A Journey from Screen to Service: Gary Sinise’s Magical Mission for Military Kids

When we think of Lieutenant Dan, the first image that springs to mind is Gary Sinise’s unforgettable performance in Forrest Gump. But off‑screen, Sinise has taken on an even more heroic role—one that’s transforming grief into joy for children who’ve lost a parent in the U.S. military.

From Hollywood to Heartfelt Action

In 2012, Sinise founded the Gary Sinise Foundation with a simple yet powerful mission: to “honor our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need.” Over the years, the foundation has grown to support a staggering array of programs, but one in particular shines with childlike wonder: Snowball Express.

Snowball Express is a five‑day Orlando getaway designed specifically for kids who’ve experienced the unthinkable loss of a parent in service to our country. And thanks to the Gary Sinise Foundation, more than 1,000 children (along with their surviving parents) have traded heartbreak for happiness—aboard chartered flights, at Disneyland, and beyond, all at no cost to their families.

A Disney Dream Come True

Picture this: a group of wide‑eyed children and their parents stepping off a plane in Orlando, Florida, greeted by a sea of volunteers wearing bright Snowball Express T‑shirts. Over the next five days, these families experience:

• Magical Park Days: Thrilling rides, character meet‑and‑greets, and fireworks that light up more than just the night sky—sparking laughter, smiles, and priceless memories.

• Shared Stories & New Friendships: Camp‑style activities where kids bond over similar losses, realizing they’re not alone and forging friendships that extend far beyond the trip.

• Moments of Tribute: Each family receives a “We Remember” pin, and 600 American flags stand at attention, honoring every soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice.

For many children, this isn’t just a vacation—it’s the first time in months (or years) they’ve felt truly carefree.

More Than a Trip: A Message of Hope

Reflecting on the program, Gary Sinise says, “We can never do enough to thank our heroes, but we can always do more.”

He’s not talking about red carpets or awards. He’s talking about giving these families the gift of hope—showing them that their loved one’s service hasn’t gone unnoticed, and that a community stands beside them in both grief and gratitude.

The Ripple Effect of Kindness

Snowball Express ripples far beyond the theme‑park gates. Parents report seeing their children’s confidence grow, watching siblings bond over shared experiences, and feeling a renewed sense of community support. Social workers and counselors on site help families process their loss in a safe, uplifting environment—proving that even in the darkest times, joy can break through.

Gary Sinise doesn’t plan to stop here. With every child who boards that plane, he reinforces a powerful truth: our nation’s debt to its defenders extends to their families, and honoring that debt means stepping up—with time, resources, and unwavering compassion.

So the next time you watch Forrest Gump and see Lieutenant Dan, remember the man behind the role—a real‑life hero who turned Hollywood’s spotlight into a beacon of hope for military kids everywhere.