Actor, Army veteran James Earl Jones has died

Legendary actor and United States Army veteran James Earl Jones has died, according to a press release.

The 93-year-old drew his final breaths on Monday, surrounded by friends and family in his Empire State home.

Best known for being the voice of Darth Vader from the “Star Wars” franchise, Jones also had notable roles in films and shows such as “Patriot Games,” “Clear and Present Danger,” “Field of Dreams,” and the TV film, “By The Dawn’s Early Light,” among others.

While he was beloved worldwide for his acting prowess, many might not know that Jones served as an officer in the United States Army.

While attending the University of Michigan, Jones enrolled in ROTC and took a great liking to the military lifestyle, eventually earning his commission as a second lieutenant.

During college, Jones figured he would be sent off to fight in the Korean War, and pursued acting as a diversionary hobby— his logic being that if he were to potentially die in combat, he may as well spend his college years doing something he enjoyed.

While serving his time in the United States Army, Jones earned his Ranger tab and eventually was assigned to train mountain troops in Colorado. Miraculously, he managed to avoid being sent off to Korea, though he was reportedly more than willing to go if asked.

After being discharged as a first lieutenant, Jones moved to New York, where he pursued a career in acting.

Jones was a devout Catholic, having found faith while serving in the Army.

While James Earl Jones never won a competitive Oscar, he did receive a myriad of awards for his acting prowess.

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