Did John Dutton Serve in the Military?
John Dutton, the patriarch of the Dutton family in the popular television series Yellowstone, is a complex and intriguing character. His life has been shrouded in mystery, leaving fans wondering about his past. One of the most pressing questions is: did John Dutton serve in the military?
A Brief Background on John Dutton
Before diving into John Dutton’s military service, it’s essential to understand his character and the world he inhabits. John Dutton is a sixth-generation rancher who owns the largest contiguous ranch in the United States, located in Montana. He is a proud Montanan and a fierce protector of his family, his land, and his way of life. Throughout the series, John’s past is slowly revealed, giving audiences a glimpse into his experiences and shaping his present-day actions.
The Initial Answer: No, John Dutton Did Not Serve in the Military
According to the show’s creator, Taylor Sheridan, John Dutton did not serve in the military. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Sheridan stated, "John Dutton never served in the military. He’s not a veteran." This clarification comes from the show’s creator himself, providing us with a definitive answer to our question.
Arguments For and Against John Dutton’s Military Service
Despite the creator’s affirmation, some fans have questioned the possibility of John Dutton’s military service. Here are some arguments for and against:
Arguments For John Dutton’s Military Service:
• John’s Age: When the series begins, John Dutton is in his mid-60s. However, if he served in the military, it would mean he enlisted during a period of war or conflict. This could have an impact on his age, making him appear younger.
• John’s Knowledge and Skills: John demonstrates exceptional knowledge of combat tactics, strategy, and even military technology. Some viewers believe this expertise could only have been acquired through military service.
• John’s Posture and Demeanor: John exudes confidence and authority, which are traits often developed through military training and experience.
Arguments Against John Dutton’s Military Service:
• Show-Induced Clues: The show’s narrative provides subtle hints that contradict John’s military service. For example, his inability to shoot straight in his younger years and his struggle to discipline his children imply a lack of military background.
• Character Psychology: John’s character psychology is rooted in his cowboy heritage and ranching legacy. His personality, skills, and values are better explained by his ranching background than by military service.
• Creator Confirmation: As mentioned earlier, Taylor Sheridan explicitly stated that John Dutton did not serve in the military, making it unlikely that John’s military service is being concealed or misrepresented.
Conclusion
Based on the available information and creator confirmation, it is clear that John Dutton did not serve in the military. While some fans may have argued otherwise, the evidence points to John’s experiences being shaped by his ranching heritage and family legacy rather than military service.
