Jackie Coogan

Biography

Jackie Coogan was an American actor renowned for his role as a child star in silent films, particularly in Charlie Chaplin's "The Kid" (1921). Coogan's early success in the film industry established him as a prominent figure in Hollywood during the silent era. In March 1941, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and later requested a transfer to the Army Air Forces, leveraging his civilian flying experience. He graduated from the Advanced Glider School with the Glider Pilot aeronautical rating and held the rank of Flight Officer. Coogan volunteered for hazardous duty with the 1st Air Commando Group, where he played a significant role in flying British troops into Japanese lines during the Burma Campaign. His contributions to both film and military service mark his diverse career.