Episode Details

Gary Sinise is an award-winning actor – most notably is his Oscar-nominated role of Lieutenant Dan in Forrest Gump. This role reshaped the trajectory of Gary's life; not because of the acclaim for the film, but because it ignited a relentless drive in him to champion veterans' sacrifices and ensure they're never forgotten.

Gary's philanthropy has made him a beloved to countless and earned him prestigious awards including: Presidential Citizens Medal, Honorary Battalion Chief by New York City Fire Department, George Catlett Marshall Medal by US Army and Honorary Marine.

Today, Gary joins us as part of his media tour for his book: Grateful American: A Journey from Self to Service. It's already a New York Times best seller and after hearing our conversation… you'll understand why.

Join us to for one of America's favorite, heart-led leaders. You'll get lessons on gratitude, service, celebrate America's defenders, veterans, first responders and so much more.

• His role as a gang member in his high school's production of West Side Story initiated his passion for acting.
• Steppenwolf Theatre Company was formed with his three friends in 1974, subsequently becoming the nation's premiere ensemble theatre.
• Of Mice and Men: Gary directed + starred in Of Mice and Men, fulfilling a life-long dream leading to his opportunity to audition for Forrest Gump.
• Forrest Gump: Gary had a deep affection to veterans his entire life and felt compelled to play Lieutenant Dan in Forrest Gump.
  • The scene with Lieutenant Dan shouting on top of the shrimp boat is pivotal because he's fighting his demons, overcoming guilt and PTSD from war, eventually allowing him to make peace. Making peace is something the Gary Sinise Foundation strives for all veterans.
• Turning point: The commitment to serve and honor veterans began before Forrest Gump. September 11th was an inflection point deepened that devotion.
• The Gary Sinise Foundation supports those who sacrifice on our behalf including active duty, veterans, first responders + their families. Learn more here.
• Get Gary Sinise's New York Times bestselling book Grateful American.
• I shared my essay on my dear friend and former US Navy SEAL Scott Wirtz. Read it here.

Listen to more Life Inspired Podcast episodes celebrating veterans with Rocky Sickmann from ep. #16 and Jim Lovell from ep. #90.

To shine light on veterans, Gary asked me to share responses to the Live Inspired 7 from past guests who served our country. Enjoy Captain Charlie Plumb, Vietnam Navy veteran