The road to fame as an actor, politician or musician is not one specific, prepaved path. Still, it seems surprising to go from something as serious and life changing as the armed services to an industry where you still may slip on a uniform every day, but only to play pretend. You might be surprised by just how many big names in entertainment and public life were military men first, though. Take a look through Snakkle’s gallery and see if you recognize the men inside these uniforms.

As the old adage goes, Washington, D.C., is like Hollywood for ugly people. So what does that make Hollywood when stars head for the Hill? Take a look at the stars who have campaigned for more than an Oscar—with mixed results.