Sammy Davis Jr. – U.S. Infantry

Sammy Davis Jr. was multitalented. He was a singer, dancer, actor, musician, comedian, and vaudevillian. Davis, who faced racism throughout his life, hoped his time in the U.S. Army would help lessen the prejudice. He served during World War II and was assigned to Special Services. After his time in the military, Davis became a member of Rat Pack led by Frank Sinatra and including three more members. Sammy was a heavy smoker and was diagnosed with throat cancer in 1989. He died two months after the surgery on May 16, 1990, leaving his estate to his wife Altovise Davis, according to his last will.