#3: His Time in the U.S. Military

When World War II broke out, Newman enlisted in the U.S. Navy with dreams of becoming a fighter pilot after graduating high school in 1943. But during his training, a medical exam revealed he was colorblind, dashing his hopes of flying. Instead, he served as a radioman and rear gunner on torpedo bombers stationed in the Pacific.

His service wasn’t without risk—he was aboard a ship waiting to deploy when his pilot contracted an ear infection, delaying their departure. The original squadron was sent ahead—and was wiped out in battle. This twist of fate deeply affected Newman, reinforcing his gratitude for second chances.