From Betty White's volunteer service during World War II to Audie Murphy's three Purple Hearts, these famous veterans served their country before they became household names.

Before they commanded the silver screen, the world stage, or the baseball diamond, many of America’s most iconic figures commanded troops, flew combat missions, or served in the quiet, crucial roles that support a nation at war. Some of these famous veterans are household names — and you may not have even known that they served their countries.

Military service helped shape the future careers of these celebrities, artists, and leaders. Bob Ross developed the quiet, calm demeanor he was known for after vowing never to shout again after two decades in the Air Force. And some of Drew Carey’s earliest audiences for his

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