Was tom hanks in the military?

Was Tom Hanks in the Military?

Tom Hanks, the renowned American actor, filmmaker, and philanthropist, has had a successful career spanning over four decades. With a plethora of iconic roles under his belt, including Forrest Gump, Apollo 13, and Cast Away, he has become a household name. But, have you ever wondered if Tom Hanks served in the military? Let’s dive into the answer.

Yes, Tom Hanks Did Serve in the Military!

Tom Hanks was indeed a member of the United States Army. In 1979, he enlisted in the Army Reserve as a commissioned officer in the United States Army Reserve. He chose to serve in the Military Police Corps, specifically the 310th Military Police Company, based in Atlanta, Georgia.

What Led Tom Hanks to Join the Military?

Tom Hanks has always been fascinated by the military and its history. He has often spoken about how his grandfather, who was a Coast Guardsman, inspired him to join the military. Additionally, Hanks has stated that he wanted to gain discipline and structure in his life, which he believed would help him become a better actor.

Hanks’ Military Experience

As a member of the Military Police Corps, Tom Hanks was responsible for duties such as patrolling the streets, conducting traffic control, and providing security at military bases. During his time in the Army Reserve, Hanks reached the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Hanks’ Military Service During the Gulf War

In 1991, during the Gulf War, Tom Hanks was activated for active duty and served in Saudi Arabia. He spent 12 weeks in the Middle East, where he was responsible for maintaining law and order and providing security for military personnel.

How Did Tom Hanks’ Military Experience Influence His Career?

Tom Hanks’ military experience has had a significant impact on his career. It has influenced his portrayal of military characters, such as in the films Saving Private Ryan and The Thin Red Line. Additionally, his military background has helped him to better understand and portray the experiences of military personnel.

Facts About Tom Hanks’ Military Service

Here are some interesting facts about Tom Hanks’ military service:

Conclusion

Tom Hanks’ military service is an often-overlooked aspect of his life, but it has had a profound impact on his career and personal life. By serving in the military, Hanks gained valuable experience and discipline, which have helped him to become one of the most respected actors in Hollywood.