Was Gene Autry a war Hero?

Gene Autry was a World War II veteran. He enlisted in the United States Army Air Forces in 1942, receiving his pilot's wings at Luke Field, Arizona, in April 1943. Autry went on to fly over 300 combat hours during the war.

He survived three plane crashes, one in which he was severely burned and lost an eye, and earned the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal, and Purple Heart.

After the war, Autry continued his successful singing and acting career. He is also known for his philanthropic work and his support of various charities and organizations.