Lt. Dan Band to perform at Travis

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt Katie Batchelder
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The Lieutenant Dan Band is scheduled to perform a free concert at Travis March 3 in hangar 837 in support of Travis' service members and families. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m.

Since 2004, The Lt. Dan Band has been performing for military personnel in the United States and overseas. Lieutenant Dan is the character Gary Sinise portrayed in the 1994 film Forrest Gump. As Sinise began touring around the world, people didn't recognize him as Gary Sinise, but as Lieutenant Dan, so the band took the name.

The goal for Sinise is always the same when he and his band play--to show their appreciation.

"It's so easy for people to forget that every day there are men and women putting themselves in harm's way for our freedom. And they do so voluntarily. That kind of sacrifice should never go unappreciated," Sinise said.

Sinise has veterans on both sides of his family and has been working with veterans groups since the 80's, and today travels around the world performing for troops.

"It was really after 9/11 that I got seriously involved in the military. Everything changed for me that day. I felt an incredible urge to help and it's only grown ever since," he said.

The band has played for troops and families all over the world, to include Europe, Kuwait, Diego Garcia, Singapore, South Korea, Afghanistan and more. They perform everything from Stevie Wonder and Jimi Hendrix classics to contemporary songs by Kelly Clarkson, Evanescence, Beyonce, Lonestar and the Zac Brown Band.

"It brings the band and I such joy to offer our troops even a moment's respite from military life," Sinise said. For the band, every show has its own memorable moments, and each one is special because it inspires them to do more.

Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band strive to send a message of thanks to service members in the U.S. and overseas.

"We are forever in your debt," Sinise said. "Your service and sacrifices for this country have not and will not be forgotten. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you."

Military in uniform will be granted front row access. There will be a bag check at the door. Outside food and beverages are not permitted--concessions will be available, cash only. Children are welcome but note that there will be limited seating and loud sound levels.

To volunteer, contact Senior Master Sgt. Tammy Stiles at 707-423-7502 or tammy.stiles@us.af.mil.