Question 1

Which actor in Battleground was the most decorated World War II veteran among the cast?

Accepted Answer

James Arness (who played Garby) was the most decorated, having received the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with three bronze stars, World War II Victory Medal, and Combat Infantryman Badge.

Question 2

What personal connection did screenwriter Robert Pirosh have to the Battle of the Bulge depicted in the film?

Accepted Answer

Robert Pirosh fought in the Battle of the Bulge as a master sergeant in the 35th Infantry Division, which helped relieve the 101st Airborne at Bastogne. He later returned to research the screenplay and found his old foxhole.

Question 3

What do the white card suit symbols on the soldiers' helmets in Battleground represent?

Accepted Answer

The white club symbols indicate the soldiers belong to the 101st Airborne's 327th Glider Infantry Regiment, with positioning details showing their battalion. This accurately reflects World War II division identification methods.

Question 4

How did MGM prepare actors for their roles as soldiers in Battleground?

Accepted Answer

MGM paired 20 veterans of the 101st Airborne with actors for a two-week boot camp on the back lot, including weapons training, grenade practice, drill, and calisthenics, with strict regimentation including limited smoking breaks.

Question 5

What happened to actor Douglas Fowley during his World War II service that connected to his character?

Accepted Answer

Douglas Fowley, who played Private Kippton (who loses false teeth), served in the Navy in the South Pacific and lost all his own teeth in an explosion aboard his aircraft carrier during battle.

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Battleground

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