I am writing a biographical feature for our newspaper on a person who was a local fire chief. Back in World War II he was a Marine stationed on a base in Southern California where he worked on the base fire crew. In 1941 and 1942 he was also involved with various movie and radio stars due to “Hollywood Canteen” sorts of activities.
I have a group photo taken in that time period with my subject and some Big Names, but I haven’t been able to identify them all
At the far left of the photo is movie star Pat O’Brien, then an unknown, probably another on-duty Marine. In the center is former heavyweight champion Max Baer, then comes my subject, with an Errol-Flynn-style moustache, then tough guy character who looks like one of the Bowery Boys/Dead End Kids. Huntz Hall, maybe?
Finally, kneeling down in front is a young blondish curlyhaired guy I just can’t place, but know he’s another actor.
Any ID help with the actor on the far right and the one kneeling would be greatly pappreciated.
I really wish Eve were here, but she had plenty of first-class backup. If anybody can do it, the Dope can. Thanks for looking.
I’ve emailed this to my grandfather, who used to work for Paramount Pictures and has a phenomenal memory, and I’ll let you know if/when he responds with an answer.
The guy on the right reminds me of Allan Melvin-- he wasn’t famous in 1942, but he DID serve in the Navy about that time-- that would be a big coincidence though…
That’s George Murphy, singer-dancer, future SAG prez and U.S. Senator. He served in the Navy in WWI, but I don’t think he was in in WWII, despite the watchcap and peacoat.
