It’s easy to think of celebrities as untouchables living in their own world, but did you know that some of Hollywood’s biggest stars have served in the military? From actors to comedians to musicians, there are a number of celebrities who have served their country in the military and we’d like to recognize them here. Read on to learn more about the five Hollywood stars who have served in the military and their inspiring stories.
Chuck Norris – served in the U.S
Chuck Norris, one of the most beloved Hollywood stars, is also a Vietnam War veteran. He served in the United States Air Force as an Air Policeman in 1958-1962. During his time in the military, Norris had achieved the rank of Airman First Class and also earned a black belt in the martial art of Tang Soo Do. After his service, Norris founded two martial art schools and appeared in several martial art films. He then went on to star in a number of action films, which earned him worldwide fame. His successful acting career has made him an icon in the entertainment industry and his service in the military will never be forgotten.
Air Force
Air Force is a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces responsible for conducting aerial operations. Many Hollywood stars have served in the Air Force, proving that you don’t need to be a military expert to join. For example, Clint Eastwood, the famous actor known for his roles in films such as “Dirty Harry” and “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly”, served in the Air Force in the 1950s and was eventually promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant. Other celebrities who served in the Air Force include the legendary singer, Elvis Presley, the iconic actor, Chuck Norris, and the legendary director, Steven Spielberg. By joining the Air Force, these stars showed their commitment to the country, and proved that you can still strive for success in Hollywood while serving in the military.
James Earl Jones – served in the U.S
James Earl Jones is an iconic Hollywood actor and a veteran of the U.S. military. He enlisted in the U.S Army in 1953 and served as a first lieutenant in the Reserve Officer Training Corps. Jones was stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia, and used his military experience to later play military roles in movies. His notable roles include Darth Vader in Star Wars, General Thade in Planet of the Apes, and Colonel Matthew Slaughter in the mini-series Cry Freedom. Jones is a decorated veteran, receiving the National Medal of Arts in 2012 and the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 2020. He is an inspiration for all veterans, showing that dedication to service can lead to success in many different fields.
Army
I’m really impressed by the Hollywood stars who have served in the military. Take for example Mel Gibson who served in the US Army from 1971 to 1973. He was honored as an honorary Veteran of Foreign Wars in 1996. Tom Selleck also served in the Army from 1967 to 1973, rising to the rank of Sergeant. His service was recognized with the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal. Similarly, Clint Eastwood also served in the US Army Reserves from 1951 to 1953. He was honorably discharged as a sergeant. And lastly, Kirk Douglas and Steve McQueen both served in the US Navy during World War II. McQueen was discharged as a private first-class. These Hollywood stars are a great example of what it means to serve in the military and I’m proud of them for doing their duty.
Clint Eastwood – served in the U.S
Clint Eastwood is one of the most iconic actors in Hollywood. He served in the U.S. Army in the 1950s during the Korean War. During his service, he was a lifeguard at Fort Ord in California and was later promoted to swimming instructor. Eastwood’s time in the military was an influential period in his life and he has been vocal about his experiences. His time in the military gave him an appreciation for physical fitness that he has kept throughout his life. He is a renowned example of a Hollywood star who has served in the military and can be seen as a role model for those who have served or are currently serving in the forces.
Army
Who would have thought that some of our favorite Hollywood stars have served in the military? The Army, in particular, has seen a few celebrities pass through its ranks, leaving an indelible mark on the service. From Tom Cruise to Adam Driver, these five Hollywood stars have all served in the Army, in some way or another. Tom Cruise served in the Army for two years and was eventually discharged in 1984. Adam Driver is an active duty soldier in the Army and is a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. Mel Gibson served in the Army Reserve and was honorably discharged in 1972. Ice-T served in the Army for four years and was a member of the 25th Infantry Division. Clint Eastwood also served in the Army Reserve and was an honorary member of the Special Forces. These five Hollywood stars have all served in the Army in some way or another, and their service is a testament to their dedication to their country and their commitment to the military.
Mel Gibson – served in the U.S
Mel Gibson is an iconic Hollywood star who has served in the U.S military. He enlisted in the U.S Army Reserve in the late 1970s and served for five years until he was discharged in the early 1980s. During his service, he was stationed in Fort Rucker in Alabama and received several awards and decorations, including the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal. Gibson has been very vocal about his time in the military and has said that it was a great experience that helped him become the man he is today. He also believes that it gave him a better understanding of human relationships and an increased appreciation of the world.
Army
Serving in the Army is a noble and courageous act, and many Hollywood stars have done their part. Tom Cruise and Adam Driver are two of the most recognizable faces who have served in the military. Cruise was an infantryman in the U.S. Navy, while Driver was a Lance Corporal in the Marines. Even though they both had successful acting careers, they still chose to serve their country. Not to mention, Ice-T was also in the Army, and he’s now famous for his roles in Law and Order and Ice Loves Coco. Many may not know, but Chuck Norris was a member of the U.S. Air Force too, and he still is an American action icon. Lastly, the one and only Harrison Ford served in the Nebraska Air National Guard, and he’s now famous for his roles in Star Wars and Indiana Jones. All these stars have served the country and made a name for themselves in Hollywood.
Bea Arthur – served in the U.S
Bea Arthur was a beloved actress who starred in The Golden Girls. But many people don’t know that she also served in the US military during WWII. As a young woman she joined the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve and rose to the rank of Truck Driver. She put her famous wit and humor to use as a typist and was even the head of a training battalion. After the end of the war, she returned to her civilian life and went on to become one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. Her service to her country is a testament to her courage, strength, and commitment to doing the right thing.
Marine Corps
There are many Hollywood stars who have served in the military, and the Marine Corps is no exception. One of the most famous celebrities to have ever served in the Marine Corps is actor R Lee Ermey. He served in Vietnam and was promoted to Staff Sergeant. He later became known for his role in Full Metal Jacket as Gunnery Sgt Hartman. Other stars who have served in the Marine Corps include Clint Eastwood, Adam Driver, and Nick Nolte. All of these actors have served proudly, and they can be an inspiration to young people everywhere. The Marine Corps is a respected branch of the military, and these Hollywood stars have honored it with their service.
