Artists around the world often show unwavering support and respect for their country’s military, especially during times of war when soldiers are defending their homeland and its values. Each artist has their own way of showing this support, whether it’s through moral encouragement and motivational speeches, financial contributions to war efforts, or artistic portrayals of their military’s heroism and sacrifices in films or other creative forms. For some, this support went even further as they chose to join the military themselves, risking their lives on the battlefield during their service.

Here, we explore some American artists who went beyond words and donations, volunteering and serving in the military in a way that deserves the admiration of their fellow citizens.

Gene Hackman

Known for his role as Captain Frank Ramsey in the war film “Behind Enemy Lines,” Gene Hackman actually spent his teenage years in military service. Hackman dropped out of high school and joined the U.S. Marine Corps at the age of 16, lying about his age to enlist. After completing his training, he served as a radio operator in China and later in Hawaii, spending nearly five years in the Marines. After leaving the military, he took on various jobs to support himself, and it wasn’t until about a decade later that he began his acting career.

Elvis Presley

The King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, took a break from his rising music career to become one of America’s most famous draftees. He joined the Army on March 24, 1958, and spent six months training at Fort Hood in Texas before sailing to Europe. He spent the next eighteen months as part of the 3rd Armored Division, “Spearhead,” in Friedberg, Germany. It was during this time that he met Priscilla Beaulieu, whom he later married. Due to his efforts in the Army, he was promoted to sergeant in February 1960, and about a month later, he was honorably discharged from active duty.

Chuck Norris

Before becoming the star of countless action films and the popular TV series “Walker, Texas Ranger,” Chuck Norris joined the Air Force after graduating from high school in 1958. He served as a Security Police officer with the U.S. Air Force, hoping to pursue a career in law enforcement. His service took him to South Korea, where he learned martial arts, a skill that later helped him become one of the greatest action movie stars in the world. After returning to the United States, Norris served at March Air Force Base until he was discharged in 1962.

Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix, one of the most talented guitarists of all time, also served in the U.S. Army. In 1961, at the age of 19, Hendrix was given a choice between prison or joining the military after being caught for car theft. He chose the latter and received military training in California before being assigned to the 101st Airborne Division. After about a year, Hendrix was honorably discharged, allowing him to focus on his music career.

Humphrey Bogart

Humphrey Bogart, one of the greatest actors in Hollywood history and an icon of classic American cinema, was another celebrity who volunteered for military service. The sea was his first passion, and at the age of 18, he decided to join the U.S. Navy in 1918. There are some reports that the scar on his face was caused by a German attack on his ship, the USS Leviathan, which he served on during World War I, transporting troops from Europe to the United States. He was discharged in 1919, and when World War II broke out, Bogart attempted to re-enlist, but his request was denied due to his age.

Hugh Hefner

Although he is most famous as the founder of Playboy magazine, few people know that Hugh Hefner served in the Army during World War II. Shortly after graduating from high school, he enlisted in the Army as a clerk in the infantry. He also made a mark as a cartoonist for various military newspapers. After two years of service, Hefner was discharged in 1946 and continued his work as a cartoonist, eventually founding Playboy.

Clint Eastwood

The tough guy on screen, Clint Eastwood, has left an indelible mark on the film industry as one of the greatest actors and directors. He is the last on our list of tough men who served in the military. Eastwood joined the Army along with other Americans who volunteered during the Korean War, working as a swimming instructor at Fort Ord, California. A notable event during his military days was surviving a plane crash and swimming a mile to shore. He remained stationed at Fort Ord until his discharge in 1953, shortly after which he began his illustrious acting career.

These stories of famous actors and musicians who served in the military remind us of the sacrifices made by many, even those with burgeoning careers, to serve their country in times of need. Their contributions, both on the battlefield and in the arts, continue to inspire respect and admiration.