Happy Independence Day, America! As we take the time to celebrate our freedom, let's not forget the brave men and women who have fought -- and fight today -- to help us retain our rights.
Those from all walks of life have served our country, and that includes faces you may be more used to seeing on film or TV screens! You might be surprised just how many big names were actually U.S. military members first.
Check out the military-themed pics our friends at Snakkle.com have found, to see some surprises in military uniforms.
Owen Wilson at the New Mexico Military Institute
Every good rom-com needs a bad boy with a heart of gold, and long before he headed out to Hollywood, it seems Owen Wilson was preparing for that part.
As a teenager, he was expelled from school for cheating and shipped off to a military academy where his surfer blond locks were buzz-cut close to his scalp. But in case you're wondering if his broken-nose-that-never-quite-healed-right was a result of tactical training gone awry… he insists otherwise.
Morgan Freeman in the Air Force
Morgan Freeman is one of the best actors -- and most recognizable voices -- of our time. But had things gone just a little differently, he might never have become an actor at all!
In 1955, he opted to turn down an acting scholarship to college to instead work for the Air Force. We certainly appreciate his service, but we're also glad that it didn't turn into a lifelong career!
J.R. Martinez in the Army
J.R. Martinez's inspirational story and amazing personality undoubtedly helped him win the title of “Dancing with the Stars” champion last fall.
Initially hoping to play pro football but derailed due to an injury, Martinez enlisted in the United States Army in 2002. Only a few months later, he deployed to Iraq, where his Humvee hit an IED, causing severe burns on over 40 percent of his body. It was Martinez's story that also helped him get a role on “All My Children” as a former soldier injured in combat. And he's now a new dad -- daughter Lauryn was born in May!
Clint Eastwood in the Army
Before he was an award-winning actor and director, Clint Eastwood was drafted into the Army during the Korean War and was discharged in 1953. You have to love a man in uniform!
(And is it just us or did Clint, in his Army days, look a lot like Jude Law? We want to see that movie!)
To see more pics of Stars Who Served, head over to Snakkle.com or click "Launch Gallery" above.
Happy 4th!
