Gary Sinise makes a return visit to American Warrior Radio to share updates on his foundation and a very special initiative to honor the legacy of his son Mac. The Gary Sinise Foundation is one of the most effective and respected non-profit organizations working to support military and first responder families. Since their inception in 2011 they have raised over $500 million in support of these communities.
We begin by introducing listeners to Gary’s “why”. It began when he took over as the artistic director of the Steppenwolf Theatre in the 1980’s. He had a number of Vietnam Veterans in his family and they made a profound impression on him. Gary decided to look for a play that would speak to the Vietnam Veteran experience. He found a play named “Tracers”, written and performed by Vietnam Veterans. Gary eventually convinced them to allow him to produce and perform the play. He took his cast to visit with Vietnam Veterans and even put them through a “bootcamp” so they could play the roles appropriately. This inspired him to get actively engaged in supporting Vietnam Veterans in Chicago.
When it comes to our military and first responders, Gary says “We can always do more.” In his book he has a chapter titled “Turning Point” where he describes how the 9/11 attacks inspired him to do more by creating the Gary Sinise Foundation. He says he didn’t want those serving in the Global War on Terror to fall between the cracks like happened to Vietnam Veterans.
Gary’s son Mac was a very talented musician and composer. In the final days of his battle against a rare form of cancer, he decided to record some of his music. The result was an album titled “Resurrection and Revival”. It is a moving compilation of some of Mac’s compositions and favorites. A “Resurrection and Revival Part Two” album has also been released.
Both may be purchased at the Gary Sinise Foundation website with 100 % of the proceeds benefiting the Foundation.