From Boots to Big Screens: Famous UK Veterans You Might Not Know About

Most veterans move on quietly after service – into civilian jobs, family life, or whatever comes next. But some go from the battlefield (or the parade ground) to centre stage. And while we’re proud of every veteran’s journey, these famous faces show just how far that discipline, drive, and determination can take you.

👑 Prince Harry – From Apache Pilot to Invictus Pioneer 

It’s easy to forget amid the headlines, but Prince Harry served two tours in Afghanistan, qualified as an Apache helicopter pilot, and rose to the rank of Captain in the British Army. His experiences led him to found the Invictus Games – a global celebration of the strength and resilience of wounded, injured and sick veterans. A public face of service, and a real advocate for those who’ve come home carrying invisible wounds. 

👑 Prince William – RAF Search and Rescue to Future King 

Before stepping fully into royal duty, Prince William served as a Flight Lieutenant in the Royal Air Force, flying search and rescue missions out of RAF Valley. He later trained as a civilian air ambulance pilot – proving that service was more than symbolic. His time in uniform built real-life skills and shaped his commitment to mental health and veteran welfare causes. 

📺 William Roache – Ken Barlow in Coronation Street 

As the longest-serving soap actor in the world, William Roache is best known for playing Ken Barlow since 1960. But before Weatherfield, he served as a Captain in the Royal Welch Fusiliers during National Service. He credits the Army for helping to shape his outlook – and possibly his patience on set! 

🎤 James Blunt – From Cavalry to Chart-Topper 

Before making a name in music, James Blunt served in the Life Guards, rose to Captain, and deployed to Kosovo as part of NATO peacekeeping. He’s also one of the few pop stars who can say they’ve commanded tanks and shared a stage with Ed Sheeran. His Twitter feed? Still has military-grade precision. 

⚽ Sir Bobby Charlton – National Service and Football Glory 

Before football greatness, Sir Bobby completed National Service in the Royal Army Ordnance Corps. He juggled playing for Manchester United while serving – and went on to become a national treasure. Teamwork, anyone? 

🎭 Sir David Jason – Lovely Jubbly… But Nearly a Pilot 

Yes, Del Boy trained with the Royal Air Force and aimed to become a pilot. A back injury changed that path – but we’re not complaining. He brought us Only Fools and Horses, Open All Hours, and decades of laughter. You could say he landed where he was meant to. 

🎤 Tommy Cooper – Magician, Comedian, Soldier 

Famous for his bungling tricks and that iconic fez, Tommy Cooper served with the Royal Horse Guards and later in Egypt during WWII. His timing, discipline, and straight-faced silliness were all sharpened in the Forces. Just like that. 

🎙️ Chris Tarrant – Game Show Host with Military Roots 

Known for Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, Tarrant was part of the university Officer Training Corps. While he didn’t serve full-time, the experience helped shape his calm under pressure – especially with £1 million on the line. 

🎭 Anthony Andrews – Sandhurst to Screen 

Andrews, best known for Brideshead Revisited, originally trained at Sandhurst before pivoting to performance. That effortless poise on screen? Possibly forged on parade grounds. 

🎩 Stanley Baxter – Funny Man with a Serious Past 

Baxter served in the British Army’s Intelligence Corps during WWII. After the war, his mimicry and impressions won him a place in Britain’s comedy elite – but the sharpness of mind? Straight from military training. 

🎙️ Tony Christie – Signalman Turned Singer 

Before walking down Amarillo, Christie did National Service with the Royal Signals. The stage may have called, but the Army gave him the confidence to stand on it. 

📺 Des Lynam – Grandstand Calm, RAF Cool 

That famously relaxed TV presence? Des honed it during his RAF National Service. Before covering Wimbledon and Match of the Day, he was taking radio signals – not tennis scores. 

🥊 Ricky Hatton – Cadet to Champion 

Not full-time military, but Hatton credits his time in the Army Cadets for giving him the mindset to thrive in the ring. His grit, discipline, and focus were all sharpened long before the title belts came.

The Uniform Never Truly Comes Off 

 These stories are proof that life after the Forces can lead anywhere. From concert halls to boxing rings, palace balconies to comedy clubs – service shaped their journeys. And for every famous face, there are thousands of veterans walking quieter paths that are just as meaningful. 

Justice4Heroes Supports All Veterans – Famous or Not 

 You don’t need a record deal or a red carpet to deserve support. Whether you’ve struggled with hearing loss, feel let down by pension advice, or just want a straight answer – we’re here for you. 

With our trusted legal partners, we’re helping veterans across the UK: 

• Reclaim lost pension funds 

• Seek support for service-related hearing loss 

• Navigate the post-service world with dignity and confidence 

📞 Call us on: 0800 776 5622 
📩 Email: [email protected] 
🌍 Visit: justice4heroes.org 

Because every veteran has a story – and every story deserves respect.