Throughout history, numerous athletes have worn more than just their sports uniforms. They have also proudly donned military attire, serving their country during times of conflict. Many of these athletes' stories go beyond their sports achievements, showcasing their bravery and dedication to serving in the U.S. military.

From baseball legends to football icons, here are 20 remarkable athletes who took time off from their athletic careers to serve their country.

1. Grover Cleveland Alexander

Grover Cleveland Alexander is a name that resonates with baseball fans for his impressive pitching career. With 373 victories and a 2.56 ERA over 20 seasons, Alexander was one of the greatest pitchers of his time.

However, his impact extended beyond the baseball diamond. During World War I, Alexander served as a sergeant in the Army artillery. His service during wartime and remarkable career earned him a spot in the Hall of Fame in 1938.

2. Monte Irvin

Instagram | vintage_bubble_gum | Monte Irvin combined military service in WWII with a Hall of Fame career with the New York Giants.

Monte Irvin’s career as a baseball player was marked by his strength and leadership, both on and off the field. Serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, Irvin returned to become a key player for the New York Giants, earning a place in the Hall of Fame in 1973.

3. Yogi Berra

Yogi Berra’s name is synonymous with baseball greatness. With 18 All-Star selections and 13 World Series championships, he was a powerhouse for the New York Yankees. But his impact went beyond the sport.

Berra served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, notably as a gunner's mate during the D-Day invasion. His military service exemplifies the dedication and patriotism that many athletes share.

4. Chad Hennings

Before becoming a three-time Super Bowl champion with the Dallas Cowboys, Chad Hennings served in the U.S. Air Force during the Gulf War. Hennings flew 45 missions during the conflict before returning to football and achieving great success with the Cowboys.

5. Bill Bradley

Bill Bradley's life is a tale of incredible achievements both on and off the basketball court. A Hall of Famer and NBA champion, Bradley was also a Rhodes Scholar and later served as a U.S. Senator. Before these accomplishments, he served in the United States Air Force Reserve from 1967 to 1978, showing his commitment to both his country and his community.

6. Ty Cobb

Ty Cobb’s legacy as one of baseball’s greatest hitters is undeniable, with 4,191 career hits. However, Cobb’s dedication to service was equally significant. During World War I, he enlisted in the Chemical Corps, spending over two months overseas before receiving an honorable discharge. Despite his military service, Cobb’s passion for baseball never wavered, and he returned to the game to further cement his place in history.

7. Roberto Clemente

Roberto Clemente, remembered for his incredible skills on the field, also demonstrated immense strength of character through his service. As a Hall of Fame outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Clemente's humanitarian efforts were widely celebrated.

He also served in the U.S. Marine Corps for nearly a decade during his baseball career, highlighting his devotion to both his sport and his country.

8. Jerry Coleman

Jerry Coleman made his mark in baseball as a player for the New York Yankees, but his greatest contributions came as a U.S. Marine. During World War II, Coleman flew 57 combat missions as a dive bomber pilot, demonstrating bravery and leadership. He later went on to become a respected broadcaster, earning a spot in the Hall of Fame as a Padres announcer.

9. Joe DiMaggio

Joe DiMaggio is a baseball legend known for his 56-game hitting streak, a record that still stands today. DiMaggio’s career was temporarily interrupted when he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force during World War II.

Although he didn't see combat, his service was an important chapter in his life. DiMaggio’s time in the military is a testament to his commitment to his country, even as a major sports figure.

10. Larry Doby

Instagram | becauseofthem | A pioneer in baseball and a veteran of WWII, Larry Doby demonstrated exceptional service and leadership.

Larry Doby made history as the first African American to play in the American League. But Doby's contributions went beyond breaking barriers in baseball. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as a physical education trainer, embodying the values of service and leadership.

11. Art Donovan

Art Donovan was a key figure in the Colts' defensive line, making several Pro Bowl appearances and earning a spot in the Hall of Fame. Donovan’s service during World War II as a Marine gunner further exemplified his dedication. Known for his humor, Donovan became a beloved figure not only in football but in American sports culture as a whole.

12. Bob Feller

Bob Feller’s career as a Hall of Fame pitcher is one for the books. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Feller enlisted in the U.S. Navy, becoming the first professional athlete to enlist in response to the bombing.

He served nearly four years as a gun captain before returning to the majors in 1946, continuing his dominant pitching career.

13. Whitey Ford

Whitey Ford, known for his time with the New York Yankees, was a 10-time All-Star and a six-time World Series champion. Ford served in the Army during the Korean War from 1951 to 1952, temporarily stepping away from his baseball career. His time in the military and subsequent return to baseball further solidified his place as one of the game's greats.

14. Jack Dempsey

Jack Dempsey, once the World Heavyweight Champion, is remembered not only for his fierce fighting style but for his service in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. After facing criticism for not enlisting in World War I, Dempsey enlisted in 1942, silencing his critics and showing his patriotism.

15. Hank Greenberg

Hank Greenberg, a Hall of Famer and one of the best first basemen in baseball history, paused his illustrious career to serve in the U.S. Army during World War II. Greenberg was the first player in the American League to voluntarily register for the draft, sacrificing several years of his career to serve his country.

16. Rocky Bleier

Rocky Bleier's story is nothing short of inspiring. After a solid start with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bleier was drafted into the Army during the Vietnam War. There, he was injured in combat, earning both a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star.

Despite his injuries, Bleier returned to the Steelers in 1974, ultimately winning four Super Bowl rings. His resilience on and off the field made him a beloved figure in sports.

17. Tim James

Instagram | nba_anonymous | After his NBA career, Tim James's anonymous service in Iraq underscored his humble and dedicated character.

Tim James had a brief but notable career in the NBA, playing for several teams. After retiring from basketball, he enlisted in the Army and served in the Iraq War. His decision to serve without revealing his basketball past shows the humility and dedication that many athletes share.

18. Whitey Herzog

Whitey Herzog's name is synonymous with coaching excellence, but he also served in the Korean War before beginning his career in baseball. His time in the military may have interrupted his playing career, but it did not prevent him from making a significant impact as a coach.

19. Chuck Bednarik

Chuck Bednarik, known for his fierce playing style, was one of the last true two-way players in football. As a linebacker and center for the Philadelphia Eagles, he played in multiple Pro Bowls and led the team to a championship in 1960.

But what truly set him apart was his service in World War II. Bednarik was a gunner on 30 missions during the war and was awarded numerous medals, including the Air Medal, European Theater Operations Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal.

20. Bobby Jones

Bobby Jones, a legend in golf, also made a significant contribution to the military during World War II. Jones served as an intelligence officer with the Army Air Forces and later became a lieutenant colonel. His service was an integral part of his character, contributing to his lasting legacy in the sport.

These athletes are examples of individuals who found a balance between their athletic careers and their patriotic duty. Their time in the military not only shaped their personal lives but also added to their greatness in the sports world. Each of these athletes demonstrated that true courage and commitment extend far beyond the field or court.