Hollywood Heroes of WWII: Jimmy Stewart’s Military Journey
Many Hollywood actors have played military roles on screen, but few have actually served as ground, air, and naval personnel during WWII. One such hero is the legendary Jimmy Stewart, who not only starred in iconic films but also volunteered for military service, showcasing exceptional bravery and patriotism. This article delves into Jimmy Stewart's remarkable military career during the Second World War.
A Legendary Actor’s Military Service
Jimmy Stewart is celebrated as a fabled actor known for his roles as a military officer, cowboy, band leader, businessman, and politician. However, fewer are aware of his stirring military career, which spanned two decisive years during the greatest conflict of the 20th century.
Jimmy Stewart joined the Army Air Corps on February 12, 1941. Despite his tall stature and lean build, he passed the necessary physical examination and began his military career as a private. Stewart, deeply interested in aviation since childhood, received his civilian pilot's license in 1935 and bought his own plane. This background proved invaluable for his military training and eventual combat missions.
From Private to Brigadier General
Stewart's military journey began in March 1941 when he reported to duty at Fort McArthur, California. He was assigned to the Army Air Corps and required 100 additional flying hours at his own expense to meet Air Corps proficiency standards. In January 1942, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant and sent to Mather Field in California as a four-engine instructor, educating pilots on the B-17 and B-24 heavy bombers.
After nearly two years of stations stateside, Stewart's request to be sent overseas was finally granted. In November 1943, he arrived in England as a Captain and Operations Officer for the 703rd Bomb Squadron of the 445th Bombardment Group of the Eighth Air Force. Here, he led many combat missions over enemy territory, including raids on Berlin, Brunswick, Bremen, Frankfurt, and Schweinfurt.
Airborne Heroes: The 445th Bombardment Group
The 445th Bombardment Group, with its 700th, 701st, 702nd, and 703rd Bomb Squadrons, played a pivotal role in the Allied Air Offensive. From April 1943 to May 1945, they flew a total of 280 combat missions against strategic targets across occupied Europe. Notable among their achievements was the December 1944 Battle of the Bulge, where they supported Patton's 3rd Army by delivering supplies and ordnance to equipped troops. For their outstanding service, the 445th was awarded the Distinguished Unit Citation and the French Croix de Guerre with Palm.
Stewart’s Notable Achievements and Decorations
Stewart's military service was filled with commendations and honors. He flew as lead pilot in B-24 Liberators and executed 20 combat missions. Among his awards, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, and the French Croix de Guerre with Palm.
His outstanding contributions to the war effort led to his promotion to Colonel by the end of the war. Post-war, he remained with the US Air Force Reserves and was eventually promoted to Brigadier General in 1959. A notable event in his later service was his participation in a bombing strike in Vietnam as an observer on a B-52 bomber in 1966.
Post-War Hollywood Career
Returning to Hollywood, Stewart embraced his civilian life, spending a brief vacation with his parents before resuming his acting career. In 1946, he starred in Its a Wonderful Life, which became an instant classic. Stewart continued to act and direct, leaving an indelible mark on the world of film.
Award and Recognition
Stewart's immense contributions to the military and society were recognized with several of the highest U.S. honors. In 1968, he received the Distinguished Service Medal, and in 1985, the Presidential Medal of Freedom was awarded posthumously.
Sources
For those interested in learning more about Jimmy Stewart’s military career and the 445th Bomb Group, several resources are available. A comprehensive book titled Stars in Uniform: Jimmy Stewart in the Military is highly recommended, written by Starr Smith with a forward by Walter Cronkite. This book provides a deep dive into Stewart’s military life from his enlistment to his later promotions.
Further Resources
To explore the rich history of the 445th Bomb Group, the aim of the 445th Bomb Group website is to honor and remember the brave men who served under its command.