Mel Brooks – U.S. Infantry

Mell Brooks had just completed a year studying psychology when the call of duty came in 1944. Brooks joined the army and started with training at the Virginia Military Institute. He took classes in engineering, and before that, he had participated in the Army Specialized Training.

Brooks became a corporal under the 1104 Engineer Combat Battalion, and he later joined the 78th Infantry Division. During World War II, Brooks helped to defuse landmines. He also assisted in staging shows for the German and American soldiers. Brooks is now 94, and in 2019, he performed in the stage production In Residence.