Charles Durning: The War Hero Hollywood Forgot

Charles Durning was more than a beloved character actor—he was a bona fide American war hero. Before captivating audiences in Tootsie, Dog Day Afternoon, and countless other films, Durning survived some of WWII’s most brutal combat, including D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge. His story is one of courage, loss, and quiet resilience. This video explores the extraordinary military service Durning rarely spoke about. Wounded multiple times, he earned the Silver Star and three Purple Hearts, all while carrying the trauma of seeing fellow soldiers fall. After the war, he turned to acting—bringing rare depth and gravity to every role he played. Most people know his face, but few know his history. This is the story of how a man who stormed Normandy went on to storm the stage and screen. Watch until the end to understand why Charles Durning deserves to be remembered not just as an actor—but as a hero. Written and hosted by Colin D. Heaton. Forgotten History is a 10th Legion Pictures Production. ==================================================================== Help support the channel: Patreon page:   / forgottenhistorychannel   Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @forgottenhistorychannel   Merch: Forgotten History Merchandise: https://fh-shop.fourthwall.com/ Now on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2OFlwcP... ================================================================================= Thanks for watching. Please subscribe using the link below so we can continue making new content. Your subscription to the channel means a lot to us!    / @forgottenhistorychannel   ==================================================================== About us: Host/Military Historian/Film Consultant/US Army and USMC Veteran - Colin Heaton https://www.heatonlewisbooks.com Screenwriter/Director/Producer/US Marine Corps Veteran - Michael Droberg https://imdb.me/michaeldroberg https://www.10thlegionpictures.com Email The Forgotten History Team: [email protected] Brand Deal Inquiries: [email protected] Editor - Alexander Keane [email protected] ==================================================================== Associated channel for sci-fi, fantasy, comedy, and film related topics:    / 10thlegionpictures   ==================================================================== -COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER UNDER SECTION 107 OF THE COPYRIGHT ACT 1976 Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. #forgottenhistorychannel Sources: IMDB.com The Boston Herald The Orlando Sentinel salon.com The Washington Post The Huffington Post The Guardian, Reuters The New York Times USA Today Associated Press Interview with Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. The National WW II Museum