As a country, especially in our youth, we collectively put way too much stock into the opinions of celebrities. Sure, they talk a big game, but it's usually all for show. That's not the case with Gary Sinise. He's dedicated his life to doing what he can for those who serve this country and our communities.

As the story goes, in his prep for his role as Lt. Dan in "Forrest Gump," he discovered just what our troops have gone through, and decided to jump into veterans advocacy... but that's not the entire story.

It's true that the people he met during that role really helped create the man he is today, but in all honesty, he's been doing everything he can for military and civil service families since before his most memorable role. It wasn't until after Forrest Gump that he was able to put together The Gary Sinise Foundation, which helped organize his efforts. And the biggest thing is, he doesn't do this for glory or some narcissistic sense of self entitlement. Gary Sinise serves those who serve us because it's the right thing to do.

The Gary Sinise Foundation is one of only a handful of organizations with a perfect score. Over 90% of the money raised is spent directly on those they're trying to help. Whether that's building homes that accommodate battle wounds, raising funds for those in need, or even playing 100% free concerts across military posts and bases worldwide. The man is a legend.

This video was made as a surprise for him. As he never seeks attention for his efforts, he doesn't get feedback much beyond a private 'Thank You' from those he helps.

From the video description:

Our founder, Gary Sinise, has spent the last four decades supporting our active duty service men and women, veterans, first responders, their families and caregivers, and those in need. It's this commitment that he considers his true calling in life. And the reason that he’s written his memoir, GRATEFUL AMERICAN: A JOURNEY FROM SELF TO SERVICE, hoping to inspire others to find their true purpose through service to others.

 

In honor of his commitment, our CEO, General Robin Rand, made a surprise video for Gary with General Colin Powell, Tom Hanks, Jay Leno, Robin Roberts, Ron Howard, Rob Lowe, Robert DeNiro, Maria Shriver, Tim Allen, Steve Buscemi, Joe Mantegna, Kristin Chenoweth, Richard Rawlings, Judd Apatow, Mayim Bialik, Sela Ward, Tim Allen, Aaron Eckhart, Iliza Shlesinger, Jeff Perry, Donal Logue and Kellie Pickler along with our heroes from the military, first responders, Medal of Honor recipients, Gold Star families and the USO, all expressing their gratitude to Gary’s for his humanitarian work, hoping to inspire people to give back.

 

This was a complete surprise to Gary, everyone’s gift to him, revealed for the first time this morning online and on social media….and we’d love for you to take part and help us spread the goodwill!

 

After watching, share the video on your social media along with a comment or video expressing why you are #GratefulLikeGary for the kindness and dedication of someone in your life.

 

With Gratitude,

 

All of us at the Gary Sinise Foundation

 

Opportunity presents itself everyday. So when you get the chance, be a Gary Sinise.

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