Lt. Dan Band Analysis

One of the organizations I am proud to donate to is the United Service Organizations, or USO. Since 1941, the USO has supported troops at home and abroad. With the intent to lift the spirits of troops and their family members, the organization endeavors to provide a “home away from home” feeling for all the families dealing with the rigors of serving overseas. The organization became famous for its Camp Shows over the years--with some occurring in active war zones. To make this all possible, the USO relies heavily on private donations.

One group with an extensive history of helping on both of those fronts is the Lt. Dan Band. Headed by the exceptionally talented musician Kimo Williams and actor Gary Sinise, the Lt. Dan Band formed in 2004

Sinise boasts a long record of supporting the troops through the band and his own individual efforts. For his contributions, Sinise has been recognized on multiple occasions--including being the recipient of the Presidential Citizens Medal. One of Sinise’s strongest initiatives has been for a memorial to the millions of disabled veterans in America. In an interview with the Army in 2007 Sinise noted, "Each time I visit our wounded I 'm struck by their humility, their courage, determination, their acceptance and their dedication to our country and their fellow warriors.”

To provide every serviceperson and their family a good time, the band aims to give something to everyone with an array of songs ranging from “Locked Out of Heaven” to “Smoke on the Water.” When not performing for the troops, the group raises awareness at benefit concerts through music and education. Furthermore, through their Invincible Spirit Festivals, the group has boosted spirits while inspiring the military community. To date, the group has played over 300 concerts across the world in support of service