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.
J.R.R. Tolkien
J.R.R. Tolkien was an English poet and writer, best known for his fantastical works, “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings.” Tolkien is a war veteran and served with the British Expeditionary Force during World War I as Second Lieutenant in the 11th Battalion. He saw many bloody battles, including the Battle of Somme. Ultimately his poor health would end his war days. Tolkien was sent home after he contracted a chronic fever from lice that infested him.