Gary Sinise Foundation

Here’s another of our favorite moments from Season 1 of the Gary Sinise Foundation Podcast, in honor of Mac Sinise. Today we’re highlighting Cristin’s conversation with Medal of Honor recipient and real-life inspiration for Forrest Gump, U.S. Army SFC Sammy Davis, and his wife, Dixie. Not only did Sammy’s heroic actions inspire the beloved film character, but the actual footage from his Medal of Honor ceremony was used in the iconic scene where Forrest receives his own medal. Click here, bit.ly/podcastgsf to watch the full episode and hear more about Sammy’s incredible story of bravery and valor, as well as the inspiring work he and Dixie continue to do today, or stream it wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!

This #WarriorWednesday, we recognize Army Sgt. Mary Ehiarinmwian, who proved that the call to serve doesn’t stop when the uniform comes off. While driving to physical therapy in 2020, she witnessed a horrific accident as the car in front of her lost control, flipped through the air, and crashed upside down through a security gate. Without hesitation, she rushed to the wreckage, pulled the driver, a fellow soldier, from the smoking vehicle, and ensured they were safe until paramedics arrived. “I felt like the car was going to burst into flames,” said Ehiarinmwain. “But at the time, I didn’t think of the danger.” Her only thought was helping someone in need. For her incredible bravery and instinct to protect others, Sgt. Ehiarinmwian was named the USO Soldier of the Year in 2020. A true example of selfless service! 💪🇺🇸

This past week, our team had the privilege of #ServingHeroes at the LAFD Incident Command for Pacific Palisades. These incredible first responders worked around the clock to protect lives and communities from the devastating fires. Gary Sinise was joined by Joe Mantegna and John Ondrasik to show appreciation for the firefighters, law enforcement, National Guard, and emergency personnel on the front lines. To all the brave men and women answering the call—thank you. We are grateful for you! 🙌🔥

Sergeant Major Matthew O. Williams displayed extraordinary bravery and selflessness on April 6, 2008, while serving as a Weapons Sergeant with Special Forces Operational Detachment Alpha 3336 in Afghanistan. Under intense enemy fire, he led a counterattack across an icy valley, fought up a terraced mountainside to reinforce his pinned-down teammates, and repeatedly exposed himself to danger to rescue the wounded. Even as the casualty collection point came under attack, he led a counteroffensive that lasted for hours, ensuring his team’s survival. Because of his unwavering courage, four critically wounded soldiers were evacuated safely, and his unit was not overrun. His actions embody the highest traditions of military service and heroism. We will never forget. #MedalofHonorMonday

Amidst the devastation of the California fires, one four-legged hero brought comfort where it was needed most. Jack, an 11-year-old Golden Retriever, served alongside Pasadena Fire Department volunteer chaplain Victor Laveaga, greeting exhausted firefighters and displaced families at evacuation centers. For first responders who had worked 20 to 30 hours straight, a moment with Jack provided a much-needed break—easing stress, lifting spirits, and helping them process the challenges they faced on the fire lines. Laveanga shared, "There was one firefighter, his face was dirty with soot, the white of the eye was red from all the soot that was in the air - he came over and petted Jack, then walked away and a few minutes later he came back -- got down on his knee to hug Jack around the neck. That firefighter overcoming extreme obstacles to protect lives and property—they’re the heroes.” A simple moment of connection made all the difference. Thank you Jack for all you do! ❤️🐶 #ServiceDogSaturday

It's here! 🎶 Resurrection and Revival: Part Two is now available to stream digitally! To celebrate, enjoy this special video of Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band performing "Quasi Love," one of the incredible tracks off the album. This project holds a deep meaning for Gary, as it features music written and composed by his late son, McCanna Anthony "Mac" Sinise. 💙 Click here to purchase your copy, https://bit.ly/40pjfsv, or stream it now wherever you listen to music! 🎧 #ResurrectionAndRevival

This #WarriorWednesday we want to thank U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal John "JT" Doody and celebrate his Walls of Honor ceremony! 🇺🇸 We are deeply grateful to our national and local partners, as well as the amazing local community, for coming together to support this hero. The messages of love, gratitude, and encouragement written on the walls make this home even more special and serve of a reminder of our nation's thanks and commitment to never forget JT's sacrifice. We can’t wait to see the completed home for JT and his mom and look forward to welcoming them home soon! To learn more about JT's incredible journey, please click here: https://bit.ly/JTDOODY 🏠💙

🎶 We’re thrilled to announce that Resurrection and Revival: Part Two will be available to stream starting this Friday, Jan. 31! 🎧 This album shares more incredible music created by Gary's late son, McCanna Anthony "Mac" Sinise, and is a beautiful tribute to his creativity and passion. To order a physical copy, visit https://bit.ly/40pjfsv. As per Mac's heartfelt wishes, all proceeds will go toward the Gary Sinise Foundation to support our nation’s defenders and their families. 💙

For this week’s #ServiceDogSaturday, we honor Layka, a true K-9 hero whose bravery and sacrifice saved countless lives. In May 2012, while serving in Afghanistan, Layka, was sent into an enemy compound to secure the area and search for explosives. Despite being shot four times by an AK-47, she subdued the combatant while protecting her handler, U.S. Army Ranger Julian McDonald. Despite immediate medical assistance, Layka's injuries led to the loss of her right leg. Her incredible story of loyalty and courage has inspired many, even serving as an influence for the movie Dog, starring Channing Tatum. Layka has been celebrated with numerous awards, including: 🐾 A Medal of Heroism from the 341st Training Squadron, 33rd Fighter Wing 🐾 A portrait feature on the cover of National Geographic in 2014 🐾 A spotlight in the American Humane Hero Dog Awards in 2016 🐾 A recent honor from the Daughters of American Colonists at The National WWII Museum in 2023 Layka is a reminder of the profound bond between K-9 heroes and their handlers. Thank you, Layka, for your extraordinary service. 🐾💙

Today, we’re proud to spotlight Johnson County Rescue and EMS in East Tennessee! Covering 303 square miles of rugged terrain, this dedicated team serves their community with unwavering commitment to emergency care and rescue operations. Thanks to one of our First Responder Outreach grants, this department received essential updates to their rope rescue equipment, including harnesses, helmets, carabiners, descenders, and more. This critical gear allows them to safely and efficiently perform rope rescues; a growing need in their challenging landscape. We’re honored to support the lifesaving work of Johnson County Rescue and EMS. Thank you for all you do! 💙