John Ford came to Hollywood following one of his brothers, an actor, in the 19-teens. Asked what brought him to Hollywood, he answered "the train". He was one of the most respected film directors in the business.

When the U.S. entered World War II, John Augustine Ford (per his WWI registration card) was a Navy Reserve officer. He was activated and Commander Ford served as head of the photographic unit for the Office of Strategic Services (O.S.S.), making documentaries including the semi-documentary "The Battle of Midway" ( 1942) and "December7th" (1943), both of which earned him 'Oscars'.

While filming the Japanese attack on Midway from the power plant at Sand Island, Commander Ford was wounded by shrapnel in the arm, for which he received the Purple Heart award.

After the war, Ford remained an officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He returned to active service during the Korean War, and was promoted to Rear Admiral the day he left.

During his film making career, he acquired several nick-names: "Pappy", "Coach","Uncle Jack", "Jack", :"The Admiral", and "The Liberal Democrat of Republic" (film studio).