Charles Bronson
Charles Bronson, the bad boy actor from the 1970s, served in the military to earn his tough-guy attitude. He began his adulthood as a member of the US Air Force, flying 25 missions in B-29 bombers. When he was a teenager he learned English, previously only speaking Russian and Lithuanian. While serving, he was injured and received a Purple Heart due to the wounds.
Harry Belafonte
In 1944, the man who would later be called “The King of Calypso” started his long career in the U.S Navy during World War II. He was honorably discharged and became a janitor's assistant. While there, a tenant of his building gave him tickets to a theater. inspired by the performance, Harry used his veteran benefits to study acting and music at The New School.