Before they graced our screens or topped the music charts, many of our favorite celebrities wore a different kind of uniform – that of their nation’s armed forces. Serving in the military is a profound commitment, shaping individuals in ways that often extend far beyond their time in service. This article explores the fascinating stories of celebrities who, prior to their illustrious careers in entertainment, dedicated themselves to serving their countries in the armed forces. From World War II to later conflicts, these individuals experienced military life, and for many, these experiences played a significant role in shaping their perspectives and paths to stardom.
James Earl Jones: The Voice of Authority Forged in Service
Actor James Earl Jones in 2013 on the left, and James Earl Jones as the voice of Darth Vader in "The Empire Strikes Back" (1980) on the right. James Earl Jones, the iconic voice of Darth Vader and Mufasa, began his journey in service to his country. Graduating from the University of Michigan’s Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), Jones was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army in the summer of 1953. His initial assignment was pivotal: establishing a cold weather training command at Camp Hale in Colorado, a challenging task that speaks to his leadership and resilience right from the start of his military career. This early responsibility in demanding conditions laid a foundation of discipline and authority, traits that would later resonate in his powerful voice and stage presence.
Tony Bennett: From WWII Soldier to Singing Sensation
Tony Bennett as Cpl. Anthony Benedetto singing for troops in Germany in 1945 on the left, and Tony Bennett performing with his quartet on tour on the right. The legendary crooner Tony Bennett, born Anthony Dominick Benedetto, experienced the harsh realities of World War II firsthand. Drafted into the Army in 1944, he was deployed to Europe with the 63rd Infantry Division during some of the war’s most intense periods. His division was involved in heavy fighting across Germany in 1945, including the liberation of Dachau concentration camp, an experience that undoubtedly left a profound impact on the young soldier. After the war, while stationed in Mannheim, Germany, Cpl. Benedetto began performing with the 314th Army Special Services Band, hinting at his future path. Utilizing the GI Bill after his service, Bennett honed his vocal talents, eventually becoming the beloved singer who touched hearts worldwide, a journey that started amidst the trials of wartime service.
Robert Duvall: Military Roots to Hollywood Star
Actor Robert Duvall with his wife Luciana Pedraza shaking hands with a Navy member at the Taormina Film Fest in Sicily, Italy, 2005. Robert Duvall’s connection to the military runs deep, growing up as the son of a Navy Rear Admiral. While he didn’t follow his father into the Navy, Duvall enlisted in the Army in 1953 during the aftermath of the Korean War. Serving for two years at Camp Gordon, Georgia, he was honorably discharged as a private first class. Like many veterans, Duvall used the GI Bill to pursue his passion, enrolling in acting classes in New York City. His military background, combined with his acting studies, contributed to his authentic portrayals in numerous military-themed films like “M*A*S*H” and “Apocalypse Now.” Duvall’s dedication to veterans continues today through his visits to VA hospitals, showing a lasting respect for military service instilled during his time in the Army.
Clint Eastwood: From Swimming Instructor to Hollywood Icon
Clint Eastwood in his Army uniform on the left, and Clint Eastwood meeting Marine Corps officers at Camp Pendleton, CA, in 2019 on the right. Before he was “Dirty Harry” or a celebrated director, Clint Eastwood was drafted into the U.S. Army in the 1950s. Assigned to Fort Ord, California, Eastwood served as a swimming instructor, a role that might seem unexpected for the future action star. However, even during his military service, Eastwood’s charisma was evident, as he worked as a bouncer off-base and began to attract attention from Hollywood circles. Upon his honorable discharge in 1953, he utilized the GI Bill to take acting classes, launching a remarkable 70-year career in the entertainment industry. Eastwood’s Army service, though perhaps less dramatic than his film roles, was a formative period that preceded his legendary Hollywood journey.
Elvis Presley: The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll Goes to War
Elvis Presley receiving separation papers from the US Army at Fort Dix, N.J., March 5, 1960.
Elvis Presley training with a rocket launcher in Wildflecken, Germany, Oct 1959.
Elvis Presley’s transition from rock and roll royalty to Army sergeant is a unique chapter in celebrity and military history. Drafted in 1957 at the peak of his fame, Presley embraced military service, wanting to be seen as more than just a pop icon. After basic training in 1958, he served with the 2nd and 3rd Armored Divisions, spending 18 months in Germany as a truck driver. Presley’s decision to serve, despite his fame, earned him widespread respect and demonstrated a commitment to duty. His time in the Army, culminating in an honorable discharge in 1960, was a deliberate effort to prove his character and dedication, adding another dimension to his iconic persona.
Jackie Robinson: Breaking Barriers On and Off the Field
Jackie Robinson in his Army uniform on the left, and Jackie Robinson in his Brooklyn Dodgers baseball uniform in 1950 on the right. Jackie Robinson, a name synonymous with breaking racial barriers in baseball, also faced segregation within the U.S. Army during World War II. Drafted in 1942 after a stellar athletic career at UCLA, Robinson was initially assigned to a segregated cavalry unit. Commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1943, he was later involved in a courageous act of defiance against segregation when he refused to move to the back of a military bus in 1944. Despite facing court-martial, he was acquitted and honorably discharged in 1944. Robinson’s military service, marked by his stand against injustice, reflects the same courage and determination he displayed when breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball. His experiences in the Army were a precursor to his role as a civil rights icon, demonstrating his lifelong fight for equality.
Charles Schulz: From WWII to Peanuts
Charles M. Schulz in his Army uniform on the left, and Charles M. Schulz drawing Charlie Brown in 1956 on the right. Charles Schulz, the creator of the beloved “Peanuts” comic strip, served as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II. Drafted in 1943, Schulz was assigned to the 20th Armored Division. While details of his combat experiences are less known, the discipline and structure of military life likely influenced his creative process. Upon returning to civilian life in 1947, Schulz pursued his artistic talents, eventually creating “Peanuts” in 1950. The themes of camaraderie, resilience, and everyday struggles often found in “Peanuts” may subtly reflect Schulz’s experiences and observations during his time in the military, adding depth to the seemingly simple comic strip.
Ice-T: From Infantryman to Law & Order Star
Promotional photo of Ice-T for Law & Order: SVU.
Ice-T, known for his roles in music and “Law & Order: SVU,” took a path from the streets to the Army before finding fame. Enlisting in the Army to support his young family, Tracy Marrow (Ice-T’s birth name) served four years in the 25th Infantry Division. During his deployment to Hawaii, he rose to the rank of squad leader at Schofield Barracks, gaining leadership experience in a structured environment. After his military service, Ice-T’s life took a turn towards music and entertainment. His time in the Army instilled discipline and broadened his perspectives, qualities that likely contributed to his multifaceted and enduring career in the entertainment industry.
Mr. T: The A-Team’s Sergeant with Military Police Roots
Mr. T on the set of "The A-Team" TV show in 1984.
Mr. T, famous for his role as Sgt. B.A. Baracus in “The A-Team,” had real-life military experience as a Military Policeman. Born Laurence Tureaud, he enlisted in the Army in 1975, joining the Military Police Corps. While details of his specific duties are less publicized, his MP background aligns perfectly with his tough-guy persona and his role as an Army veteran on television. Prior to his acting career, Mr. T worked as a bouncer and bodyguard, skills that may have been honed by his military police training. His transition from military service to bodyguarding and then acting showcases a life journey marked by strength and resilience, mirroring the characters he often portrays.
Gene Wilder: From Paramedic to Willy Wonka
Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka in "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory" in 1971.
Gene Wilder, beloved for his whimsical roles like Willy Wonka, served in the U.S. Army as a paramedic. Drafted in 1956, Jerome Silberman (Gene Wilder’s birth name) was assigned to the Department of Psychiatry and Neurology at Valley Forge Army Hospital. This unique role exposed him to the human condition in a different light, potentially influencing his nuanced and empathetic acting style. During his service, Wilder began exploring acting, taking classes in New York City. His honorable discharge in 1958 marked the beginning of his celebrated acting career, a path that might have been subtly shaped by his experiences as a paramedic in the Army.
These are just a few examples of the many celebrities who have served in the armed forces. Their stories highlight the diverse paths individuals take before achieving fame and underscore the lasting impact of military service. For these celebrities, their time in uniform not only served their country but also contributed to shaping the individuals they became, influencing their careers and perspectives in profound ways. Their dedication both to their nation and their craft serves as an inspiring testament to the multifaceted lives of those who have worn the uniform.
