Gary Sines may not have a real-life military career, but his commitment to the armed forces has spanned multiple decades. This fall he will be formally recognized for his efforts by a prestigious U.S. military academy.
The West Point Association of Graduates announced on June 11 that Sines is the 2015 recipient of the Sylvanus Thayer Award. The award is the highest honor given by the association to a non-graduate and recognizes an outstanding citizen who exemplifies the West Point motto of "Duty, Honor, Country," the statement explained. Former recipients include Bob Hope, Neil Armstrong and, most recently, Condoleezza Rice.
Sines, best known for his role as Lt. Dan in the Academy Award-winning movie "Forrest Gump," has a longstanding relationship with the military that surpasses his portrayal of the lieutenant. The Army Times reported that he is a veteran of multiple United Service Organizations tours to support troop morale and has been involved in fundraising and recruitment efforts. He is also a founding member of the Lt. Dan Band, named after the iconic character that he portrayed. The group performs at about 50 military-related events a year.
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"To be recognized with such a distinguished honor is truly a privilege and I hope that this recognition only helps to further shine a light in the continuing mission of supporting those who serve and depend our great country," Sines said in a statement.
West Point reported that Sine will receive the award on Oct. 22 at a ceremony hosted by the superintendent of West Point, Lt. Gen. Robert L. Caslen.