By Mallory Mattingly
As part of the annual Soaring Valor event, actor Gary Sinise’s foundation brought World War II veterans to the WWII Museum in New Orleans, a memorable time for everyone involved.
“The heroes are paired with high school students, the same age many of them were when they first served, so their stories and sacrifices can be passed on to the next generation firsthand,” the foundation wrote in a post on Instagram.
The WWII veterans’ service was honored with gifts, love and laughter throughout the whole event, and they shared some of their experiences with those in attendance.
The Gary Sinise Foundation created Soaring Valor to bring “World War II veterans and their guardians to New Orleans to tour The National WWII Museum built in their honor.”
Related: Gary Sinise Advocates for ‘Struggling’ Vets Who Served After 9/11
“Our WWII veterans fought to save the world from tyranny,” the foundation continues. “The freedom we know today is thanks to their bravery and valor. They taught us the true meaning of patriotism and we remain forever grateful for their sacrifices.”
“Drafted into service at just 18 years old, Meyer departed on St. Patrick’s Day in 1943 for training that would take him to Florida, Massachusetts, and Colorado,” the museum shared. “As a Corporal in the 485th Fighter Squadron, 370th Fighter Group, Ninth Air Force, Meyer was stationed in Britain, Belgium, France, and Germany. Additionally, in a ceremony at the Museum last year, Meyer was named a Chevalier of the French National Order of the Legion of Honor.”
The Gary Sinse Foundation’s work focusing on serving vets and first responders wouldn’t be possible without the former military personal and military family members who have stepped up to help run the organization.
“From the very beginning one of my hopes in creating the Gary Sinise Foundation was to build a rallying point, a place where anyone, whether they had worn the uniform or not, could come together in support of those who have,” Sinise wrote in an Aug. 1 blog post. “I wanted to create more than just a nonprofit; I wanted to create a trusted resource for those who believe in honoring our defenders and caring for the families who sacrifice alongside them.”
“Over the years, it’s been incredibly meaningful to see that vision take shape, not just through the generous support of our donors and partners, but through the people who have chosen to serve as a part of the Foundation itself,” he continued. “Many of our team members are veterans, first responders, or the family members of those who have served. They know this life, they’ve lived it, and they’ve brought that same spirit of service into their work here.”
Some of those people include Barbara Titus, a U.S. military daughter and sister; Colleen Murphy, a U.S. Army spouse; Cristin Kampsnider, U.S. Marine Corps; Jim Ravella, U.S. Air Force; Regina Sather, U.S. Marine Corps spouse; and Travis Reynders, U.S. Marine Corps.
“This has always been a part of the mission, to give those with firsthand experience a place to continue serving and to turn their deep understanding and passion into meaningful impact for others,” Sinise said.
Sinise and his foundation’s work ensure that future generations will never forget the service and sacrifice that gave us the freedoms we enjoy today.
Read Next: The Gary Sinise Foundation Honors WWII Veterans’ At The National WWII Museum
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