I can’t imagine what it must have been like for Rory, growing up dirt poor during the Depression. Most days I’m sure he didn’t know where his next meal was coming from. But he had a fire in his belly, a refusal to let his circumstances define him. While other kids were horsing around, he busted his butt taking any job he could find just to survive. Hell, by 14 he was already living on his own! That tough upbringing forged his rugged, independent spirit. When the Marines came calling, it was a chance for Rory to prove himself. And prove himself he did, serving his country with valor during WWII. But a man like him wasn’t meant to be idle. Acting captured his imagination, though I bet plenty laughed at the idea of an ex-jarhead finding fame in Hollywood! Undeterred, Rory worked twice as hard as anyone, memorizing other actors’ lines just to learn. Slowly but surely, he clawed his way from bit parts to the big screen.
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Beyond his tough guy persona on camera, Calhoun had a more thoughtful side as well. Throughout his life, he supported numerous charities quietly with his time and money. Some of the causes close to his heart included: – The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation – Having proudly served in the Marines himself, Calhoun was a longtime donor and advocate for scholarships assisting children of fallen Marines. – The Motion Picture & Television Fund – This organization provided support to elderly and indigent industry members. Calhoun volunteered frequently at their facilities. – United Cerebral Palsy – Calhoun participated in telethons and fundraising events to support the organization’s work helping children with disabilities. – The John Wayne Cancer Institute – When not on location, Calhoun could be found lending his celebrity platform to raise money for cancer research at this institution named after his friend and frequent co-star, John Wayne.