Kurt Andersen recalls Gene Shalit as his first boss in 1976, praising the goofball–style NBC Today movie critic for his warmth, wit, and mentorship; Shalit, who died at 100, remains a formative influence on Andersen and a memorable figure in entertainment journalism.
After a call from a veterans' advocate, about 1,500 people gathered in Massachusetts for the Catholic Mass funeral of World War II Navy veteran John Bernard Arnold III, who had no immediate family. The ceremony included four veterans saluting his casket, a poignant reflection on Arnold’s life (love of classical music, chocolate cake, and Grey’s Anatomy), bagpipes, and a gun salute. The flag from his casket was given to the veterans home that cared for him, and his great-nephew Joe Durban later flew in to receive the flag and visit Arnold’s grave, turning a solitary burial into a large-scale act of remembrance.
Europe marked International Holocaust Memorial Day with ceremonies from Auschwitz to Berlin as survivors and leaders warned against forgetting Nazi crimes and confronting rising antisemitism; Tova Friedman will address the Bundestag and challenge the far-right AfD, while memorials, Stolpersteine, and Holocaust education efforts spread across Europe amid concerns about AI-generated misinformation and threats to democracy. With about 1.1 million Jews killed at Auschwitz and roughly 196,600 survivors remaining worldwide, officials noted vandalism at Kiel and urged civil courage to defend democratic values.
Thousands across the United States marked Martin Luther King Jr. Day with marches, wreath-laying ceremonies and commemorative services, reflecting the federal holiday’s nationwide observance.
The article describes a memorial ceremony in Ypres, Belgium, commemorating the end of WWI, while highlighting ongoing global conflicts and the lessons learned from history, emphasizing the persistent cycle of war and the importance of remembrance.
Kate Middleton attended the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall with her son Prince George, channeling Princess Diana's style, marking Prince George's first appearance at a Remembrance event, and highlighting royal family engagements amidst commemorations of military history and progress in social issues.
Prince Harry reflects on the meaning of remembrance, emphasizing the importance of honoring those who serve and have served, recognizing their resilience, and advocating for lifelong support and respect for military families, especially amidst a fragile global peace.
The article commemorates the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks with ceremonies across the U.S., honoring nearly 3,000 victims, including at the World Trade Center, Pentagon, and Shanksville, Pennsylvania, amidst heightened security and ongoing national reflection.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla commemorated the 80th anniversary of VJ Day with a remembrance service honoring WWII veterans, highlighting their courage and sacrifice, and reflecting on the enduring impact of the war, including the suffering of prisoners and civilians, with ceremonies across the UK and abroad.
Eighty years after VJ Day, UK leaders and veterans commemorated the end of WWII with a solemn ceremony at the National Memorial Arboretum, including tributes, flypasts, and reflections on the cost of freedom, while similar events took place globally, highlighting the enduring significance of remembrance.
Europe and the UK observed Armistice Day with two minutes of silence to commemorate those who died in World War One and subsequent conflicts. Events were held across the UK, including a ceremony at the National Memorial Arboretum led by the Duchess of Edinburgh. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer participated in a wreath-laying ceremony in Paris. In Belfast, a protest emerged against Sinn Féin's Michelle O'Neill for attending a Remembrance Day service, marking a historic participation by a senior party figure.
Kate Middleton and Prince William became emotional during the Festival of Remembrance at Royal Albert Hall, as a hymn played that was significant to Princess Diana's memory. The couple, along with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, have used "Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer" in their weddings to honor Diana. Kate also paid tribute to the late princess by wearing her pearl earrings and a black coat dress, further honoring Diana's legacy during the event.
Scott Semans reflects on his sister Heather's organ donation nine years after her unexpected hospitalization and subsequent passing. Heather's liver went to a man in need, providing closure for the family. The number of deceased donors and lifesaving transplants in the United States has been increasing, but over 100,000 people remain on the national transplant waiting list. Semans participates in a 5K to support transplant recipients and encourages others to consider organ donation, emphasizing the profound impact it can have.
South Korea is commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Sewol ferry tragedy with memorial events across the country, including an offshore ceremony near Jindo Island and a cultural festival at Mokpo New Port. Other ceremonies will be held at locations such as Incheon Family Park and Daejeon National Cemetery. The National Human Rights Commission emphasized the need for institutional improvements to prevent similar disasters in the future.
The cast of "Gen V" issued a joint statement in remembrance of their co-star Chance Perdomo, who tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident at the age of 27. They shared heartfelt messages and memories of Perdomo, expressing shock and grief over his sudden loss. Production on Season 2 of "Gen V" has been delayed indefinitely as the cast and crew mourn the untimely death of their beloved co-star.