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Walter Matthau flew 25 combat missions over Europe as a radioman and gunner on a B-24 Liberator with the 453rd Bombardment Group at RAF Old Buckenham.
Nicknamed “Kid Reliable” for his steady nerves under fire, he earned the Air Medal and six battle stars.
But it was a chance conversation with his operations officer, Jimmy Stewart, that changed everything.
Following a debriefing, Staff Sergeant Matthau asked about a career in acting. Stewart’s advice? “Follow your passion, and it’ll all work out.”
That encouragement launched Matthau’s legendary career as a versatile actor on film, stage, and TV. From war hero to Hollywood icon, Kid Reliable became a household name.
Nicknamed “Kid Reliable” for his steady nerves under fire, he earned the Air Medal and six battle stars.
But it was a chance conversation with his operations officer, Jimmy Stewart, that changed everything.
Following a debriefing, Staff Sergeant Matthau asked about a career in acting. Stewart’s advice? “Follow your passion, and it’ll all work out.”
That encouragement launched Matthau’s legendary career as a versatile actor on film, stage, and TV. From war hero to Hollywood icon, Kid Reliable became a household name.
