David Niven, a renowned Hollywood star from the 1940s to the '80s, who even took on the role of James Bond, was determined to contribute to the war effort when the Second World War began.
However, others had different plans for him, which meant he had to fight to be allowed to serve.
Early Life of David Niven
Born and raised in London, England, David Niven earned a place at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, where he decided to enlist in the British Army.
Despite requesting to be assigned to the Black Watch or Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Highland Light Infantry, against his wishes.
Niven spent two years stationed in Malta alongside Roy Urquhart, who would later become the commander of the British 1st Airborne Division.
However, he grew bored with his service and resigned as a lieutenant in 1933.
Acting Career and World War II
Niven's decision to leave the military was likely influenced by his interest in acting.
He started as a film extra and eventually moved to New York City and then Hollywood.
With the help of an agent, he secured numerous smaller roles until he landed the part of Edgar Linton in Wuthering Heights in 1939.
While Niven was filming Raffles, a crime-comedy, news broke that Britain had declared war against Germany.
He found out while recovering from a hangover with his friend Robert Coote at the Balboa Yacht Club in California.
A sailor passing by informed them of the declaration, and they were determined to enlist.
Challenges Faced
However, several obstacles stood in their way.
The British Consulate advised citizens abroad to remain where they were unless they were in the Reserves.
Additionally, Niven's studio contract required him to complete Raffles.
Although executive Samuel Goldwyn sympathized with Niven's desire to enlist, he wanted him to finish the film.
Undeterred, Niven enlisted the help of his brother.
He instructed him to send a cable stating, “Report regimental deport immediately Adjutant.”
Armed with what he believed was evidence of his return to service, Niven approached Goldwyn again.
The executive assumed Niven had been called back from the Reserves and allowed him to pursue his military duties.
Niven became the only British actor in Hollywood to return to England and join the Rifle Brigade (Prince Consort's Own).
He was recommissioned as a lieutenant and assigned to a motor training brigade.
Wartime Contributions
During World War II, Niven played various roles.
He starred in films produced by the Army Film and Photographic Unit, including The First of the Few (1942) and The Way Ahead (1944).
He also participated in Operation Copperhead by “casting” actor M.E.
Clifton James to impersonate General Bernard Montgomery, fooling German intelligence.
These activities, along with his time in the Rifle Brigade, were just a fraction of his wartime service.
Soon after being commissioned, Niven joined the Commandos and commanded “A” Squadron, GHQ Liaison Regiment, also known as “Phantom.”
They were not a typical liaison group and saw action throughout Europe, including on D-Day and during Operation Market Garden.
Niven and his men landed alongside the first wave of airborne troops during D-Day and provided intelligence on the location of Allied forces the day after the initial landings.
They then accompanied the US 1st Infantry Division in their advance toward the Rhine.
Furthermore, Niven played a significant role in the entertainment efforts of the Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force (SHAEF) through radio broadcasts.
In 1944, he collaborated with the BBC to expand these initiatives and even worked with Glenn Miller, who tragically disappeared while flying over the English Channel.
Recognition and Return to Hollywood
For his service, Niven received the American Legion of Merit and was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel.
After the war, he resumed his successful career in Hollywood and starred in many films that established his fame.
He appeared alongside Cary Grant in The Bishop's Wife (1947) and starred with Shirley Temple in A Kiss for Corliss (1947).
Although his career experienced a slight decline, Niven made a comeback with The Moon Is Blue (1953), which earned him a Golden Globe.
He further solidified his status with his portrayal of Phileas Fogg in Around the World in 80 Days (1956) and his Academy Award-winning performance in Separate Tables (1958).
Notable roles also included James Bond in Casino Royale (1967), Sir Charles Lytton in The Pink Panther (1963), and Jonathan Kingsley in The Impossible Years (1968).
Niven rarely spoke about his wartime experiences but once shared a poignant story about visiting an American friend's son's grave near Bastogne.
Among the thousands of graves, he realized the importance of silence after the war.
David Niven's journey from a determined actor to a wartime hero demonstrates his unwavering commitment to serving his country and making a significant impact both on and off the silver screen.
