PBS America at 250 - May 2026
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American Experience, Jimmy Carter
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Friday, May 1, at 9 PM
Revisit the life of the Georgia peanut farmer who rose to become our 39th president. The film traces his rapid ascent in politics, dramatic fall from grace, unexpected resurrection and post-presidential success as a humanitarian.
Courtmaker: John Marshall and the Forging of America’s Supreme Court
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Saturday, May 2, at 3 PM
Filmed across eleven states, COURTMAKER explores the life of the greatest judge in American history, John Marshall, who as the fourth Chief Justice, built the Supreme Court into the third pillar of American government. Through in-depth interviews with scholars, judges and Supreme Court justices, the film sheds light on our democracy’s foundational legal philosophies.
Stream COURTMAKER: JOHN MARSHALL AND THE FORGING OF AMERICA’S SUPREME COURT.
Great Performances, Suffs
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Friday, May 8, at 9 PM
Saturday, May 9, at 1:30 AM
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Sunday, May 10, at 5 PM
Tuesday, May 12, at 8 PM
Created by Tony-winner Shaina Taub, this musical, recorded from Broadway in December 2024, tells the story of the American suffragist movement and the remarkable friendships, heartbreak and action that brought women together — or, in some cases, tore them apart.
POV, Maya Lin: A Strong Clear Vision
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Friday, May 8, at 9 PM
In a powerful exploration of art, politics and creativity, the Oscar winning film highlights the story behind the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in DC, one of the era’s most controversial monuments. At age 21, Lin, an artist and architecture student, shot to global fame when her design was selected. Facing an onslaught of public attacks, she remained steadfast in her vision.
Shrapnel Down: My Korean War Story
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Friday, May 8, at 10:30 PM
Saturday, May 30, at 4:30 PM
In 1952, Gunner’s Mate Bill Rector was serving on the USS Los Angeles during the height of the Korean War. Using an 8mm camera, Bill documented his war experiences, including battles during the Blockade of Wonsan — the longest naval blockade in modern history.
Miles, Morale and Memories: Bob Hope and World War II
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Saturday, May 9, at 4 PM
Legendary entertainer Bob Hope and his troupe of performers traveled more than 80,000 miles during World War II to entertain the troops. There were several close calls where Hope and his fellow entertainers were almost killed. Hope and his troupe often performed near the frontlines in Europe and the Pacific as part of an overall Hollywood effort to make sure stars brought some of America to the battle zones. Using animated maps and interviews with Hollywood historians, authors, and combat veterans, MILES, MORALE AND MEMORIES: BOB HOPE AND WORLD WAR II examines Hope’s impact on World War II and why President Franklin D. Roosevelt asked some of Hollywood’s top radio and movie stars to hold a microphone instead of a gun in the war.
Stream MILES, MORALE AND MEMORIES: BOB HOPE AND WORLD WAR II.
Perfect 36: When Women Won the Vote
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Sunday, May 10, at 7:30 PM
PERFECT 36: WHEN WOMEN WON THE VOTE chronicles the dramatic vote to ratify this Amendment and the years of debate about women's suffrage that preceded it. In Tennessee, after two consecutive 48-48 outcomes to table the issue, it was put to a vote. At the last minute, 24-year-old representative swung his vote, making Tennessee the deciding 36th state to enable passage of the 19th Amendment.
Fighting for Lincoln: The Wide Awakes
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Sunday, May 10, at 11 PM
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Monday, May 11, at 8 PM
Saturday, May 16, at 1:30 PM
The Wide Awakes were a Republican para-military organization distinguished from other political clubs of the 19th century by their youth, effectiveness, and distinctive uniforms. Examine this group's history and their nationwide movement instrumental in electing Abraham Lincoln in 1860.
Unveiled: Daisy Bates and Johnny Cash
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Monday, May 11, at 9 PM
For more than a century, the U.S. Capitol’s National Statuary Hall had displayed two statues from each state, recognizing remarkable individuals whose achievements reflect and contribute to the nation’s collective identity. UNVEILED: DAISY BATES AND JOHNNY CASH follows the creation and installation of two new statues from Arkansas and celebrates the enduring legacies of two of the state’s most iconic figures. Daisy Bates, who courageously led the fight for civil rights, and Johnny Cash, whose music captured the soul of America, are now immortalized in bronze in the U.S. Capitol. This special explores the profound impact of their lives on history, from their humble beginnings to their lasting influence. Their statues stand as a tribute to their pivotal roles in shaping American culture and society.
The Eyes of the World: From D-Day to VE Day
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Friday, May 15, at 9 PM
Join historian John Monsky and host Katie Couric for a Veterans Day tribute. Broadway stars join The Boston Pops, conducted by Keith Lockhart, to tell the dramatic story of WWII's final months in Europe. Rare photographs and personal accounts from Ernest Hemingway, Robert Capa and photojournalist Lee Miller bring history to life in this unforgettable celebration of the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.
After Ike — A Journey That Changed America
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Sunday, May 17, at 2 PM
Saturday, May 23, at 1 PM
A century after the 1919 Transcontinental Military Convoy battled 3, 251 miles along the Lincoln Highway, this documentary retraces the grueling journey that shaped Dwight D. Eisenhower and the nation. Through resilience, innovation, and 62 days of obstacles, the expedition sparked a new era of American mobility and connectivity.
American Experience, Victory in the Pacific
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Monday, May 18, at 8 PM
In this provocative, thorough examination of the final months of the war, American Experience looks at the escalation of bloodletting from the vantage points of both the Japanese and the Americans.
American Masters, W.E.B. Du Bois: Rebel with a Cause
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Tuesday, May 19, at 9 PM
Wednesday, May 20, at 2 AM
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Saturday, May 23, at 3 PM
Friday, May 29, at 9 PM
Explore the life and legacy of notable Black scholar and civil rights pioneer W.E.B. Du Bois. From his birth, just five years after the Emancipation Proclamation; to his death, on the eve of the March on Washington in 1963, his legacy as an activist continues to resonate today.
This Moment in America: Artists in the Heartland
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Friday, May 22, at 10:30 PM
Saturday, May 23, at 3:30 AM
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Sunday, May 24, at 6:30 PM
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, this half-hour documentary offers an honest and compelling look at the American experience through the eyes of three dynamic artists living and working in Southwest Ohio. THIS MOMENT IN AMERICA: ARTISTS IN THE HEARTLAND offers an intimate, interwoven narrative that provides an absorbent, behind-the-scenes look at their creative process. Through their work, the film examines what it means to be an American today while contemplating where we go from here.
Marauder Men: In Their Own Words
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1)
Saturday, May 23, from 5-6:30 PM
This three-episode docuseries spotlights the Martin B-26 Marauder and the brave World War II pilots who flew the aircraft.In the 1990s, the B-26 Marauder Historical Society videotaped oral histories detailing the experiences of “Marauder Men,” the nickname claimed by Martin B-26 Marauder pilots in celebration of their camaraderie. This series offers an intimate look at that footage.
Memoirs of World War II
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Saturday, May 23, at 6:30 PM
Less than 3% of those who served during World War II are still alive today. Once they are gone, what will happen to the story of their sacrifice? Through personal accounts of real-life World War II veterans, this local program, dedicated to preserving the history and memories of those who served in the war, honors their sacrifice.
WW2: Women on the Frontline
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Sunday, May 24, at noon
Explore the daring and unknown histories of the remarkable women pilots, journalists, guerrillas and spies who fought, flew, and died in the Second World War as they defied expectations, overcame prejudices, and often outperformed their male counterparts. This series sheds light on some of the most perilous, courageous, and unwritten stories of the women who led the charge.
Veterans of America — Our Heroes in Uniform, Out of Our Brains, Not Out of Our Minds
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Sunday, May 24, at 2:30 PM
Monday, May, 25, at 2 AM
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, affects hundreds of thousands of veterans. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event. This 30-minute documentary, produced by Canton resident Ron Ponder, talks about some of the research and treatments of veterans and the general public of today.
Veterans of America — Our Heroes in Uniform, They Served Too
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Sunday, May 24, at 3 PM
The story of female veterans is as varied as the story of females in all walks of life. This 30-minute local production highlights many of the challenges and successes of area women in uniform. Examples include a young mother who now serves in the Army Reserve, a young couple who are both veterans, a female general and a nurse who is in the reserves. The show also speaks about Sharon Lane, a Canton resident who was the first female casualty of the Vietnam War. In addition, it touches on female veterans’ high rate of homelessness and how Summit County Executive Ilean Shapiro has gotten involved in helping homeless female veterans.
Waal River Crossing: 1944
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Sunday, May 24, at 3:30 PM
Wednesday, May 27, at 3 AM
Narrated by actor Paul Giamatti, WAAL RIVER CROSSING: 1944 is an hour-long documentary that reveals the story behind one of World War II's most heroic missions. The paratroopers of the 82nd Airborne Division were given a suicide mission: to cross one of Europe's largest and fastest-flowing rivers in broad daylight under the watchful eye of their German adversaries. They were outmanned and outgunned, but somehow the American paratroopers were able to complete their mission and wrestle two bridges away from German troops in Holland. WAAL RIVER CROSSING: 1944 tells the story of the mission in intimate detail through archival footage and interviews that celebrate the incredible bravery displayed by the soldiers involved.
O Freedom! The Musical Saga of Mary Pleasant
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Sunday, May 24, at 4 PM
A moving documentary musical that unfolds the life of civil rights icon Mary Ellen Pleasant. Susheel Bibbs’ live, one-woman performance in word and song uses Pleasant’s own words, landmark research, music of the times, an intermission interview and archival visuals to reveal a woman of mystery and power. Featuring Jacqueline Hairston (piano), Pope Flyne (drums) and MET opera star Raehann Bryce-Davis (host).
Remember Pearl Harbor
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Sunday, May 24, at 4:30 PM
Narrated by veteran Hollywood actor Tom Selleck, REMEMBER PEARL HARBOR chronicles the personal stories of veterans and citizens who witnessed the surprise attack by the Japanese on the American Pacific Fleet on December 7, 1941, launching the United States into World War II.Using archival footage and photos and graphics, the documentary shows in detail the bombings on Oahu, along with the fiery explosion of the USS Arizona, the sinking of the USS Oklahoma, and the attacks on Hickam Field, as well as on other parts of the island.
National Memorial Day Concert 2026
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Sunday, May 24, at 8 & 9:30 PM
Monday, May 25, at 12:30 AM
America’s national night of remembrance hosted by Tony Award-winner Joe Mantegna and Emmy Award-winner Gary Sinise airs live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, honors the courage and sacrifice of our military men and women, their families, and pays tribute to all who have given their lives in service to our nation. The evening will feature powerful storytelling and musical salutes featuring world-renowned artists with the National Symphony Orchestra, and a special commemoration of the country’s 250th Anniversary highlighting the all-volunteer force that won our independence in the American Revolution.
Remember Us: The Fight for America’s World War I Memorial In Washington D.C.
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Monday, May 25, at 8 PM
Told exclusively through the words of the project’s visionaries, leaders, artisans and champions who made “the impossible plausible,” is the remarkable story of America’s new national World War I Memorial — an exceptional vision brought to life by a diverse coalition of Americans who overcame all odds to deliver a stunning achievement a full century after the War That Changed the World.
Stream REMEMBER US: THE FIGHT FOR AMERICA’S WORLD WAR I MEMORIAL IN WASHINGTON D.C.
Omaha Beach: Honor and Sacrifice
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Monday, May 25, at 9 PM
Seven decades after the “Boys of Omaha Beach” landed in Normandy, veterans and soldiers return seeking closure as they enter the final years of their lives. The very personal stories of several veterans are shared as they return to Omaha Beach and witness the legacy of their acts of courage and determination on June 6, 1944.
Pearl Harbor — Into the Arizona
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Monday, May 25, at 10 PM
Tuesday, May 26, at 3 AM
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.
Celebrating America 250: Made with Love
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Saturday, May 30, at 11:30 AM
Explore America’s founding spirit through the works of modern artisans keeping traditions alive. From boatbuilders to blacksmiths to a glassblower remaking the ancient art, these creators illustrate the many cultures that built this country. A commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the series crisscrosses the country to profile these dedicated artisans.
Women of World War II: More Untold Stories
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Sunday, May 21, at 9 AM
Meet the American women who built the planes and flew them, fought on the warfront and the home front, cracked codes and broke barriers. The “secret weapon” that helped win the war, they forever changed the world in the process. History comes alive with newly-rediscovered interviews and rarely seen archival footage.
