Raised by hard-working parents, Tom Selleck was introduced to American military values at an early age. Selleck was born in Detroit, Michigan, but his father’s dissatisfaction with the woodworking industry prompted the family to relocate to California, where he sought success in real estate. The move paved the way for Selleck’s success as an actor and member of the US military.
Selleck graduated from high school in 1962. He wanted to attend USC, but couldn’t afford the tuition. He attended Valley Junior College, worked hard, and saved to get into his junior year at USC. A basketball scholarship helped him. While in college, Selleck modeled for extra money.
It was at USC that Sellek entered the acting world. He was studying business administration, but a drama coach suggested he try acting. He’s appeared on the dating game and even starred in a Pepsi ad. Twentieth Century Fox quickly approached him, hoping that he would join their talent program. He signed and worked hard to learn the performing arts.
“I think when I go to Fox, I’m alone, with no frame of reference, no connection,” Sellek said. “I’ve never acted in my life. My starting salary was about $35 a week, and every six months you were either fired or extended.
During the Vietnam War, Selleck was commissioned to design. To keep the situation under control, he enlisted in the 160th Infantry Regiment of the California National Guard. He served from 1967 to 1973. He later appeared on a recruiting poster for the California National Guard.
Impressed by the military, Selleck recalls his service with pride: “I’m a veteran, and I’m proud of it,” he said. “I was a sergeant in the U.S. Army Infantry, National Guard, Vietnam. We’re all brothers and sisters in that sense.”
When he returned to civilian life, his contract with Fox was released.
“Then I was about to be drafted, and I went into the National Guard Infantry and did six months of active duty while working at Fox,” Selleck said. “I came back and got a job and then they fired me.
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