This is the famous Hollywood actor who organizes free trips to Disney theme parks for children of fallen U.S. soldiers
The Forrest Gump actor has turned his attention to a hugely important cause.
Most people know Gary Sinise for his award-winning role as Lieutenant Dan in Forrest Gump, but beyond Hollywood, he’s built a reputation for something far more profound. What began as Vietnam veteran support evolved into his own foundation; since then, Sinise has dedicated himself to supporting the families of fallen U.S. service members, especially their children.
One of the most heartfelt initiatives under his foundation is a program known as “Snowball Express,” in which Sinise and his team organise all-expenses-paid trips to Disney theme parks for hundreds of kids who have lost a parent in military service.
As well as the trips, there are special ceremonies honouring the lives of their loved ones, spaces for reflection, and plenty of time out for the children.
Actor Gary Sinise took over 1,000 children of fallen soldiers to Disneyland, free of charge pic.twitter.com/BPqEZ6pkMF
— Dudes Posting Their W’s (@DudespostingWs) August 10, 2025
Sinise himself shows up, often greeting families personally and spending time with them throughout the trip, showing that this is no publicity stunt, it’s the actor using his money in a positive way for society.
The foundation covers everything: flights, hotels, meals, and park access, ensuring that the only thing families have to worry about is enjoying themselves. For parents, it’s a brief but much-needed reprieve from constant reminders of loss.
The website says: “The loss of a parent never gets easier. We’re serving the children and surviving spouses of fallen military & first responder heroes, our “Snowball Express” families, through year-round programming and support that reminds them they are never alone and their hero is never forgotten."
Every year, actor Gary Sinise takes more than 1,700 family members of fallen soldiers to Disney World for free pic.twitter.com/WVLJG3LZoK
— Historic Vids (@historyinmemes) September 16, 2025
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As well as his Emmy and Golden Globe wins, along with an Oscar nomination in Forrest Gump, Sinise also starred in Apollo 13, Ransom, The Green Mile, and nine seasons of CSI: NY.
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