Actor Gary Sinise gave honor to US soldiers who died in combat by giving their family members a five-day trip to Disney World.
The Academy Award nominated actor is known for his role in Forrest Gump, Apollo 13, The Green Mile, and CSI:NY. But he is also known for his big heart and Christian faith. Gary Sinise has worked for years to honor men and women in the military, especially soldiers who’ve died in combat and their families. Because of this, he has partnered with Disabled American Veterans, USO tours, and created the Lt. Dan Band.
Facebook | Snowball Express
The Foundation
In 2006, the actor founded an organization called Gary Sinise Foundation’s Snowball Express. His role as “Lt. Dan”, a Vietnam veteran, in the movie “Forrest Gump” inspired him to create the foundation. It started when the foundation granted a fallen soldier’s wish to bring his kids to Disney World, according to a local news outlet. Since then, they have been serving the families of fallen soldiers. And this year marks the Snowball Express’ 14 years of service.
Photo | American Airlines Newsroom
Also recently, Gary brought 1,750 family members on a five-day trip to Disney World again.
“The important ingredient is that these kids meet each other and they know they’re not alone,” Gary said. “They make friendships that last a lifetime.”
The foundation took the families from over 87 cities to the “most magical place on Earth”. Because they believe that it is a crucial part of a family’s healing process.
“I’ve gotten to know a lot of these families. I love them and I want to just do something to help them through,” Gary explained.
Photo | ABC7 San Francisco
Families’ tribute to Gary Sinise
Moreover, because of his passion to treat U.S. troops with such esteem, celebrities and recipients expressed their gratitude to Gary. The foundation gave him an emotional video from these people, thanking him for his unrelenting support.
“Thank you for all the things you have done for our men and women who have served our nation,” a retired four-star Army Gen. Colin Powell said in the video.
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Then he added, “Not only what you’ve done for them but for their children, what you’ve done for their families, what you’ve done to help them rebuild their lives.”
According to Christian Headlines, the celebrities in the video include Tim Allen, Jay Leno, Patricia Heaton, Robert DeNiro and Tom Hanks.
Source: Christian Headlines