Science fiction is a difficult genre to get right, but when Hollywood does get it right, it produces films and television shows that we will happily watch over and over again. It’s worth noting that some of the most significant roles in the history of science fiction were portrayed by military veterans, some of whom drew upon their military experiences for inspiration.
Discover how each of these sci-fi legends’ real-world military experiences contributed to the creation of a science fiction movie or franchise that achieved cult and legendary status.
1. Sir Alec Guinness as “Obi-Wan Kenobi”
Sir Alec Guinness is world-renowned for his exceptional acting ability and the remarkable length of his career, which spanned from the 1930s English stage to the 1990s. He played Obi-Wan Kenobi with a sense of wonder and wisdom. He also served as an officer in the Royal Navy during World War II, commanding a landing craft, infantry, during the Allied invasion of Sicily, known as Operation Husky.
Although Guinness was known to think of Star Wars as “fairy-tale rubbish” because he wasn’t that keen on science fiction, he still did a masterful and memorable portrayal of the wise and hearty Jedi master. He adds to the original trilogy’s watchability factor as the forever sage advisor to young Luke.
2. Leonard Nimoy as “Spock“
Leonard Nimoy brought us the highly logical and cool Spock for the TV show and later film series “Star Trek”. Nimoy also served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 in the Special Services department, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant.
His work showed us a new way to look at beings from other planets and those who would identify as an “other” in our society. He played it with conviction and purpose, even though he was initially skeptical of taking the role. He even named his biographies “I Am Not Spock” and “I Am Spock.”
3. Al Matthews as “Gunnery Sgt. Apone”
Al Matthews gave the world the grittiest and most honest Gunnery Sergeant Apone we could have ever wished for. His lines, bearing, and command presence lend weight to Apone’s character, a weight that only leaves viewers wanting more. It turns out he brought his real-life experiences as a Marine in Vietnam to the role of Apone. Matthews served in the Marine Corps, graduating from Parris Island on May 25, 1966.
“I spent six years in the United States Marine Corps,” he said. “I hold 13 combat awards and decorations, including two Purple Hearts. I was the first Black Marine in the 1st Marine Division in Vietnam to be meritoriously promoted to the rank of sergeant; I served with Kilo Battery, Fourth Battalion, 11th Marines, 1st Marine Division, of that I am very proud.”
4. Roy Scheider in “SeaQuest DSV’
Roy Scheider portrayed authority figures in such films as “The French Connection” and “Jaws.” The father figure persona he had honed in his previous work lent considerable credibility and watchability to the TV show “SeaQuest DSV.” Scheider served in the U.S. Air Force as a first lieutenant in operations from 1955 to 1958. He served in the Air Force Reserve and was promoted to Captain, leaving the Air Force in 1964.
Scheider brought professional work and an aura of being able to handle any situation to the show, which made it memorable to us kids from the 90s. Having a much bigger ship than the one in “Jaws” may have given his character more confidence. He also didn’t have to tangle with Captain Quint.
5. Sam J. Jones as “Flash Gordon”
Sam J. Jones earned his place in science fiction history as the seminal character Flash Gordon in the 1980 film of the same name. This underrated masterwork features an all-star cast, accompanied by a soundtrack performed by Queen, all led by Jones, a private first class who served in the United States Marine Corps from 1972 to 1974.
Although the production was troubled and would-be director George Lucas rejected the project, it has since established itself as a cult classic of science fiction and the 1980s. It’s a fun film to revisit for many reasons, and Jones is one of them.
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