HOLLYWOOD, Calif. - Hollywood is delivering messages of thanks and support to our men and women in uniform through Letters from Hollywood, a new website launched by the U.S. Army Installation Management Command July 30.
It is a community outreach initiative that shows Hollywood's gratitude for the sacrifices made on behalf of our Nation.
Actor D.B. Sweeney is a driving force behind the site, which features greetings and good wishes from a cross section of the entertainment industry, including actors, producers, directors and singer/songwriters. Sweeney, whose films include "The Cutting Edge" and "Two Tickets to Paradise," spearheads the collection of messages, making sure they reach the servicemembers they are intended for.
"I'm extremely grateful for the sacrifices you and your families make every day to keep America safe," Sweeney wrote in a letter to servicemembers. "I've come across many other people in show business who also support you. [Who] quietly appreciate the admirable reasons you volunteered and the ideals you uphold. And that's what Letters from Hollywood is all about. Giving some of these folks a way to reach you."
Lt. Gen. Rick Lynch, commander of U.S. Army Installation Management Command, said that it means something to servicemembers that the same actors they see in their favorite television shows and movies recognize them and their service in return.
"Our servicemembers have been involved in ongoing conflicts for almost a decade, so every forum that extends support, encouragement and appreciation makes a difference to them and their families," Lynch said.
"Americans are generous and compassionate," Lynch continued. "If they can help somehow, they will. Letters from Hollywood is a great example of that."
Visitors to the Letters from Hollywood site can read messages from entertainers including Academy Award winner Cuba Gooding, Jr.; Sean Astin, who played Sam in the Lord of the Rings trilogy; Joe Mantegna, who currently stars in the weekly series "Criminal Minds;" Karri Turner, who appeared for nine seasons on JAG; Leeann Tweeden, host of "Poker after Dark;" and John Ondrasik, front man for the band Five for Fighting.
New letters are posted every Wednesday at lettersfromhollywood.army.mil.