The many celebrities who were in the military are those who signed up to make the ultimate sacrifice for their countries. Through the years, many famous people have served in the military. While some were drafted, others enlisted voluntarily, and some even joined up multiple times. Many actors from the golden era of Hollywood served during World War II. The Vietnam War was also a popular era for actors who were in the military.
Many famous American military veterans went on to have illustrious careers in the entertainment industry. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly actor Clint Eastwood served in the US Army during the Korean War and almost died when he was involved in a plane crash. The plane landed in the ocean near Fort Ord, CA, and Eastwood was able to swim to safety. Some 40 years later, he won his first Oscar for directing Unforgiven. Other prolific actors who have served in the military include Paul Newman, Morgan Freeman, and Chuck Norris.
Some surprising celebs also served in the military, including musicians and rocks stars. Grateful Dead guitarist Jerry Garcia joined the US Army, but left the military 9 months later to study at the Art Institute of San Francisco. Other surprising military men include Tool front man Maynard James Keenan, comedian Drew Carey, and rapper Ice-T.
Do you think that serving in the military gave these famous people the discipline they needed to succeed in their careers? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
70+ Celebrities Who Were in the Military,
Bill Cosby
Bill Cosby joined the Navy and worked as a hospital corpsman.
Chuck Norris
Chuck Norris served in the US Airforce.
Clint Eastwood
"Million Dollar Baby" director Clint Eastwood was drafted by the US Army during the Korean War.
Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley joined the US Army in 1958.
Hugh Hefner
"Playboy" creator Hugh Hefner served as a military newspaper writer in the US Army.
Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix joined the Army after being caught stealing cars. He was given the choice of Army or prison.
Marvin Gaye
Musician Marvin Gaye enlisted in the US Air Force, but was discharged after he faked a mental illness.
Morgan Freeman
"Bucket List" Morgan Freeman served in the US Air Force.
Oliver Stone
Oliver Stone served in the Vietnam War, and made Platoon based on his experiences.
Pat Sajak
"Wheel of Fortune" host Pat Sajak served in the US Army during the Vietnam War.