WASHINGTON (WUSA9) -- Actor Gary Sinise was honored for his service to our military on Tuesday night. Sinise received the America Leadership award from the NAB Education Foundation.
First, Sinise appeared on Tuesday morning at a National Press Club breakfast and delivered a powerful speech regarding veterans. Our Andrea McCarren live tweeted the event.
Sinise talked about the importance of non-profits to support the military because "government alone can't possibly fill all the needs." In a room packed with veterans, Sinise received a standing ovation.
He talked about the four-year history of the Gary Sinise Foundation, which has built smart homes for four quadruple amputees and 35 homes for veterans with life-changing injuries. In addition, the Lt. Dan Band -- named after the double-amputee Vietnam-era soldier he portrayed in "Forrest Gump -- has performed 318 concerts worldwide for the USO and others to benefit veterans, according to Sinise.
Sinise spoke of the "startling shortfalls" regarding care of veterans and the "emotional trauma at epidemic proportions." According to Sinise, 22 Americans take their lives every day. " Physical injuries compound emotional damage," said Sinise.
The actor pushed for stronger connections between local citizens, veterans and their families. "As citizens who benefit from what they do for us, it is our duty," said Sinise. He assured the audience that if everyone worked together that problems for veterans could be reduced in this country.
"We need to keep our military strong. They are our freedom providers. We often take freedom for granted," stated Sinise.
Sinise also stressed the importance of the Medal Of Honor Museum in Mt. Pleasant, SC. For information on the Medal of Honor museum:, visit http://mohmuseum.org
