James Montgomery Doohan (March 3, 1920 â July 20, 2005) was a Canadian actor and author, best known for his role as Montgomery “Scotty” Scott in the television and film series Star Trek. Doohan’s characterization of the Scottish Chief Engineer of the Starship Enterprise was one of the most recognizable elements in the Star Trek franchise, and inspired many fans to pursue careers in engineering and other technical fields. He also made contributions behind the scenes, such as the initial development of the Klingon and Vulcan languages.
He was Shot Several Times On D-Day and Lost His Middle Finger
Before James Montgomery Doohan was well known for his portrayal of a Scottish engineer on Star Trek, he was a lieutenant in World War II. During his service in the Canadian Royal Army, Montgomery served in the 14th Field Artillery Regiment in the 3rd Canadian Infantry Division. While participating in the notorious D-Day battle on June 6th, 1944, Montgomery navigated a minefield with his fellow soldiers between command posts on Juno beach, and he was shot multiple times.
He took four bullets to one of his legs and one to his hand that resulted in him losing his middle finger. Additionally, another bullet hit his chest and would have been fatal if it was not for a silver cigarette case deflecting the bullet. The shots actually came from a fellow soldier who was somewhat mistaken about who the enemies were. Montgomery received many military medals, including the France and Germany Star, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, War Medal, and Defence Medal.
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