Gary Sinise Recalls Honorary Marine Status for Veterans Work: ‘Humbled’
By Movieguide® Contributor
Gary Sinise recently commemorated the 10th anniversary since he was named an honorary U.S. Marine due to his foundation’s work with veterans.
An Instagram post shared some of Sinise’s thoughts on the honor.
“This was one of the most extraordinary nights…I was totally surprised by what the general gave me tonight. I’m humbled, shocked, moved, and motivated to keep standing up for our men and women and giving back to them,” Sinise said.
General James F. Amos added, “There is little I can say to enhance the rich reputation Gary Sinise has earned, both in the spotlight as an immensely talented actor, and less conspicuously as a tireless advocate for our men and women in uniform.”
“What I can do, what I am privileged and proud to do, is to recognize this humble patriot’s selfless service by making him an Honorary Marine,” Amos said.
Although Sinise never served in the military, service members hold a special place in his heart. His foundation website shares that Sinise developed a desire to help service members after 9/11.
“After the tragic events of September 11, 2001, I began devoting much of my time supporting the men and women who were deploying in response to those attacks—the brave service members who, each day, protect our cities and defend our great country,” the actor shared.
“Having veterans in my own family and having been involved with supporting our military veterans going back to the 80’s and 90’s, it was after that terrible day I decided to become much more active in devoting my time and resources to serving our defenders however and wherever I could,” Sinise explained.
Along with his own foundation, he has also worked with other organizations.
“I found it my mission to do all I could to support our wounded heroes and their families. And by getting involved with many other veterans initiatives, I began to support the children of the fallen, Gold and Blue Star Families, and wherever I could serve and honor a need within the military, veteran and first responder communities,” he said.
Years later, the actor continues to serve and help those in the military and first responders.
“At the Gary Sinise Foundation, we serve our nation by honoring our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need. We do this by creating and supporting unique programs designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen, and build communities,” the foundation’s website reveals.
Movieguide® previously reported on Sinise:
This holiday season, Gary Sinise expressed his gratitude for America’s servicemen and women.
“Supporting our nation’s heroes is my lifelong mission and I will continue to serve it faithfully,” Sinise shared. “It’s an honor to be recognized and the best part is that I get to, in turn, shine a light and recognize the true heroes who serve our country.”
In 2011, Sinise launched the Gary Sinise Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides support and fundraising for veterans.
“The mission of the Gary Sinise Foundation is broad, and this is a reflection of the needs I’ve seen over the many years supporting so many amazing organizations,” the actor explained. “And the Foundation’s mission is designed to also give us the freedom and flexibility to adapt to the ever-changing needs of our veterans, first responders, and the families who sacrifice alongside them.”
