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Birthdays today James Maitland Stewart (May 20, 1908 – July 2, 1997). In October 1940, Stewart was drafted into the United States Army but was rejected for failing to meet the weight requirements for his height for new recruits—Stewart was five pounds (2.3 kg) under the standard. To get up to 143 pounds, he sought out the help of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's muscle man and trainer Don Loomis, who was noted for his ability to help people add or subtract pounds in his studio gymnasium. Stewart subsequently attempted to enlist in the Air Corps, but still came in underweight, although he persuaded the enlistment officer to run new tests, this time passing the weigh-in, with the result that Stewart enlisted and was inducted in the Army on March 22, 1941. He became the first major American movie star to wear a military uniform in World War II. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Stewart
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WWII World War Two
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Military History
Hollywood
Posted >1 y ago
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From PV1 to BG ... He was a "star" who earned a Star. BG Stewart was the epitome of humility and selfless service. He's been one of my favorite actors since I first saw Harvey. I wish the instant fame seeking, viral video, YouTubing, snapchatters out there had one millionth of the humility BG Stewart possessed.
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SMSgt Lawrence McCarter
Yes, and as an enlisted Man He held the ranks of Pvt, PFC and Corporal, as an Officer held all the ranks from 2nd Lieutenant to Brigadier General.
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Great story, thanks for sharing. SGT John " Mac " McConnell There were a lot of Vets in the Stewart era. Hats off to them.
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Correct LTC, there were many bad *sses that became actors and gained fame though other means......Ironic that in Frank Capra's movie "It's a Wonderful Life" his Brother was the war hero.
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