Was James Garner in the Military?
James Garner, the iconic American actor, best known for his roles in the TV series "Maverick" and "The Rockford Files", had a military background that greatly influenced his life and career. But did he serve in the military?
Early Life and Background
Born James Scott Baumgarner on April 7, 1928, in Norman, Oklahoma, James Garner grew up during the Great Depression and World War II. His early life was marked by hardship and tragedy, with his father, W.C. Baumgarner, abandoning the family when Garner was just four years old. His mother, Mildred Guffey Baumgarner, later married Joseph Garland Weldon, who raised Garner and his siblings as his own.
World War II Service
After dropping out of high school in the ninth grade, Garner joined the United States Army in 1947, enlisting as a private. He served with the 5th Ranger Battalion in Japan and later in the Philippines, where he saw action during the Korean War.
Military Records and Honors
According to Garner’s military records, he earned the Purple Heart for his injuries during a mortar attack in the Philippines in 1952. He was also awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge for his participation in the Korean War. Garner was honorably discharged from the Army in 1952, with a rank of Private First Class.
Civilian Life and Acting Career
After his military service, Garner began his acting career, taking on various stage and television roles. He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Bret Maverick in the 1957-1962 TV series "Maverick" and went on to star in several other notable shows, including "The Rockford Files" and "8 Simple Rules".
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Garner married actress Lois Clarke in 1956, and the couple had two children together. He was an active philanthropist, supporting various charities, including the American Cancer Society, the American Red Cross, and the Jimmy Fund. Garner was also a dedicated golfer and an avid fisherman, often sharing his love of the outdoors through his film and television appearances.
Conclusion
To answer the question: Was James Garner in the military? Yes, James Garner served in the United States Army from 1947 to 1952, participating in the Korean War and earning several honors, including the Purple Heart and Combat Infantryman Badge. His military service and experiences undoubtedly shaped his life and career, influencing the characters he played and the values he upheld.
Military Statistics and Facts
Here are some key military statistics and facts about James Garner’s service:
- Branch of Service: United States Army
- Enlistment Date: 1947
- Honorable Discharge Date: 1952
- Rank: Private First Class
- Battle/War Participations: Korean War, World War II (service in Japan and the Philippines)
- Awards and Decorations: Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, etc.
Here is a summary of James Garner’s military service:
| Event | Year | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Enlistment | 1947 | |
| Korean War | 1950-1953 | Korea, Philippines |
| Injuries/Medical | 1952 | Philippines |
| Honorable Discharge | 1952 |
Sources:
- James Garner’s Official Website
- Biography.com: James Garner
- FindAGrave: James Garner
- History.com: Korean War
In conclusion, James Garner’s military service played a significant role in shaping his life and career. His experiences during the Korean War and his eventual honorable discharge had a lasting impact on his personal life and his performances on stage and screen.
