Military Appreciation Month Programming
WEDU PBS salutes and honors our troops and veterans during Military Appreciation Month in May. We invite you to explore the brave stories of national heroes, including legacies untold and tributes to those who have fought for our freedom.
Join us throughout the month of May to show appreciation for the sacrifice and service our troops have dedicated to our nation. We have also included links to resources for veterans, troops, and their families.
Thursday, May 4:
WEDU Arts Plus Episode 441 | 8 p.m. | WEDU
In this edition of WEDU Arts Plus, an open mic night offers military veterans an opportunity for healing. Learn More
Thursday, May 18:
WEDU Art Plus Episode 438 | 8 p.m. | WEDU
In this edition of WEDU Arts Plus, Tampa Bay veterans share their stories of service on stage in The Telling Project. Learn More
Tuesday, May 23:
A New Leash on Life the K9s For Warriors Story |1 p.m. | WEDU
The documentary features the impact of service dog agency K9s For Warriors on the lives of three American veterans struggling with trauma. Founded by Shari Duval and her son Brett Simon, who served two tours in Iraq, K9s For Warriors matches veterans Adam, Shilo, and Louis with companion dogs. Learn More
Saturday, May 27:
The Tuskegee Airmen: Return to Ramitelli | 8 p.m. | WEDQ
The legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, a group of Black military pilots who flew escort for American bombers during World War II; the daughter of one of the pilots visits the remains of the base at Ramitelli in Italy. Learn More
Sunday, May 28:
National Memorial Day Concert | 8 p.m. & 9:30 p.m. | WEDU
The National Memorial Day Concert honors our country’s veterans, service men and women and military families. For over 30 years, this multi-award-winning television event, featuring uplifting musical performances, documentary footage and dramatic readings, has become an American tradition and is one of PBS’ highest-rated programs. Learn More
Elvis and the USS Arizona |11 p.m. | WEDU
The surprising story of how one of music's biggest icons helped to establish a USS Arizona memorial in Pearl Harbor. Elvis’ fundraising concert drew public attention to the plight and helped to galvanize efforts to finish the USS Arizona Memorial as it stands today. Learn More
Monday, May 29:
The Seabees of IWO JIMA | 10 p.m. | WEDU
The Seabees on Iwo Jima focuses on the United States Naval Construction Battalions in World War II, which built all the infrastructure for the Allies in Europe and the Pacific in WWII. The Seabees were construction workers by trade but had to fight at times. Their motto was "We Build, We Fight," their biggest test came in the battle for Iwo Jima in 1945. Learn More
Vietnam War: Voices From the Bay |11 p.m. | WEDU
“The Vietnam War: Voices from the Bay” focuses on those who fought, those who continued battling on the home front, and those who call it the most significant experience of their lives. Learn More
Heroes from the Bay | 11:30 p.m. | WEDU
Explore the unique World War II history surrounding the Bay Area including MacDill Air Force Base; the Florida National Cemetery at Bushnell, and Drew Field which eventually became Tampa International Airport. Learn More
Tuesday, May 30:
Pearl Harbor- Into the Arizona | 11 p.m. | WEDU
On the eve of the 75th anniversary, join the first expedition to explore inside the USS Arizona since the date that lives in infamy, as state-of-the-art imaging technology reveals the aftermath and incredible story of the Pearl Harbor attack. Learn More
The Military and Veteran Crisis Line
Help is available 24/7, 365 days a year for veterans in crisis and their families and friends.
If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms of emotional distress, including thoughts of suicide, immediate help is available by dialing 988 (Press 1).
Confidential help is also available in a chat online, or by sending a text message to 838255.
