Known for his roles in Forrest Gump, Apolo 13, CSI: NY, and many more, it looks like Gary Sinise gave a lot to the public throughout the years. However, his best role is that of an incredible real-life humanitarian whose foundation has helped hundreds of families of fallen soldiers and military members.
Last year, the Gary Sinise Foundation flew around 1,700 people, including 1,000 children of soldiers who lost their life fighting for our country to an unforgettable trip to the magic land of Disney in Orlando, Florida.
The surprise trip was part of the program dubbed “Snowball Express” and involved 15 private planes. The children were able to enjoy the all expenses paid trip around the Holiday season.
The Snowball Express became part of the Gary Sinise Foundation in 2017. “We are committed to maintaining the wonderful traditions while finding new and exciting ways to serve our families of the fallen,” says the foundation.
What a sendoff for families as they board the Snowball Express! @INDairport -> Chicago -> Orlando for a special holiday trip in honor of their loved ones who died while serving our country. @GarySiniseFound @GarySinise @DoubleGee18 @WTHRcom #WTHRSunrise pic.twitter.com/ZWNAfnckBk
— Anna Carrera (@AnnaWTHR) 8 December 2018
“Each one of these children who are going on these airplanes have lost a parent in military services,” said Sinise. “…Either combat related or illness or unfortunately suicide sometimes. We wanna take care of these kids and make sure they know we don’t forget.”
What this man does for these families is simply incredible. Being a veteran himself, he knows what it takes to be part of the military and to put your life on the line every single day although you know your children, parents, spouse, are praying for you and waiting for you to come home safe and sound.
Gary Sinise Foundation’s Snowball Express 2018 at Walt Disney World in Orlando this year! A chance to heal, connect with other Gold Star families, and celebrate! 1,722 family members of our fallen heroes at the happiest place on earth. pic.twitter.com/zdE4gcEwiM
— GarySiniseFoundation (@GarySiniseFound) 10 December 2018
Jen Tringle witnessed the incredible moment the children who were taking the trip were greeted by the staff and the people present at the Nashville airport with an emotional rendition of the Star Spangled Banner.
Along with the video, she wrote. “Most every person standing around, myself included was bawling at the sight of these kids and spouses who have paid so great a price for our country. To see all of this at Christmas time was so humbling,” she said.
Sinise’s devotion is amazing and deserves our respect. You are an incredible man, Lieutenant Dan!
