Forrest Gump told us, “My mom always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”

Hard to believe it’s been 25 years since Tom Hanks gave us that line in the movie classic which shows a kindhearted Forrest unwittingly influencing some of the most defining historical events in American history.

Actor Gary Sinise portrayed Forrest’s platoon leader, Lt. Dan Taylor, who lost his legs during the Vietnam War. In the movie, Lt. Dan blames Forrest for not allowing him to achieve his “destiny” of dying on the battlefield.

By the end of the movie, Lt. Dan’s life as a war amputee is totally transformed. A closing scene shows him at Forrest’s wedding, walking on “miracle legs” thanks to his titanium alloy prosthetics.

There’s a real-life parallel to the movie that still inspires us. Ever since the film’s release in 1994, Gary Sinise has dedicated his life to supporting active-duty military, veterans, first responders and their families.

The story of how Sinise found his calling to help service men and women is revealed in his new book, “Grateful American: A Journey From Self to Service.”

Last month, Sinise was surprised by a video tribute from friends, including many of his peers in the movie business.

“Your commitment, your dedication, you are awesome,” declared “Apollo 13” director Ron Howard.

“Thank you for all the things you have done for our men and women who have served our nation,” said Gen. Colin Powell. “Not only what you’ve done for them but for their children, what you’ve done for their families, what you’ve done to help them rebuild their lives.”

The video tribute included recipients of brand-new homes through the Gary Sinise Foundation’s RISE program, which uses the help of various local contractors and vendors to create specially adapted smart homes for wounded heroes.

Last June, Marine Corps Maj. Eric Burkett raised the American flag on a flagpole located in front of his new Pennsylvania home in Lawrence County. An assault pilot in 2012, he was involved in a plane crash while flying during Operation African Lion in Africa. He suffered optic nerve damage, and injuries to his lower limbs resulted in the amputation of both legs.

Although Sinise was not able to not attend the dedication, he sent a message to the western Pennsylvania family, promising to soon visit them in their home.

“You are a champion, my friend,” Sinise wrote. “Marines never quit, and you inspire us all. Welcome home, sir.”

Sinise’s Lt. Dan Band, which he formed in 2004, performs concerts to benefit veteran causes.

The Sinise foundation also hosts events for Gold Star families, which can help build bonds with the only people who can truly understand their loss: each other.

In 2006, Sinise started the Snowball Express, which aims to create an experience for the families that is fun and inspiring. In December, the foundation hosted grieving families for a five-day Christmas holiday experience to Walt Disney World Resort. The therapeutic retreat, which blends fun with inspiring programs, allows families to lean on their peers for support.

It’s to Sinise’s credit that even a quarter century after he gave us Lt. Dan, the lessons that he imparted on the big screen — forgiveness and thankfulness for life — are still being experienced in today’s real world.

By Jim Zbick | tneditor@tnonline.com