Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band play for Malmstrom

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Katrina Heikkinen
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Severe weather conditions didn't set back both Gary Sinise and hundreds of Airmen from flocking to Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, for an outdoor performance by the Lt. Dan Band Aug. 15.

The Lt. Dan Band, a cover band named after a wounded soldier Sinise portrayed in the film "Forrest Gump," has been entertaining and visiting U.S. service members all over the world for more than a decade. Malmstrom was their first stop as part of a weekend ICBM base tour, followed by F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming, and Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota.

"I wanted to say hi to everyone here at Malmstrom," Sinise said to Team Malmstrom. "I want to thank you for your service serving our country. It's a privilege to play for you."

Sinise said after Sept. 11, 2001, he found a clear role entertaining troops who were deployed overseas to serve as a reminder of the appreciation they deserve.

"It's just important to remember where freedom comes from," he said. "And it comes from people that serve in our military."

But a free concert wasn't the only treat for Team Malmstrom; Harvey Gough, former owner of Goff's Hamburgers, and Steak Team Mission donated 1,200 steaks for Airmen and their families at Sun Plaza Park before the concert kicked off. Gough's idea to go overseas and cook steak dinners for U.S. service members originated after 9/11 as a way to give back to his country.

Airmen on duty posted to Malmstrom's missile complex who were unable to attend the dinner and concert received 250 of those steaks.
Airmen, their families and retirees echoed words of praise and feelings of appreciation at the event as they enjoyed a free night of entertainment and a meal.

"I've been at Malmstrom Air Force Base for six years and I've never seen anything like this before - it's great," said Staff Sgt. Michael Canfield, 341st Medical Operations Squadron medical technician.