Eddie Albert: War Hero

Eddie Albert made over 200 film and television appearances and starred in ten Broadway shows – but the lowbrow “Green Acres” made Eddie Albert a star! He played a flag-waving, patriotic New York lawyer who moved to Iowa to become a farmer. Although his character failed miserably as a farmer, the role is forever identified as a signature success for Eddie Albert.

The two-time Oscar nominee with a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame was more proud of earning a Bronze Star with a “V.” by saving over 50 lives at the crucial Battle of Tarawa. This is the story of Eddie Albert: World War II hero.

Albert was born in 1906 in Rock Island, . By the 1920s, he began a career in show business. The distinguished actor started out as a circus trapeze artist! After appearing in circuses and vaudeville shows, Albert transitioned to Broadway and debuted in the play “Brothers” in 1930. Next, he appeared throughout the 1930s. In addition to his acting career, Albert was also an accomplished singer and recorded several albums.

Albert also became involved in political activism, particularly in support of labor rights and the rights of African Americans. He was involved in several strikes and boycotts in support of these causes.

Eddie Albert: War Hero

During World War II, Eddie Albert joined the United States Navy as a lieutenant serving in the Pacific Theater. He was involved in numerous operations and battles, including the Battle of Tarawa; his instinctive, selfless, and heroic actions saved the lives of between 50 and 70 Marines trapped in a desperate situation. I am focusing on Eddie Albert because of his fame in show business and the widespread perception that liberals and movie stars are not patriotic.

There is no question that Eddie Albert was a hero at the Battle of Tarawa. However, as a historian, I would be remiss in not reminding you that there were many heroes of that battle whose names are not famous. One example is the bravery of Lieutenant Colonel David M. Shoup. (Click Here to read his Medal Of Honor citation.) Shoup was the commanding officer of the 2nd Marine Regiment, and he led his troops in the assault on Betio Island. He was wounded early in the battle but continued to lead his men until the island was secured. Shoup was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions.

The Battle Of Tarawa

The Battle of Tarawa was a significant battle fought between the United States and Japan during World War II, which took place from November 20-23, 1943, on the small island of Betio in the Tarawa Atoll in the Gilbert Islands. The battle is important for several reasons:

1. Strategic Importance: The Gilbert Islands were a key stepping stone in the Allied’s island-hopping strategy to reach Japan. The capture of Tarawa was necessary for the United States to establish air and naval bases to support further offensives in the Pacific.

2. Deadly Battle: The Battle of Tarawa was one of the most intense and costly battles fought during the Pacific War. Over 6,000 soldiers were killed or wounded in the battle, including over 1,000 U.S. Marines.

3. USA Changes Tactics: The battle forced the US military to re-evaluate its amphibious assault tactics. The assault on Tarawa exposed deficiencies in the US’s amphibious capabilities and led to significant changes in training and equipment.

4. Boosted Morale: The victory at Tarawa was a much-needed boost to American morale after a string of setbacks in the Pacific. The intense fighting and eventual victory on Tarawa demonstrated the courage and determination of American troops and their ability to win against formidable opposition.

Eddie Albert And The Battle Of Tarawa

factors, including poor intelligence, inaccurate maps, and unexpected Japanese resistance, marred the execution. The US Marines were faced with heavy enemy fire from Japanese soldiers who were determined to defend the island at all costs. Eddie Albert was one of the few officers who survived the initial landing on the beach at Tarawa. He quickly realized that the Marines were facing heavy resistance and that the planned landing zones were not safe for unloading the troops.

Under non-stop, deadly heavy enemy fire, Albert risked his life to rescue about 50 wounded Marines. They were wading through the dangerous surf and were sitting ducks for Japanese artillery. Immediately, Albert, a salvage officer, ignored the danger and steered towards the men, loading them onto his landing craft and taking them back to other ships to receive medical care. For these actions, he was awarded the Bronze Star with a “V” device for valor. His quick thinking and leadership skills helped to minimize the casualties among the US troops. The Battle of Tarawa was brutal and deadly. The US Marines suffered heavy losses, taking several days of fierce fighting to capture the islands. The battle was a turning point in the Pacific War. Capturing the islands provided the USA with a strategic base to launch attacks against Japanese forces.

Footnote: The Blaclisted War Hero

After the war, Albert resumed his career. The American war hero was labeled a communist during the Red Scare of the 1950s. It has been argued that his career might have been larger without the shadow accusations against him. Nonetheless, he received his first Oscar nomination for appearing alongside his friend and fellow liberals social activist Gregory Peck in “Roman Holiday.”

His son said his father’s political beliefs and activism had always been a part of their family life and that Eddie had always been committed to speaking out for his beliefs. He also talked about how difficult it was for his father to be blacklisted and how it impacted their family financially. Despite these challenges, Edward Albert emphasized that his father never wavered in his commitment to social and political causes. He said his father’s experiences with the blacklist only strengthened his resolve to stand up for his beliefs and fight for justice and equality.