Were you at any of the events for the 6th annual GI Film Festival, May 14-20, 2012? If not, you missed out! Celebrities, filmmakers, military troops, members of the Senate and Congress and many more were on hand at the many different events throughout the week!
The GI Film Festival, co-founded by Brandon L. Millett and Laura Law-Millett, is a festival that screens military films, representing each branch of the military. It’s also the only film festival which shows the successes and sacrifices of the military through film.
The week kicked off with a Congressional Reception at the Capitol Visitor Center, where Criminal Minds actor, Joe Mantegna, was awarded with the GI Spirit Award. Throughout the week, countless military films were shown, including the new hit movie, Battleship, shown during Wounded Warrior Appreciation Night. Aspiring filmmakers were even given the opportunity to participate in the Filmmaker Bootcamp, led by Hollywood directors and producers.
Brandon and Laura, founders of the GI Film Festival with actor, Joe Mantegna
DC on Heels correspondent, Shaina Millan, with Joe Mantegna
Also on hand was Wheel of Fortune host, Pat Sajak and his wife, Lesly. Sajak, a Vietnam Army veteran, hosted International Warrior Night at the Canadian Embassy. “As a former member of the military, I am proud to take part in this year’s festival,” said Sajak.
Pat Sajak with GI Film Festival Outreach Coordinator, Marlene Hall
Receiving the GI Family Award, Sally Pressman and Brian McNamara, actors from the hit Lifetime tv series, Army Wives, graced the red carpet Saturday night at the Naval Heritage Center. During the evening, guests were treated to an advanced screening of the movie, Memorial Day, which portrays a WWII soldier whose grandson finds his footlocker from the war.
Shaina Millan with the producers of the movie, Memorial Day
Army Wives actors with members of the military
It was a great week! I’m glad I was able to be apart of it! Be sure to check out the GI Film Festival website to see more information and pictures from the week’s events. Hope to see you there next year!
XO, Shaina
