09/22/2025
Before becoming the father of the classic series "The Twilight Zone," Rod Serling was a brave paratrooper in World War II. At 5'4" (about 1m62) tall, he risked his life to convince his way into the 511th Airborne Regiment.
Serling's life story was not only about his heroic exploits on the battlefield but also about his heartbreaking tragedies that haunted him for the rest of his life. He witnessed his close friend Melvin Levy being hit by a falling supply crate and killed instantly. Rod later marked his friend's grave with a Star of David to commemorate his Jewish roots.
Horrid experiences such as being nearly shot dead by Japanese soldiers or bravely rushing into the line of fire to save a Filipino woman shaped who he was and his career later on.
Returning from the war with haunting wounds and mental anguish, Serling chose the path of writing to "face his demons". He quickly became one of the most famous screenwriters, producers and narrators in the history of American television.
Rod Serling won six Emmy Awards, more than any other writer as of 2020. He was also the host of many hit TV shows, often criticizing television for not reaching its full potential.
Although he passed away in 1975, his final words "for civilization to survive, mankind must remain civilized" still hold true, serving as a powerful reminder to this day.
The story of the paratrooper has become a Hollywood legend, do you want to explore more hidden corners of his life? 👇👇👇
