When we read about our favorite celebrities, we normally find out details about their other professional activities or their love life. There are many A-listers though who, before building their huge net worth, had to serve in the US Army. Some did it to make some money in times when they struggled financially, while others wore the Army’s uniform to serve their country in times of war. Luckily, most of your favorite stars returned home safe and sound, and they were able to tell their story. Most of them loved the military, and some found themselves carrying a rifle out of nowhere! Are you ready?

Gene Hackman – US Marines

While many famous actors take pride in their time as soldiers, Gene Hackman wasn’t too happy about joining the US Marines in 1946. His father had left the house and his mother battled with alcohol abuse. Hackman needed to leave home, so he lied about his age to become a Marine. In 1947, he was sent to China, where he mostly served as a radio operator. He was later sent to Hawaii, but as he claimed, he got demoted three times, as he had issues compromising with authority and discipline.

Owen Wilson – New Mexico Military Institute

Our beloved funny guy, Owen Wilson, once joined the New Mexico Military Institute. It’s kind of hard to believe, right? Imagining Wilson in a military uniform seems a bit hilarious, as this man is a moving accident! He probably had the same opinion, and he never completed his studies, nor did he continue his military training. After leaving the military institute, the renowned actor attended the University of Texas, where he studied Arts. Really Wilson, what were you thinking exactly? You were born for comedy! Well, maybe he just wanted to have a taste.

Rock Hudson – US Navy

Rock Hudson joined the US Navy in 1944, just when he had graduated from high school. We don’t know if he did it to increase his earnings or if it was a voluntary action, but in any case, he received his training at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station. Soon after, he boarded the military transport ship Lew Wallace, where he was later sent to the Philippines, where he served as an aircraft mechanic. He was discharged in 1946 when he had already returned to America. It was only after that that he decided to take upon acting!