Was John Wayne Ever in the Military?
John Wayne, one of the most iconic and beloved Hollywood legends, was a prominent figure in the American film industry for nearly six decades. But how many people know that before becoming a legendary actor, John Wayne, whose birth name was Marion Robert Morrison, served in the U.S. Army?
In this article, we’ll delve into John Wayne’s military background, exploring whether he ever served in the military, and what we can learn from his experience.
Early Life and Education
Born on May 26, 1907, in Winterset, Iowa, Marion Robert Morrison grew up with a passion for the arts. He attended Glendale High School in California and later studied pre-law at the University of Southern California (USC), although he didn’t graduate. During his college days, Morrison worked as a laborer and a radio newsreel announcer.
Military Service
When the United States entered World War II, Morrison signed up for the U.S. Army on July 25, 1935. He was initially rejected due to his flat feet, but he underwent treatments to correct the condition, and was eventually accepted as a private in the Coast Artillery Corps.
Military Career
After completing basic training, Private Morrison was assigned to Fort McDermott in California, where he became a radio operator. During his time in the Coast Artillery Corps, he rose to the rank of sergeant.
- Sergeant, Coast Artillery Corps
| Date | Rank |
|---|---|
| July 1935 | Private |
| February 1936 | Sergeant |
Morrison spent most of his military service in California, and on March 23, 1937, he was honorably discharged, having completed his two years of active duty.
Post-War Life
After leaving the military, Morrison continued to pursue a career in acting, ultimately changing his name to John Wayne in 1932. His early film credits included bit parts in pictures such as The Big Trail (1930) and The Three Marx Brothers in Alibi (1931).
Wayne’s experience in the military significantly shaped his views on patriotism and his on-screen portrayals of rugged, no-nonsense heroes. He used his military background as a springboard for his roles in The Longest Day (1962), The Green Berets (1968), and The Cowboys (1972).
Impact on his acting career
John Wayne’s military experience had a significant impact on his acting career:
• Character selection: Wayne often chose to play characters with military or patriotic backgrounds, drawing upon his own experiences and adding authenticity to his performances.
• On-screen authority: His military service allowed him to bring a commanding presence to his on-screen roles, making him believable as a leader or action hero.
• Connection to American values: John Wayne’s military service reflected his commitment to American values, such as duty, honor, and sacrifice. This connection resonated with audiences, solidifying his status as an American legend.
Conclusion
While John Wayne’s Hollywood legend is deeply rooted in his iconic film roles, his military service is equally significant. From enlisting in the U.S. Army to serving as a sergeant in the Coast Artillery Corps, John Wayne’s military career laid the foundation for the character roles that would eventually make him a household name.
In this article, we’ve explored whether John Wayne ever served in the military, delving into his early life, education, and military experience. As we’ve seen, John Wayne’s military background shaped his views on patriotism and influenced his acting career in profound ways.
Was John Wayne ever in the military? The answer is unequivocally yes, and his military service deserves recognition and appreciation for the impact it had on both his life and career.
Additional Resources
- "John Wayne" by Scott Eyman, published by Simon & Schuster, 2015.
- "Wings of the Sun, Wings of the West: The World War II Saga of John Wayne" by John H. M. Clark, published by McFarland, 2015.
