Top stars who served in the United States Military

Hollywood on the frontline: Did you know these stars served in the United States Military?

Before the spotlight and global fame, some of the world’s most recognisable faces answered a different call - serving their countries with dedication and pride. From icons like the late Elvis Presley to many others, these individuals proved that duty and service can come long before stardom...

Morgan Freeman

In a full circle moment, the Oscar winner - who served in the Air Force back in 1995, after being inspired to join the army through his affinity for war films – returned to duty starring in the 1989 civil war drama Glory.

Tom Selleck

Before his big break in Hollywood, Tom Selleck served as a soldier in the California Army National Guard from 1967 to 1963.

Is it any wonder he played former Navy SEAL Thomas Magnum in Magnum P.I.?

It’s taking method acting to a whole new level.

Clint Eastwood

Before his astonishing career in Hollywood, Clint served in the military.

The legendary actor-and-director was drafted into the US Army during the Korean War, which began in June 1950 and ended in July 1953.

Mel Brooks

At the start of World War II, Mel Brooks joined the Army Specialized Training Reserve program at the Virginia Military Institute before going to basic training at Fort Sill.

Brooks eventually served overseas near the conflict's end.

However, his superiors saw his talent for comedy and performing and Brooks was asked to join a touring variety show to entertain the troops still stationed in camps in Europe.

Johnny Cash

The late country musician was enlisted in the Air Force shortly after graduating high school back in 1950.

Cash served four years, mostly stationed in West Germany.

Cash was inspired to write his song Folsom Prison Blues after seeing the movie Inside the Walls of Folsom Prison (1951) while serving as an intelligence-service radioman in Landsberg.