Charles Durning, (1923- 2012), R.I.P., Dances Out Doin’ The Sidestep

Before he began his acting career, Durning served with distinction during WWII. He was amongst the first wave of American soldiers to storm Omaha Beach on D-Day. Durning also fought in the Battle of the Bulge in which he was one of only three American soldiers to survive the Malmedy massacre. Durning earned three Purple Hearts and a Silver Star for his service.