MAYPORT, Fla. — Award-winning actor Gary Sinise, known for his roles in Forrest Gump and Apollo 13, spoke with WOKV’s Chase Bunker at Naval Station Mayport on Friday, October 16, about his work supporting veterans, his memories of September 11, and his passion for giving back to military families.
Sinise visited the naval station with his Lt. Dan Band for a performance honoring military members and their families.
During the interview, Sinise shared how his connection to the military began long before his Hollywood career.
Several members of his family served in the Vietnam War, including two of his wife’s brothers. Their service inspired him to start supporting veterans in the 1970s and 1980s.
His role as Lieutenant Dan in Forrest Gump also helped him connect with wounded veterans.
However, Sinise said the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks changed his life.
“That really had a profound impact on me,” Sinise told Bunker.
Sinise remembered watching the attacks on television while he was in California. He had plans to play golf that morning but said he was too upset to continue.
After the attacks, he wanted to do something to help.
He contacted the United Service Organizations (USO) and began visiting American troops. Over the years, he completed 100 USO tours.
Today, he continues supporting veterans, first responders, and military families through the Gary Sinise Foundation.
“I just feel it’s important to make sure our men and women know that they’re appreciated,” Sinise said.
Performing for military members at Mayport
Sinise’s visit to Naval Station Mayport included a performance with his Lt. Dan Band.
The concert was sponsored by the Gary Sinise Foundation, which has organized hundreds of shows and events for military members over the years.
Sinise said these performances are one way to thank the men and women who serve the country.
He also spoke about the importance of making sure military families know they are not forgotten.
Helping children overseas
During the interview, Sinise also shared a story about visiting American troops in Iraq.
He remembered seeing soldiers who had helped rebuild a school for Iraqi children. When he visited the school, he noticed the children had very few supplies.
After returning home, he started Operation Iraqi Children, a program that sent school supplies to American troops so they could give them to children.
The program later expanded to other countries, including Afghanistan and Haiti.
Sinise said former President George W. Bush recognized his volunteer work during a ceremony at the White House.
Although Sinise has received awards for his acting career, including an Emmy, he said receiving recognition for helping others was also meaningful.
A new book coming in November
Before ending the interview, Sinise told Bunker about his new book, Graceful Warrior, scheduled for release on November 10.
He also discussed his earlier book, Grateful American, which shares stories about his acting career and his work with the military.
For more information about his foundation and its programs, visit GarySiniseFoundation.org.
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