Celebs honor veterans at the National Memorial Day concert

A decade ago, longtime friends and avid military supporters Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise hosted the National Memorial Day Concert for the first time.

And their 10th anniversary on the show Sunday night was just as special as the first.

"Each year, Gary and I return to host this extraordinary event in honor of those who have sacrificed so much for our country," said Joe Mantegna during the National Memorial Day Concert.

"We are here for you and your families, thank you all so much for " said Gary Sinise.

Along with "American Idol" winner Nick Fradiani, Gloria Estefan, Laurence Fishburne and many other stars, Joe and Gary honored the millions of people who died in service of the United States of America.

"Oh, say can you see, by the dawn's early light," sang Nick Fradiani.

But the concert wasn't just about musical tributes. Several actors highlighted the stories of veterans who sacrificed their lives to protect our country.

We couldn't hold back tears during the moving event, and neither could many of the participants.

And those who couldn't attend the event in person at the national memorial in Washington, DC, showed their support on Twitter, saying it was a beautiful concert.

It was just as moving for the hosts. Joe told Zap2it, "When I arrived in Washington and took in the scope of just what this was, it changed my life in many ways. ... It transcended everything."

What a beautiful way to celebrate such bravery. Happy Memorial Day, everyone!

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