Gary Sinise, Richard Rawlings team up to auction car for good cause

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (FOX 10) -- Actor Gary Sinise is perhaps best known for his role as Lieutenant Dan Forrest Gump and astronaut Ken Mattingly in Apollo 13. The actor took the stage on Friday at Barrett-Jackson.

Sinise partnered with Richard Rawlings of Discovery Channel's Fast 'n Loud to auction off a customized 1981 Jeep CJ7, with proceeds going to a foundation near and dear to their hearts.

"This jeep is actually better than the one that came out of the factory in 1981," said Rawlings. "We really went all out. It's an amazing vehicle."

The jeep was restored by Rawlings and his crew at Gas Monkey Garage in Dallas, Texas.

"We found this Jeep, beat down laying around. Didn't run or drive. We built it around the course of 30 days, and here it is," said Rawlings.

The classic vehicle looks fresh and brand new, decked out in the red, white, and blue to support American heroes.

"They are great veteran supporters, all the guys that work on this stuff, so they jumped on the idea and made it happen," said Sinise.

Sinise partnered with Rawlings and his team to customize the Jeep, and proceeds will go towards the the Gary Sinise Foundation to honor the service and sacrifice of veterans.

"Been working with veterans back in -- since the early 80's, and then, when I had the opportunity to audition for Forrest Gump and play a Vietnam veteran, I was blessed to get that part," said Sinise.

Sinise started his foundation in 2001, after the September 11 attacks. Through his charity work, Sinise has been able to help thousands of veterans and their families.

"Obviously, we have to raise a lot of money every year. This really helps us," Sinise said. "Richard and the guys, Monkey folks really helping us here. Barrett-Jackson, allowing us to auction it here. It's going to help a lot of people."

The Jeep was sold Friday evening for $1.3 million.