Bob Ross
For those of you who know Bob Ross, then you’ve probably seen, heard, or even tried to place a few of those simple trees in your own artwork. Maybe you’ve found yourself deep in trances by his soothing soft voice. You may have even heard him mention stays in Alaska. Do you know why? One thing for sure, I bet many of you never pegged Bob Ross to have served in the military, nonetheless climb the ranks of the Air Force to achieve Master Sergeant, where yes he screamed, yelled, and drilled in some of the most demanding ways. No longer wanting to be that “guy,” Ross found himself starting his world renowned show, shortly after leaving the service.
Buster Keaton
Buster Keaton, drafted into the 40th Infantry Division in 1917, was already active in vaudeville when he entered the Army. He continued to perform vaudeville while he was in the service– his “Snake Dance,” in which he “charmed” a rope of sausage links, became a popular, frequently-requested act. This act was so well-received by one general that he lent his car and driver to Keaton. He had the driver stop at a party of his enlisted buddies and because of the general’s insignia on the car, Keaton’s pals thought they getting a surprise inspection.
Gene Kelly
Funny man, actor, director, writer, let’s just say the whole package, Carl Reiner is best known for his show where he was the producer, writer, and actor of The Dick Van Dyke Show, which is only one of his many accomplishments. During the 1940’s the draft had all hands on deck and Reiner was drafted into the Army Air Force in 1943, where he unintendedly would climb to obtain corporal.