Frank Kennedy's life was marked by a remarkable 31-year tenure in the military, spanning various forms and conflicts. His military career commenced with the United States Cavalry in the late 1930s, before transitioning to the Air Corp during World War II. He continued to serve in the Air Reserve until 1951, when he was recalled for the Korean Conflict.
Throughout his military service, Frank Kennedy achieved numerous milestones, including earning the distinction of becoming an Air Force Senior parachutist, with an impressive 43 jumps to his credit. He also executed three amphibious landings in the Pacific, demonstrating his versatility and bravery.
Frank's military career was punctuated by a plethora of awards and decorations, including the Silver Star, three Bronze Stars, and six Air Medals. This impressive array of accolades is a testament to his unwavering dedication and service to his country.
After retiring from the military in 1966 as a Lieutenant Colonel, following his stint in Vietnam, Frank Kennedy redirected his energies towards the entertainment industry. He became a long-time member of the Screen Actors Guild and co-founded Tucson Central Casting company in 1967.
As an actor, Frank worked sporadically, providing thousands of extras and locations for feature films, television movies, television series, commercials, and educational films. He took great pride in his collaborations with numerous icons of the industry, including Paul Newman, John Wayne, Lee Marvin, Elizabeth Taylor, John Huston, Burt Kennedy, Frank Sinatra, George Kennedy, Clint Eastwood, and William Holden.
One notable anecdote from Frank's early days in the military is his attendance at Air Cadet School alongside William Holden during World War II. This experience not only forged a lasting bond between the two but also provided a glimpse into the camaraderie and esprit de corps that defined Frank's military career.
Frank Kennedy's life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to service, his versatility, and his dedication to his craft. His legacy continues to inspire and influence those who had the privilege of knowing him or working alongside him in the entertainment industry.
