece of history. Construction workers by trade, the Seabees were Navy construction battalion units unloading supplies and building roads and airstrips. But one day, they were called to do much more. This group of men ended up fighting alongside combat troops in the battle for Iwo Jima. Their bravery and heart move anyone who hears this story. PBS brings in CBS Sports’ Jim Nantz to narrate. Join KAMU as we unfold what happened that day and understand the meaning behind the message, “We Build, We Fight.”
Learn more about The Seabees on Iwo Jima
The Tuskegee Airmen: Return to Ramitelli
Monday, May 29 • 10 p.m.
Return with us to Ramitelli Airfield to remember men who broke the mold. The Tuskegee Airmen were a group of African American pilots who not only helped win World War II but helped break stereotypes. In this documentary, the daughter of one of the pilots visits the remains of the Italian airfield to remember. Help us remember the fallen with the retelling of the story of the Tuskegee Airmen, narrated by country star, Darius Rucker.
