Gary Sinise, Actor, Director, Veterans Advocate

While not a veteran himself, actor and director Gary Sinise is now synonymous with devotion to our active duty military, our veterans, and their families.

Sinise turned 18 years old shortly after the U.S. withdrawal of forces from Vietnam. However, hearing the stories of service in Vietnam from his wife's brothers instilled a deep appreciation for those who served and a desire to help them - especially those who struggled after coming home to a hostile public and had difficulty returning to civilian life.

That passion grew even more after Sinise was cast as "Lieutenant Dan" in the movie "Forrest Gump". He describes going through training for the role and connecting deeply with the arc of Lieutenant Dan's story - from a proud officer to a double amputee spiraling out of control to recovery in both his personal and professional lives.

Sinise also walks us through how "Forrest Gump" led to the creation of the Lieutenart Dan Band, which played countless shows for troops at home and abroad. He tells us how his work with the band eventually led him to co-host the National Memorial Day Concert at the U.S. Capitol. And he shares how his work serving military and veteran families prompted the creation of the Gary Sinise Foundation, which is extremely active in serving our heroes in many way throughout the year.

Don't miss this conversation with one of the military community's most steadfast friends.