Actor Gary Sinise To Receive Major Award Locally

Actor Gary Sinise will receive the Sylvanus Thayer Award from the West Point's Association of Graduates next month. The award is given to a civilian whose character and service line up with the ideals regarded highly by the US Military Academy.

Perhaps best known for his role as Lt. Dan from the movie Forrest Gump, Sinise has much more to offer. The Army Times reports he has been on several USO tours overseas to visit active duty troops. In 2004 he started a band which plays dozens of shows a year at military installations, named for his famous role in Forrest Gump. He plays bass in the Lt. Dan Band.

The award dates back to '58. Other famous recipients include Bob Hope, Tom Brokaw and President Reagan. West Point graduates are not eligible for consideration.

Tweets by @GarySinise