Military & Veterans Life

Scott's View: CelebVet: Young "Forrest Gump" Two Decades Later: A Soldier On Screen and Off

June 18, 2014

Scott Higgins, WeSalute Co-founder & Co-CEO

Forrest Gump

We hope you enjoy your first of a series, "CelebVet" on Michael Conner Humphreys. When you think of the movie "Forrest Gump," you may think of Tom Hanks, but Humphreys is the "original," in that he played Gump as a child in that same movie. After the release of the movie 20 years ago next month, Humphreys grew up and later served our nation with honor in the U.S. Army.

As a Vietnam Veteran like Gump in the movie, I must say I was touched by the truth and emotion "Forrest Gump" evoked on the big screen.

Later this year, "Gump" returns to an even bigger screen – a 20th Anniversary edition will be released on Imax. I know I will be going back to see it. Will you?

Expect more "CelebVet" features soon, as Veterans Advantage tells you more about Vets who have become famous in the public eye.

Image Credit: themoviedb.org

Blog Tags:

Scott's View

From Our Member Community

WeSalute's Innisbrook Golf Getaway

Discounts & Benefits Escape to Innisbrook: The Ultimate Golf & Leisure Experience At WeSalute, we believe that "A Real Thank You" should be more than a sentiment — it should be an experience. We are constantly searching for partners who don't just provide a service, but set a standard of excellence. Last week, our journey took us to the legendary Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, Florida, and we are excited to share why this destination is the perfect blueprint for our 2026 vision.

nurses

Discounts & Benefits A Real Thank You is Coming to the Nursing Community We want the nursing community to know that we see you. You work twelve-hour shifts that often turn into fourteen. You make split-second decisions that save lives. When doctors aren’t available, families look to you for answers. You are the constant presence when people are at their most vulnerable — providing not just medical care, but comfort, advocacy, and hope.

Scott's View

Discounts & Benefits Wishing You All A Happy & Healthy 2026 As the final days of 2025 unfold, all of us at WeSalute want to take a moment to send our warmest holiday wishes to you and your loved ones. This season is a time for connection, reflection, and gratitude, and we enter the new year feeling more inspired than ever by the community we serve.

The Dick Van Dyke Show

WeSalute Awards CelebVet: Dick Van Dyke “I'm looking for work if anybody has,” joked the now 100-year-old comedian and entertainer Dick Van Dyke. Best known for his iconic roles in films like Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and the classic television series The Dick Van Dyke Show, the beloved actor has officially joined the centenarian club. Van Dyke celebrated his 100th birthday on December 13, a milestone marked not by a lavish Hollywood gala, but in true Van Dyke fashion: with a low-key day at home watching Jeopardy! reruns with his wife, Arlene Silver.

Join Our Community.

Yes, Get Me Started

Already a member? Login now.