When Hollywood Had Heroes: What Got Jimmy Stewart Through 20 Combat Missions

Jimmy, my main squeeze

 The Golden Era: A Time When Hollywood Was Patriotic and Actors—Gasp!—Read the Bible

The oft-quoted maxim, “They don’t make them like the used to,” surely must apply to my man Jimmy, who was–and is–my favorite actor in the whole wide world. As someone else once said, “He was a prince of a man.”

In fact, I’d always vowed that when Jimmy Stewart died, I’d wear black for a week. I was completely serious. Unfortunately, I was on an outdoor adventure travel writing assignment in Washington state when Jimmy Stewart slipped the surly bonds of this earth, and I doubt my then-editor would have taken too kindly to my sending photos of myself dressed in black hiking gear. 

But I digress. My point here is that Jimmy Stewart was far more than a consummate actor, dedicated family man and all-around standup guy. He was also a rarity among today’s celebs—a decorated war veteran who served his country with great distinction.

Just as important, he loved God–without embarrassment. Brig. Gen James Maitland Stewart acknowledged his dependence upon his Supreme Commander during his time in the trenches (more like the air ways since he was, after all, an Air Force man) and, as such, he found particular comfort in the famous “Soldier’s Psalm”: Psalm 91.

Read the following letter Jimmy’s dad wrote him—a letter that he found so emotional, he was apparently unable to read it to his son aloud.

My dear Jim-Boy,

Soon after you read this letter, you will be on your way to the worst sort of danger. Jim, I am banking on the enclosed copy of the 91st Psalm. The thing that takes the place of fear and worry is the promise of these words. I am staking my faith in these words. I feel sure that God will lead you through this mad experience. I can say no more. I only continue to pray. Goodbye, my dear. God continue to bless and keep you. I love you more than I can tell you. – Dad