Living a celebrity's life is much harder than talking and gossiping about it. While we consider the celebrities to have special kinds of attributes or some X-factor that has helped them stand at the position they are, we forget about their struggles. We envy their stardom but we forget to praise their life journey before fame.
Most of the men and women on our list have served the nation before they made it big in the entertainment industry and tasted fame. Very likely, their time in the military has helped them to be molded into a stronger and more determined personality which have brought them where they are today. While many of the stars served long before they entered the showbiz world, in some instances, famous movie and TV stars have opted to join the Air Force, Army, Marines, and Navy, at the very height of their successful acting careers.
Elvis Presley - Enlisted In The Military Shortly After He Entered The Music Industry
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Dubbed as 'King of Rock and Roll,' Elvis Presley joined the US military services soon after he went to shine in the music industry. Starting his military career in 1958, Presley served in no fewer than two battalions.
Fun Fact: While he served in the military until 1960, he got to meet his future wife, Priscilla, during the same period while he was stationed in Germany. While in Germany, Presley served to bear the insignia of the 3d Armored Division. He even rejected an offer to be a part of the special services as he desired to be a part of a combat unit.
Sam Elliott - Served The California Army National Guard Before His Acting Career
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Long before he was discovered for his acting chops, Sam Elliot was actually part of the military. He became part of the California Army National Guard to help his family with money. Aside from his service, he also tried working in construction.
But it was still his dream to become an actor, which later became possible when he landed his role in Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid. He became known as a modern-day symbol of the Wild West with films like Conagher and Roadhouse. His most recent project was for the film A Star is Born, alongside Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga.
Ice-T - Proved To Be Ill-Suited To The Military
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While people may see Ice-T as multi-talented - pursuing a career as both actor and rapper, many may not know that the American musician had also served four years in the U.S. Army. Sources say that he joined the Army to support his girlfriend and daughter. He served his honorable 4 years in the 25th Infantry Division. But Ice-T got involved with a group that stole an infantry rug and subsequently left.
Ice-T received only a non-judicial punishment due to which he was able to complete his Advanced Infantry Training. During his service, Ice-T purchased stereo equipment, including mixer and speakers which he all used to hone his rapping skills. He was virtuously discharged after which he started to pursue his passion for music.
Bill Cosby - This Military Veteran Lost All Respect Due To His Deeds
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Though today, Bill Cosby’s name is known for all the incorrect reasons, the actor from The Cosby Show gave four years of his life to the U.S. military working as a hospital corpsman where he served at least five marine bases throughout his term.
Cosby also worked in physical therapy where he healed many injured Korean War soldiers. But these days, it seems that no person has any respect for the former US military veteran due to the multiple charges against him. The comedian/actor was last seen displaying his acting chops in OBKB and now, he looks busy with his legal attorneys fighting against all the allegations against him.
Mel Brooks - Worked As A Landmine Defuser
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As Brooks is apparently a comic genius, it's quite hard to accept that he was in the U.S. military. Yes, Brooks was drafted in the US Army to fight during World War II. He served as a corporal in the 1104 engineer combat Battalion. Mel’s task was not an easy one as he had to work with landmines.
After taking off his Army shoes, Mel switched to pursue a career in acting. He became a well-known actor, writer, and producer after his term in the military. Even at the age of 91, Mel is still active and filling up his bank account.
John Coltrane - Did His First Recording While Still In The Navy
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One of the most prominent saxophonists and jazz composers, John Coltrane was another WWII veteran who did a military job and was in the U.S. Navy in 1945. Coltrane was enlisted at the time when the bombs were rained on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
While serving in the military, John also performed in the Navy Jazz band. Fun Fact: Coltrane did his first recording while he was still in the Navy, with a band named The Melody Masters.
Carly Schroeder - Left Showbiz To Serve In The Army
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Lizzie McGuire fame actress Carly Schroeder has given a great reason to Disney fans to feel proud as she shared her plan to work as a Military Intelligence Officer in the American army. When asked about her motivation behind the career switch, she told that her father was also in the army and younger brother serves in the Marines which is the reason she developed an urge to serve the country.
Being a supporter of victims of human trafficking, the Gracie star always wanted to work for human welfare and we can't deny that Carly has become an inspiration nationwide.
Owen Wilson – Studied In New Mexico Military Institute
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Talking about Owen Wilson, the first thing that appears in mind is a cool, laid-back guy with an infectious smile and blonde hair. This Hollywood star who is most remembered for films like Zoolander and You, Me and Dupree was a real-life troublemaker and even got expelled from school.
He was then admitted to a military institute in New Mexico but did not continue the service after finishing high school. Although his career as an actor has been successful, he is more passionate about writing and has also worked as a screenwriter in a few movies.
Joe Turkel - Served During World War II
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If you are a science fiction movie lover, you probably remember the quirky “Dr. Eldon Tyrell” from the 1982 epic Blade Runner. This sturdy actor who convincingly depicted the scary bartender in The Shining (1980) was an army man before coming to the world of cinema. We bet you didn’t know that!
At the age of 16, he became a part of the U.S. Army and served during the Second World War as he was posted in the European Theater. Now we know from where he got that tough look!
Paul Newman - Couldn't Become A Pilot Due To Colorblindness
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Paul Newman can surely be considered as one of the most sought-after men in classic Hollywood. But only a few must know the fact that before the famous movie and TV star became a celebrated personality, he worked as a radioman in the U.S. Navy.
Actually, Paul wanted to become a pilot but he his being colorblind had prevented him from doing so. But be became qualified as a torpedo bomber and was moved to Hawaii in 1944.
Richard Pryor - Spent Most Of His Military Service Behind Bars
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You must know the famous comedian Richard Pryor, but did you know that Pryor started from the U.S Army? While technically, we can say that he had served in the Army from 1958 to 1960, Richard had actually spent most of his service behind bars - in a military prison.
Pryor was accused of stabbing a Caucasian male at his military base because of the man's racially charged comments.
Oliver Stone - Purple Heart Or Academy Award, Have Your Pick!
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Oliver Stone, the award-winning director, and scriptwriter is not just an Army veteran, but also the recipient of the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. His services during the Vietnam War are still spoken about in military circles.
After dropping out of university, he went on to work on his writing and on a book which went unpublished. It was on being unable to find a publisher that he joined the US Army in 1967. He requested combat duty, which he claimed was “rite of passage” for “a young man” like himself.
Burt Lancaster - From Armed Forces Revues To The Silver Screen
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Born to a rather poor family, Lancaster did many odd jobs to make ends meet. However, after Pearl Harbour, he decided to join the US Army and served in North Africa and Italy. On joining the army, he realized he had a flair for drama and dance. This led him to perform in many theatrical performances and skits held by the armed forces.
On one of the occasions when he was in New York on a break to see his family, he was offered the opportunity to audition for the play A Sound Of Hunting and was spotted by Hal Wallis, a Hollywood producer. He had an illustrious life, from Private to Adjutant General Corps to the Academy Award!
Rob Riggle - A Pilot, A Marine, A Lieutenant, And A Comic
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Rob Riggle is a famous man. Before he delved into comedy through The Daily Show, 21 Jump Street, Modern Family and the like, he served in the United States Marine Corps for over 20 years. While serving as an officer, he visited countries like Kosovo, Afghanistan and worked with more than 10 units.
Riggle is one such veteran, who, even after getting involved with The Daily Show and finding his space in Hollywood, maintained a consistent and deep relationship with the Marine Corps, and was even a reservist for very many years. Good on you Rob!
Chuck Norris - Military Veteran Turned Martial Artist
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The world-famous martial artist and movie actor was a very devoted member of the military before he embarked upon stardom. After he completed high school, he went on to join the Air Force and wanted an eventual life in law enforcement.
In fact, Chuck has gone on record to say it was during his time in the Air Force that he was introduced to martial arts, which was ultimately his call to fame. He was stationed in Korea, and during the time picked up Tang Soo Do and Tae Kwan Do, both of which are Korean martial arts. Still very much involved in military activities, he was even given the award of Veteran of the Year in 1990!
Nate Dogg - Specialist In Ammunition
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The American Rapper, Nate Dogg, who was known as one of the pioneers of West Coast hip-hop, also started his career being a part of the United States Marine Corps for 3 years where he worked as a specialist in ammunition.
At 17, he took up a military job and after his successful service, Nate went on to become a singer, actor and celebrated rapper. Unfortunately, Nate Dogg died in 2011 in Long Beach, California, of complications from multiple strokes when no treatment center was able to save him.
Vincent Pastore - Served As A Sailor In The U.S Navy
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American actor Vincent Pastore, who gained world fame as Salvatore Bonpensiero on The Sopranos, served as a sailor in the U.S. Navy before he became famous. It was after his graduation that he enlisted in the Navy and stayed there until 1967.
Other than his career as an actor and sailor, Pastore also became a businessman - an owner of the club for 3 decades. Other than The Sopranos, Vincent has also appeared in other shows.
James Earl Jones - Was Preparing To Become A Ranger
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Described as "one of America's most distinguished and versatile" actors, James Earl Jones had other plans before entering the showbiz world. Prior to becoming an actor, Jones desired to become a Ranger. And his hard work, he was made the First Lieutenant.
Who would believe that the legendary actor and the voice behind Mufasa of The Lion King was once a lieutenant? After his honorable discharge, James flew to New York City to begin his career in the Hollywood industry without any acting course.
Montel Williams - First Black Enlisted Marine To Graduate Both Academy Prep School & The U.S. Naval Academy At Annapolis
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The American television personality, radio talk show host, and versatile actor, Montel Williams, has had a long and praiseworthy career in the U.S. military. Montel served from 1974 to 1996. And his noteworthy career in the military is not the only impressive part. William was the first black enlisted Marine to graduate from both Academy Prep School and the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis.
While pursuing his career in the military, Williams realized that he has a talent in public speaking, which has helped him to become a TV talk show host. Montel earned the title of lieutenant and also received various other accolades during his illustrious military career. We hope he never had to apply for a military loan!
William Sanderson - Served As A Medic In The U.S. Army During The Vietnam War
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People may know William due to his achievements in the acting industry, but long before his acting career began, William worked as a medic in the United States Army at the time of the Vietnam War. He continued to serve the Army for 2 years then returned to pursue his education and get his college degree. But then, fate had different plans for him.
After college, William landed a role in Newhart. Since then, Sanderson has been displaying his acting chops and has portrayed noteworthy roles in Walker Texas Ranger, Married... with Children and also ER. Did you know that William didn't have any formal training or never took acting courses?
Jesse Ventura - The Governor Of The State Of Minnesota Served As An Operator Of Special Warfare
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Ventura has done it all. He is one of the celebrities on the list who has had the most diverse and successful career. He has been an actor, a wrestler and also served as the Governor of Minnesota.
But even before entering the spotlight, Ventura started by serving the U.S. Navy where he stayed for almost six years. He enlisted during the Vietnam War and served as a Special Warfare Operator. Another interesting fact about him is that he had also worked as a bodyguard of the famous band, The Rolling Stones.
Don Rickles - Served The USS Cyrene As A Seaman First Class
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Don Rickles, the standup comedian, became famous for his insult jokes. But before he made people giggle over his jokes, he became a part of the Navy at 18 after completing his high school. Believe it or not, Don was a WWII veteran where he served the USS Cyrene as a Seaman first class. He served in the Navy until the end of 1946 and then became a comedian.
His great talent landed him roles in various movies and shows, and his roles in Run Silent, Run Deep, and C.P.O. Sharkey became the highlight of his career. Don Rickles continued displaying his acting chops until he died in 2017.
Charlton Heston - Reached The Rank Of Staff Sergeant
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Being a legendary actor is not the only attribute of Charlton Heston. Long before Heston came to make it big in the silver screen, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1944. He had an equally successful career in the military as he reached the rank of Staff Sergeant. In the two years of his service, he worked as an aerial gunner and was trained as a radio operator to work in the Alaskan Aleutian Islands.
After he got discharged from the army, he landed roles in movies such as The Ten Commandments, The Big Country, and Touch of Evil which proved to be the ladder to his success. Heston was also nominated as the President of the National Rifle Association until he had to retire due to his Alzheimer’s disease.
Bea Arthur - Denied That She Served During World War II
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American actress Bea Arthur got to taste fame after her character portrayal in 1970s sitcom All in the Family, and Maude. But Bea actually started being a part of the Military. Though Bea had been mum about it, during World War II, she was a truck driver and acted as a typist from 1943-1945.
After serving for two years, Bea went on to try her luck in the showbiz world because apparently, she wanted to achieve more in her life. She became a part of the original Broadway productions of Mame and built a successful acting career for many years. Sadly, the private and introverted woman (according to her friends) died of cancer at her home in 2009 at the age of 86, despite treatments and medical insurance.
Randy Couture - Rose To Become A Sergeant In The 101st Airborne
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Like Mr. T, it is pretty much obvious why Randy signed up for a job in the military. His physique surely makes him eligible to become a soldier. The Expendables star became a part of the Army in 1982 and served there until 1988. He soon became a Sergeant in the 101st Airborne.
At the same time, he also pursued wrestling and boxing as a hobby which became his career in a later phase. But his journey didn’t stop there. Without any acting course, he went on to become an actor and did some noteworthy roles in films like The Expendables, Setup and also Rise of a Warrior.
Michael Caine - Almost Died During War
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Another British celebrity who served the British Army is Michael Caine. Michael Caine joined the Army in 1952 and stayed there until 1954. He was then sent to Korea and served as a rifle infantryman during the Korean War.
This was the time when Michael suffered from a trauma and almost died. After this, he said that he'd lived every waking moment of his life to the fullest. Caine has been a great supporter of the military and says that everyone should at least serve for six months in the army.
Henry Fonda - Gave Up His Acting Career To Serve In The Military
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The renowned actor, Henry Fonda, gave up on his acting career and fame to serve in the military. Yes, you read that right, Fonda believed that he couldn’t act in the movie that was based on a war at the time when an actual world war was going on.
Eventually, Fonda sacrificed his fame to be a part of the real-life fight and not just the fight on screen.
George Carlin - Joined The Air Force With A Special Purpose
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After George dropped out from high school in 1954, he decided to join the U.S. Air Force with an intention to get a GI Bill to cover the cost of broadcasting school. During his time with the Air Force, George was trained as a radar technician and was stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City, Louisiana. But he had never served overseas and merely supported the troops from the base.
George, who was best known for his cynical style of comedy, died in 2008. But before he left this world, he traveled with his stand-up routine, hosted SNL, and also served as a substitute host on the Tonight Show.
Dennis Franz - Said He Lost His Youth While In The Army
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Before landing the role of a detective in NYPD Blue, Dennis served in the U.S. Army in the 82nd and 101st Airborne divisions in Vietnam. In an interview, he shared that his time in the Army was the most depressing time of his life. He added that he lost his youth at the same time and it seemed that he regretted it.
After the honorable discharge from the Army, Dennis returned to his normal life and decided to make a career in acting. The rest is known to all!
Willie Nelson - Served In The U.S. Air Force For Two Years
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Apparently, the singing sensation doesn't look like a guy who would join the Army, but Nelson did serve in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1952. Nelson used to live in the military base camp for more than a year.
But after he was discharged from the military, Nelson decided to continue his education and then got married. He soon became famous for being a songwriter, poet, singer, activist, and an author. The albums that became the highlight of his career are Red Headed Stranger and Stardust.
Gene Wilder - Served As A Medic In Pennsylvania
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Gene Wilder may be another legendary name included in the list that may shock you. Sources may tell you that Wilder began his career on stage and then made his first screen debut in an episode of the TV series The Play of the Week.
In reality, even before he realized that he wanted to pursue a career in acting, Wilder was drafted in the U.S. Army in 1956. He served as a medic in Pennsylvania and he never served overseas. Wilder was best known for his appearances in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. After an illustrious career, Wilder died in 2016 at the age of 83.
Zulay Henao - Had Enough Guts To Serve Three Years In The Military
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Zulay Henao, the Colombian-American film actress, is one of the few women on our list who had the guts to join the U.S. Army. After completing her high school, Zulay went into the U.S. Army and served for three years.
After leaving the service, Zulay realized her real talents and set her sights on a career acting. She co-starred in a number of films like Illegal Tender, Takers, Boy Wonder, The Single Moms Club, and True Memoirs of an International Assassin. In 2014, Zulay went to portray the role of the lead character in the Oprah Winfrey Network series, If Loving You Is Wrong.
Charles Bronson - Dark Hero In Films But Real Life Hero As An Army Gunner In World War II
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Charles Bronson has become well-known as an anti-hero in Death Wish films. He has managed to make a name for himself in the industry with his famous tough-guy roles. But did you know that he was a real-life hero?
He fought in the second World War, with the rank of Army gunner. He was also born in Pennsylvania, in Johnstown, where the only paychecks for laborers came from coal mining. He eventually enlisted in the Army when he had the chance to in 1943 and worked in the 760th Flexible Gunnery Training Squadron. He left in 1946 and began acting. Bronson passed away in 2003 with a fruitful career in acting.
Kirk Douglas - Served In World War II As A Navy Lieutenant
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Considering Kirk’s illustrious career in the acting industry, no one can imagine him in any other career. But contrary to people’s beliefs, Kirk Douglas served in World War II as a Navy lieutenant. With the passage of time, he became a communications officer for submarine warfare.
Eventually, he was discharged in 1944 due to medical reasons. But he didn’t stop there as he went for something even bigger. After he got back to home, Kirk landed roles in Young Man with a Horn, The Bad and the Beautiful and Champion. The legend is now 100 years old and his life is surely an inspiration to many.
Jimi Hendrix - Junked Military Work To Practice Guitar
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No, Jimi didn’t join the U.S. military with an intention to serve the nation. In fact, he enlisted in the military as a teen to avoid spending time in jail for car theft. The renowned guitarist served as a paratrooper while he was a part of the 101st Division in the US Army. Jimi was a complete misfit for the Army because he wasn't used to taking orders; instead, he would just practice his guitar.
After quite a few interventions, the rocker was deemed “untreatable by hospitalization or counseling” and was discharged honorably. It was apparent that if he wasn't released from the military, he couldn’t have pulled off a fortune of $175 million and sky-reaching credit score.
Drew Carey - Served The U.S. Marine Corps For Six Years
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The stand-up comedian, actor, and the follower of Bob Barker of The Price Is Right had served the U.S. Marine Corps for six years until 1986. Drew stayed a Corporal for all the six years of his stint and after his release from the military, he became a stand-up comedian.
Though it may be hard to reconcile his military background with his pudgy appearance and comedic personality, his recent unbelievable transformation will surely clear all the confusions in your head.
Bob Barker - This Fighter Pilot Didn't See War
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When we think of a TV game show host, the name that comes to mind is that of Bob Barker. Bob Barker is the most prominent TV game show host ever who hosted The Price is Right. Surprisingly, before he started asking the contestants to ‘Come on down,' he served as a fighter pilot in US Navy.
Fortunately, he didn’t have to face any of the wars. Barker has a record of hosting the longest-running TV game show in the history of the U.S. - from 1972 to 2007. That’s 35 years! Working for so many years, he must have amassed a huge fortune for himself that we don't think that he could ever be dependent on military retirement funds.
Shaggy - Member Of The 10th Marine Regiment
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Shaggy can be best remembered for his contribution to the reggae music genre. Albums like Boombastic, Angel, and It Wasn’t Me have been highlights of his career. Considering his persona, it may come as a surprise that the singing sensation was once a part of the Marine Corps. Yes, you read that right - he served during The Gulf War as one of the many members of the 10th Marine Regiment.
After discharge from the Army, he continued to make wonders in the music industry in the early 2000s. Recently, people have seen him struggling to make a grand comeback. We wish him luck!
MC Hammer - Joined The Army With A Weird Intention
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Did you notice that every celebrity who came out of the Army has achieved great success in their particular field? It is no different in the case of MC Hammer. Long before his puffy pants and famous songs were even in his mind, the American hip-hop artist was in the U.S. Navy. Hammer had enlisted with the purpose of aligning his life and getting far from indulging in illegal activities.
Well, his intentions turned into reality as after spending three years in the Navy, he was able to carve his name as a successful hip-hop artist. He surely remodeled the rap world and pulled off a humongous fortune for himself, with sky-reaching credit score!
Johnny Carson - Wanted To Become A Pilot But Couldn't
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The American host didn’t always sit behind the desk. The TV star enlisted his name in the Navy in 1953 with dreams of becoming a pilot. But as we don’t always get what we dream of, Carson was sent to Columbia University to provide training as a midshipman where he also performed some magic tricks to entertain his classmates. But eventually, Carson was assigned to the USS Pennsylvania in the Pacific Ocean.
Thankfully, Johnny survived the war and then went on to become the host of the Tonight Show from 1962 until 1992. Carson pulled off an illustrious career and earned many honors and awards. Though considering his credit score, he will never require a military loan, but even if he needs one, we don't think he will have any problem.
Ernest Hemingway - Shared His World War I Experience Through His Writing
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Though Hemingway served in the U.S. Army, he was not a soldier. Hemingway served in WW I working as an ambulance driver. And he even shared his experience through his writing. He wrote that on an occasion when he was transporting survivors of a blast that befell in a factory that made ammunition, he had to pull out the bodies of the dead from the building.
Recalling the incident, he said that although they tried to collect full bodies of the dead, there were mostly just body parts scattered about. You really need to have a strong stomach to pursue a military job.
Morgan Freeman - Rejected An Acting Scholarship To Train As A Fighter Pilot
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The young Morgan was so fascinated by the idea of flying that he took up a military job by joining the U.S. Airforce in 1955. Freeman had an opportunity to accept a drama scholarship from the Jackson State University but instead, he went to get trained as a fighter pilot. He discussed with an acclaimed magazine that as soon as he sat on the cockpit, he felt like he was sitting in the nose of the bomb. This was the event when he realized that he only liked the idea of flying and couldn’t actually pursue it.
And we all know what happened next. The military veteran became the star of the showbiz world and can now purchase any plane he wants to. We don’t see him applying for a military loan in the coming future.
Adam Driver - Joined The Army After The 9/11 Devastating Attacks
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Adam Driver can be called the youngest actor on our list who is best known for portraying a role in the HBO show Girls. Adam decided to enlist in the Army after the disastrous attacks of 9/11.
In an interview, he explained how the event was life-changing for him and that he believes that joining the military was beneficial for him to be able to do something as a civilian. Adam was freed after he broke his sternum in an accident.
Sammy Davis Jr. - Member Of Special Services During World War II
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Long before Sammy Davis Jr. made his name in the music industry and became a member of the prominent musical group Rat Pack, he started as a member in the special services during WWII. This was the time in the Army when Davis had to face racial discrimination.
While he was in the Army, Sammy said that his talent was his weapon, giving him the power to affect other people's thought processes
Bar Refaeli - The Israeli Top Model
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Refaeli shot to fame long before she was at loggerheads with the Israeli Army. As one of the most internationally successful models, she has been the cover girl for premier fashion magazines like Elle, Vogue, L’Officiel, and GQ. With a host of advertising campaigns to her name with luxury brands like Chanel, Victoria’s Secret, and Ralph Lauren, she was listed as one of the 100 hottest Women of 2011.
The Israeli Army, however, has had some trouble with her approach to military service. Her refusal to serve in the army irked many, leading to much controversy in 2003. Still considered to be one of the most beautiful women in the world, she is especially known for being the famed ex-flame of Leonardo DiCaprio.
Mr. T - Was Elected Top Trainee Amongst A Troop Of 6,000
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It doesn't sound shocking that Mr. T had served in the Army’s Military Police Corps. It was in November 1975 when he received a recommendation by his drill sergeant and in the cycle of a 6,000-troop, he was selected “Top Trainee of the cycle” due to which he was promoted to squad leader.
After his noble discharge from the military, Mr. T went to pursue a career in Hollywood and became a movie star with his noteworthy roles in films like The A-Team and Rocky III. He proved that you don't always need to pursue any acting course to make it big in Hollywood.
Clint Eastwood - Swimming A Mile When The Torpedo Bomber Made A Water Landing
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Clint Eastwood, the actor, musician, and filmmaker, considered an “icon of masculinity”, was drafted into the Army during the Korean War, but was not stationed abroad as he was assigned the job of a swimming instructor.
Eastwood served in the Army until he was discharged off all duties in 1953, after which he went on to study drama in LA and eventually landed a job at Universal Studios. He went on to work with several of his fellow soldiers during his acting career, such as Martin Miller, Richard Long, David Janssen and so on.
Leonard Nimoy - Served 18 Months In The Military
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Leonard can be considered as one of the most versatile personalities on the list. He was an actor, film director, photographer, author, singer, and also a songwriter. But before all these, Nimoy aka Spock of the Star Trek series enlisted in the U.S. Army reserve in the early 1950s.
Though not a lot of information is available about Nimoy’s services, sources have indicated that Nimoy spent 18 months in service and his service number was ER 11 229 770. Leonard was discharged in 1955 while his last rank was that of Sergeant. Unfortunately, Nimoy passed away in 2015.
Sean Connery - Enlisted In The Royal Navy At The Age Of 16
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At the age of 16, Sean Connery enlisted in the Royal Navy. The actor, who gave life to the original James Bond character, used to do his own stunts while he was working for the role. Before he had to retire due to medical issues, Connery served in the Navy for some years.
After his Naval service, Connery pursued a career in acting, starring in multiple classic films (other than James Bond movies) such as The Name of the Rose, Indiana Jones, and The Last Crusade.
Alan Alda – Served In The Army Reserve During Korean War
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This celebrity is a heap of talent. We are talking about Alan Alda, the American actor-director who is best known for winning 5 Emmy and 6 Golden Globe awards for his outstanding TV series M*A*S*H. Probably many of you don’t know that he also has a past connection to the army.
Alan served in the army reserve for a brief period of 6 months during which he was stationed in Korea. Apparently, this iconic personality was destined for showbiz which is evident through his remarkable contributions to the film and television industry.serv
Bob Ross – Got Inspired To Paint While Serving In The U.S. Air Force
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The story of Bob Ross is an interesting one! This guy with trademark bushy hair found his inspiration for painting through his 20 years of army service. At the age of 18, Bob joined the U.S. Air Force as a technician and was gradually promoted to a high designation of master sergeant.
It was during his term in Alaska when he was stimulated by the picturesque mountains covered with snow. This now deceased American artist is still remembered for his famous show The Joy of Painting through which he gained recognition.
Steve McQueen - The Hero Who Courageously Saved 5 Marines
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Before he went to register his name on the list of legendary movie stars, Steve McQueen served in the United States Marine Corps starting in 1947. McQueen was considered as a hero after he was on a mission where with his rebellious nature he had saved five Marines.
After leaving the Corps, McQueen went on to become a legendary star in Hollywood. Some of the highlights of his career are The Towering Inferno, The Magnificent Seven, and The Great Escape.
Pat Sajak – Served As A Disc Jockey In The Vietnam War
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The first thing that comes to mind upon hearing Pat’s name is Wheel of Fortune, the popular American game show. Another interesting fact about this famous talk show host is that he served as a disc jockey on the U.S. Army radio during the Vietnam war.
Pat revealed that he was initially trained as a typist clerk and was appointed in the finance division but never worked as one. The TV star also shared that although he served in the army, he never bragged about it due to his not-so-tough role.
Jimmy Stewart – Became A Bomber Pilot In The Air Corps
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One of the most honored Hollywood stars, Jimmy Stewart enlisted in the army when his acting career was already at peak. The legendary actor always had a keen interest in aviation but could not follow it initially because of his father’s disapproval.
However, after his entrance in the entertainment business, he realized that flying was his greatest passion. But despite his vigorous enthusiasm, he was initially rejected by the army due to being underweight. An interesting fact about this eminent personality is that he is the only actor to have achieved a rank of Brigadier General.
Tom Selleck – A Proud Veteran Who Served As A Sergeant
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Tom Selleck, despite being a passionate actor, calls himself a proud veteran of the U.S. Army. During his 6 years of a military career, he served as a sergeant in the infantry division of the National Guard. Post-retirement from the army, it was the acting world that became the soul of Tom’s life.
Nonetheless, it was only after the super hit television series Magnum, P.I. went on-air that the actor’s success began. The former army-man states that his military experience gave him a lesson to always be grateful to the U.S. troops and he still continues strong support for them.
Gal Gadot – Fitness Instructor In The Israel Defense Forces
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Yes, this gorgeous diva has served in the army too! The Hollywood star has been melting hearts since Wonder Woman came on big screens. What makes her even more appealing is her past role as a combat instructor in the Defense Forces of her home country (This time it’s real, not reel).
The stunning actress, who also won the title of Miss Israel, served in the army for 2 years before entering the glamor world. In an interview with Maxim, Gal jokingly revealed that during her term in the army, soldiers were quite fond of her as she kept them fit. Well, we don’t blame the soldiers for loving her!
Hugh Hefner – Served As A Military News Writer In The Army
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It came as a surprise that the founder of Playboy, the world’s most iconic men’s entertainment magazine, served as an infantry clerk in the U.S. Army. The now deceased life-stylist, despite winning a sharpshooter badge during his training, was never sent to the battleground.
In fact, he spent his tenure as a writer and cartoonist for newspapers in the army. Apparently, destiny had bigger plans for him as he created history in the form of a top-selling magazine brand. Other than creating entertainment content, Hugh was immensely popular for his flamboyant lifestyle that resembled with his own brand.
Tony Bennett – Served As An Infantryman In The U.S. Army
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The 92-year-old legendary jazz singer once served in the U.S. Army during the last stages of the Second World War. Named as “a Citizen of the World” by the United Nations, the singer has continued to receive huge admiration by music lovers throughout the generations.
Upon joining the army, Bennett was designated as a rifleman in the infantry section from where he was promoted as a corporal. The I Left My Heart in San Francisco fame singer started his journey with a musical band in the army as Joe Barri, his stage name. Apart from being an esteemed singing sensation, he has also been strongly recognized for his humanitarian ideology.
Henry Kissinger – The Noble Prize Winner Served As A G-2 Intelligence Officer
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Henry Kissinger, the noble prize-winning politician scientist, is best known for his contribution in formulating the foreign policy of the United States. Apart from being the world’s highest paid political figure at present, another interesting and lesser known fact about him is his past connection with the army.
Kissinger served in the American army during the Second World War after migrating to the United States. The diplomat who originally aspired to become an accountant served as an armed soldier and later a G-2 intelligence staff. In one of the books authored by Greg Grandin, this American personality has been tagged as “Most Controversial Statesman”.
Johnny Cash - Served As An Intercept Operator With The USAF Security Service
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After the renowned musician, Johnny Cash passed his high school, he enlisted in the Air Force at the time when the Korean War began. Most of his four years of service were spent in Germany. With a great sense of rhythm, he had mastered the Morse Code and served as an intercept operator with the USAF Security Service.
He was honorably discharged from service in 1953 and the rest is known to the world. Cash took the music industry and the world by storm and became a highly praised musician who sold over 90M albums. The US military must have been really proud of this veteran...