Actor Gary Sinise received an award for his commitment to helping U.S. veterans.
Sinise was presented with the 2022 Charlie Daniels Patriot Award by David Corlew, co-founder of The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project and manager of late country music star, Charles Daniels, according to Fox News.
Per the website, the group, founded in 2014 by Daniels, is “a not-for-profit organization that assists other not-for-profits in securing funds to help causes that benefit veterans of the United States Armed Forces.”
In a statement shared with Fox News Digital, Sinise expressed how he felt about the accolade.
“I am honored to receive this award from Charlie Daniels, in his name. To receive an award in his name is a blessing, a privilege, an honor,” he said.
Sinise further stated, “Why did I get so lucky?”
In email comments sent to Fox News Digital by Corlew, he explained, “It is imperative that The Journey Home Project recognizes those who go above and beyond in their commitment to serve those who have served, 24/7, 365 days a year.”
— Journey Home Project/ Founder Charlie Daniels (@TJHproject) June 10, 2023
Furthermore, Corlew explained this was the purpose behind the award.
“The men and women of our armed forces and first responders are standing in the gap to protect our freedoms and way of life. Our hope is that it will inspire others to share in this critical responsibility,” he continued.
The group also shared why it chose Sinise as the recipient.
“Gary Sinise has set the high-water mark in support for our vets. Foundations and support groups can learn so much from this guy, the organization shared.
The group added, “He is the ideal recipient for The Charlie Daniels Patriot Award. Charlie would be very proud that we made this happen.”
Sinise founded the Gary Sinise Foundation in 2011. In a letter written on its website, he shared his mission behind creating the organization.
“My personal mission is what led to the founding of the Gary Sinise Foundation in 2011, and with the help of supporters like you, we will continue to expand this mission in support of our nation’s defenders, veterans, first responders and their loved ones, while upholding the importance of keeping our country strong by taking care of those who serve,” the letter reads.