Each year on Veterans Day, Arkansas PBS proudly honors the men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform – and the families who support them. This day of reflection and gratitude reminds us of the courage, sacrifice and resilience shown by those who have served in times of war and peace. To celebrate, we’re sharing a powerful lineup of programs that bring their stories to life – from personal interviews and historic documentaries to moving musical tributes – offering Arkansans the opportunity to connect, remember and give thanks to all who have served.
Veteran and Service-Focused Personal Stories
“After Action” – Hosted by Air Force combat veteran Stacy Pearsall, “After Action” reveals the experiences of 21 diverse veterans from across the country. Conversations about life before, during and after action provide a deeper appreciation for those who’ve served.
“Craft in America: Service” – “Service” is the story of craft and the military from the origins of the Army Arts & Crafts Program and the G.I. Bill to contemporary soldiers and veterans, “Service” documents the power of the handmade to inspire, motivate and heal.
Only on Passport:
“Native America: Warrior Spirit”
“The Warrior Tradition”
“We’ll Meet Again”
Historical War Documentaries
“The Vietnam War” – “The Vietnam War” is a 10-part, 18-hour documentary film series directed by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick. In an immersive 360-degree narrative, Burns and Novick tell the epic story of the Vietnam War as it has never before been told on film. “The Vietnam War” features testimony from nearly 100 witnesses.
“The War” – The War is the story of the Second World War through the personal accounts of a handful of men and women from four American towns. The war touched the lives of every family on every street in every town in America and demonstrated that in extraordinary times, there are no ordinary lives.
“The Last 600 Meters: The Battles of Najaf and Fallujah” – In 2004, America fought the two deadliest battles of the Iraq War: Najaf, in the south, against the Shiite Mahdi militia, and Fallujah, in the west, against Sunni insurgents. The words and deeds of those who fought there reveal the ground truth.
Only on Passport:
“Going to War”
“Independent Lens: Make Peace or Die: Honor the Fallen”
“Pearl Harbor – Into the Arizona”
“USS Indianapolis: The Final Chapter”
Tributes and Commemorative Events
“American Heart in WWI: A Carnegie Hall Tribute” – Experience this electrifying live theatrical event, created and narrated by historian John Monsky, that brings America’s World War I story to life through the lens of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s "The Great Gatsby," and a dynamic fusion of breathtaking music, powerful storytelling and unforgettable characters.
“Salute to Service: A Veterans Day Celebration 2025” – Country music legend Trace Adkins joins the U.S. Army Field Band to host "Salute to Service 2025: A Veterans Day Celebration." Featuring unforgettable performances by opera superstar Angel Blue, jazz vocalist Kurt Elling, and Trace Adkins himself.
Only on Passport:
“Salute to Service: A Veterans Day Celebration 2023”
“Salute to Service: A Veterans Day Celebration 2024”
HOW TO WATCH
Members who contribute a tax-deductible gift of at least $5 per month, or an annual gift of $60 or more, are eligible for Arkansas PBS Passport – an extended, on-demand library of your favorite PBS shows, films and specials.
As a reminder, you can watch anywhere, anytime on myarkansaspbs.org, or by using the PBS app, available on your TV, phone or tablet.