Hollywood’s Hidden Heroes: You Won’t Believe Which Celebrities Served in the Military!
Ernest Borgnine – Gunner’s Mate 1st Class, Navy
Ernest Borgnine, the tough-guy actor with a heart of gold, had a robust career in the Navy before Hollywood beckoned. This Oscar-winning star, known for his roles in classics like “Marty” and “McHale’s Navy,” served with distinction in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Enlisting in 1935, he was initially discharged in 1941 but reenlisted after Pearl Harbor.
Ernest saw action in the Pacific aboard the destroyer USS Lamberton. He rose through the ranks, earning the position of Gunner’s Mate 1st Class by the time he left in 1945. His naval service, marked by bravery and dedication, shaped his gritty on-screen persona, making him an unforgettable icon.