Burt Lancaster – U.S. Army

After he dropped out of New York University and joined the Kay Brothers circus, Burt Lancaster then went on to join the United States Army in 1942. During his military days, he was in charge of following the troops around and providing entertainment with the 21st Special Services Division. Burt was later nominated for an Oscar four times, winning one for Elmer Gantry in 1960. After two heart attacks and a coronary bypass, Burt suffered a stroke which left him paralyzed. He died of a third heart attack on November 30, 1990.