Gary Sinise has been in a lot of movies and television series, but I think it's pretty safe to say that his role at Lt. Dan Taylor in Forrest Gump is what he's most famous for.
Some actors might bristle at having fans so focused on a single role. However, Sinise doesn't just take it in stride; he leans into the good he can do through it.
Having lost both his legs, Lt. Dan spends his days angry and depressed.
Eventually, he even gets prosthetic legs.
He launched the Lt. Dan Band in 2003, which tours bases to entertain troops and lift their spirits.
Over time, the Gary Sinise Foundation has expanded its programs, building smart homes for disabled veterans, trauma counselling, education opportunities, and tons more.
Over the years, Sinise has supported families of fallen service members, providing funding to support programs and other services. Over time, that support grew, becoming an amazing undertaking.
Each December, the children of fallen service members and their surviving parent or guardians are treated to a free flight and five-day stay at Walt Disney World.
The five days contain a mix of theme park fun and inspiring, therapeutic events.
"By providing guilt-free fun and beneficial resources in a stress-free environment, we’re creating a community to learn, grow, and make lasting memories with new friends," says the program's description.
But you also need those moments of happiness to help you keep moving forward, especially for kids.
For more info on the Gary Sinise Foundation and its programs, be sure to visit their website.
