Sinise Named Spokesman for Veterans Group

NEW YORK (AP) -- Gary Sinise will serve as the national spokesman for the Disabled Veterans for Life Memorial Foundation.

The actor, who played Vietnam vet "Lt. Dan" Taylor in "Forrest Gump," agreed to the spokesman position, it was announced Friday. The foundation is working to build a disabled veterans memorial in Washington D.C. near the Capitol.

"I am deeply moved to have been asked to participate in this absolutely necessary memorial," Sinise said in a statement. "I can only hope that my participation will help draw attention to the cause and ensure its successful fruition as the nation's first and only such tribute built specifically to these courageous men and women."

Lois Pope, a co-founder of the foundation, said, "His portrayal in 'Forrest Gump' of a soldier who loses his legs in the Vietnam conflict brought home the terrible price that our men and women pay in the fight for our country's freedom."

The foundation is aiming to raise $65 million for the memorial, which former President Clinton authorized in 2000.

Gary Sinise and Bruce Willis (see my Nov. 7th post) are to be commended for their deep commitment and devotion to the men and women of the United States military.