Johnny Carson was arguably the most famous and beloved man in late-night television, helming The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson for 30 years, but long before he ever graced television screens—or even began broadcasting of any kind on smaller stations—Carson was a member of the United States Navy. Carson joined in 1943, but luck was on his side, and he never saw combat during World War II. In fact, always the showman, Carson was better known among his Navy buddies for his magic act and amateur boxing record aboard the U.S.S. Pennsylvania.