Gary Sinese has undertaken numerous military-affiliated activities since his portrayal of Lt. Dan Taylor in “Forrest Gump” nearly 20 years ago.
One of the most high profile things that Sinese took on was the establishment of a musical group named after his character in the movie — the Lt. Dan Band.
On Sunday afternoon, the band performed at Fort Huachuca on the post’s Warrior/Sentinel Field. Before going on stage Gary Sinese spoke with the Herald/Review about his interest in the military.
It all started after his role in the movie ” Forrest Gump “, where he played an officer who became a double amputee while serving in Vietnam.
“I’ve been a supporter of the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) for 20 years,” he said.
Although Sinese never actually served in the military himself, he said that his father was in the Navy and two of his uncles served during World War II. His grandfather served in the Navy during World War I.
Sinise added, “I do it to support those on active duty.”
His appreciation extends beyond just saying thanks. Gary also does things to ensure those who have served, have been wounded or need help — to include their families — are provided with what they need.
So he established the Gary Sinise Foundation as part of his commitment to help veterans and their families.
His band — in which he plays bass guitar — has traveled to war zones, making two trips to Afghanistan and six to Iraq, as well as to other sites, bringing entertainment to U.S. forces around the nation and globe.
Since his first portrayal of a wounded soldier to now, Sinise has continued to grow his appreciation for soldiers, Marines, sailors, airmen and others. Sinise said, “It’s part of my life.”
Sinese understands that the nation is going though an economically difficult time , but he feels that those who make decisions must ensure the nation’s defense capabilities are not cut. “Find waste and fraud, but we can’t cut back the military,” he said.
Gary Sinise’s belief when it comes to the nation’s military can be summed up in three words: “Keep it strong.”