VETERANS DAY MOVIES GUIDE: 5 CHARACTERS YOU DIDN'T KNOW WERE VETERANS
Veterans Day can be a great day to get some family and/or friend time into your life. But what is there to do on Veterans Day? Being in November, it’s starting to get cold outside for many people. We have a solution: Veterans Day movies. Movies are a great way to spend time with family and friends, and a great way to celebrate Veterans Day is to watch some movies featuring military characters. With all these movies with Veterans in them, there’s definitely something everyone can enjoy. Read next:Find the Funniest Veteran Day Meme Here
Veterans Day Movies With Veteran Characters
Some of the most iconic movie characters are also Veterans. Many of these characters served in the military before the movies took place, but in most cases, their military service definitely influences the characters. These movie Veterans have brought more attention to real-life Veterans in media and entertainment. Below are some movie characters you might not have known were Veterans, as well as some other iconic military characters.
Secret Movie Veterans
1. George Taylor in 'Planet of the Apes'
Did you know that George Taylor, the astronaut in this sci-fi classic, is a Veteran? He was a fighter pilot in the Army during WWII and the Korean War. With his background and skills in flying, he was chosen to be the first astronaut in the ANSA program (the fictional NASA).
2. Harry Callahan in 'Dirty Harry'
Harry Callahan is not a very sentimental man. Known for his relentless attitude, many of those who’ve seen Dirty Harry will probably not be surprised to learn that Harry was a Marine. In some of the later Dirty Harry movies, it becomes obvious, but for those who’ve only seen one, it might be a bit of a surprise.
3. Bryan Mills in 'Taken'
This movie Veteran is known for his famous line, “I will look for you, I will find you, and I will kill you.” Before his time as a CIA agent, Bryan Mills served in the Army and even joined the Special Forces at 23.
4. Sam Quint in 'Jaws'
Though Quint’s Navy service isn’t exactly kept a secret in Jaws, his speech is still bone-chilling. Sam served in the Navy during WWII; his ship was the one that delivered the atomic bomb that was later dropped on Hiroshima. Only a fraction of the crew survived.
5. John Wick in 'John Wick'
Though it has never been confirmed if John Wick is a Veteran, many people would argue that he is. With his fighting style and his “fortune favors the brave” back tattoo, fans are adamant that Wick is likely a U.S. Marine Veteran. Maybe with future installments, this hypothesis will be confirmed!
Iconic Military Characters
These “secret” movie Veterans will probably not come as a surprise to most people. So let's take a look at some military characters that everyone knows and loves.
6. Lieutenant Dan Taylor in 'Forrest Gump'
Not a lot is known about Lieutenant Dan’s history, but what is known is that he’s one of the most beloved military characters there is. He served as Forrest’s platoon leader, and they became great comrades throughout the film. Many Veterans can relate to the respect Forrest had for his first CO.
7. Lieutenant (j.g.) Nick “Goose” Bradshaw in 'Top Gun'
Every member of the military has that one very best friend they make on duty. In Top Gun, the relationship between Maverick and Goose is one that many Veterans can relate to. This movie would be great for a Veteran movie night to reminisce on old friendships.
8. Adrian Cronauer in 'Good Morning, Vietnam'
This character is based on a real person, and Adrian Cronauer still did a lot for the military during the Vietnam War. His innovative style brought a lot of inspiration to those serving in Vietnam, and he won a handful of awards for his service. All these movies are great options for a Veterans Day movie night. With a combination of some great military classics and awesome action-packed films, there’s something for everyone with these Veterans Day movies. Instead of going out on a cold November night and heating up the grill, try settling down on the couch with some popcorn, a cold beer, and some good company to make this holiday a memorable one. See also:11 of the Best Military Movies in 2022 To Binge-Watch Now
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