Grateful American – A Journey From Self to Service by Gary Sinise

(A Book Review by Emerson J. Clauss III)

Lt Dan stirs our emotions again, that is, with the help of a super talented actor, Gary Sinise.

Grateful American is an easy read chronicling Gary’s rise from a “basement” actor starring in school plays and getting hooked, to being one of the most beloved characters in one of the most funny, enlightening and entertaining movies of our times, Forest Gump.  In forest Gump, Gary portrays a severely injured Lt. Dan, a Vietnam Veteran who comes back into Forest’s life (played by the incomparable Tom Hanks) at crucial times in both of their lives.

But long before that movie, Sinise shares with us, the learning of his craft, the hard work that his path follows to stardom, and his life along the way.  In many ways, it is a true American tale.  He and some of his friends (now notable or recognizable actors themselves) start a small Theatre Company; one that has now become world renown and still thrives to this day.

What we see of Gary over the years in films, looks so smooth and polished; however real life rarely is so.  And he honestly shares many of the challenges he faced in relationships, with acting itself, with family and even with his second most important relationship, with his wife, Moira. 

I say second most important relationship, because he also tells of his coming back to a relationship with God and his dedication or re-dedication to his family, his charitable work and to life in general, because of the strong belief and relationship with God.

Admittedly as a fan of Gary Sinise, his film work as well as his charitable works, I found this book like a journey through his roles and you’ll find yourself smiling along with Lt. Dan, Mac Taylor or many of the other roles Gary has brought to life.  His performances seem a lot like the life he describes; solid, hard working and emotional to the right degree.  I couldn’t imagine anyone picking up this book and being disappointed.

As the chapters unfold, the reader finds a realization, that Gary’s charitable work, which has been enjoyed by many of us over many years; surprisingly not being aware of how much that he does or is a part of, until he connects the dots for the reader.  He is inspiring in how long he has had this tug to give service back to those who have served our country, and to help them adapt back to civilian life. 

Whether watching the 4th of July Tribute show he is emceeing with Joe Montagna or following his work with the Gary Sinise Foundation, their work through RISE to build wounded veteran’s adaptable homes; it’s hard to realize how little the rest of us may be doing to help; the pull to get more involved is real. 

And if you’ve never done anything or been a part of something “bigger then yourself”, it is an amazing feeling, one that Grateful American portrays well.  These acts can put so many trivial things in your life in perspective; and leaving you counting your blessings along the way.  And Gary tells the tale of how so many other Americans of all walks of life, show up to lend a hand.

This book is a great read.  If you can make it through without a constant smile or feelings or other emotional reaction to his stories, or of a call to action, any action of some small sort; then you may wish to check your pulse. 

One of my measures of any book, is if it is well written and entertaining, if it has tugged on my heart strings and brought a tear to my eyes.  Again, if this is not your reaction, please see a doctor or counselor.  I know I kept the kleenex handy.   And, I am truly inspired to do something… to do more for our returning Veterans.   To find some small way to pitch in. 

And yes, my Dad was one, a veteran in both WWII and Korea, who passed away a few years ago.  He was honored, as was his large family, with a military ceremony at his place of rest in the VA Cemetery in Central Florida. 

Grateful American is an awesome read about a lot of different Americans who have stepped up and given service to this great Country, and although filled throughout its pages with plenty of heroes, Gary Sinise is truly one of them. 

A Book Review by Emerson J. Clauss III ©