When you think of Marlene Dietrich, the first thing that comes to mind is her dazzling Hollywood career and timeless elegance. But there was so much more to this Berlin-born actress than just glitz and glamour. As her grandson, Peter Riva, reveals exclusively to Closer, Marlene found her true calling during World War II, when she dedicated herself to serving the Allied troops. "She was happiest when she was out there with the soldiers," Peter shares. "She called them 'my boys' and treated them like family. And they loved her back just as much."
Marlene’s journey to becoming an American icon began in 1930 when she moved to the U.S. The rise of fascism in Germany horrified her, and in 1939, she officially became a U.S. citizen. "America gave me a home when I no longer had a country I could call my own," Marlene once said. With that sense of gratitude, she became one of the earliest celebrities to actively join the war effort, using her platform to make a real difference.
More Than Just a Fundraiser
Marlene wasn’t just about writing checks or attending galas; she was deeply involved in the war effort. According to Peter Riva, she worked closely with the OSS, the precursor to the CIA, helping to rescue people from Nazi Germany who were in grave danger. "She was relentless," he says. "She didn’t stop there, either. She was also one of the biggest fundraisers for war bonds, even outpacing legends like Clark Gable, who was known as the King of Hollywood at the time." It's a testament to her dedication that she managed to raise so much support for the troops, often surpassing even the most prominent figures of her era.
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A Tireless Advocate for the Troops
Between 1943 and 1946, Marlene made over 500 appearances for Allied troops, traveling to some of the most dangerous front lines. "This wasn’t just a job for her," explains Peter. "It was a passion, a calling. Danny Thomas used to joke with me that my grandmother always seemed to be trying to get them killed. If there was still daylight, she’d insist on performing for the soldiers on the front lines. Sometimes, she’d put on a show for as few as 10 men!" Her courage knew no bounds. She believed that anything she could do to help turn the tide against Hitler was worth it. "She understood the gravity of the situation," Peter adds. "And she was willing to risk everything to make a difference."
An Honored Legacy
For her bravery and unwavering commitment, Marlene was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the highest honors a civilian can receive. "She was incredibly proud of that award," Peter recalls. "It’s a legacy she cherished deeply. She didn’t just want to be remembered as a movie star—she wanted to be remembered as someone who stood up for what was right, even when it wasn’t easy." Marlene’s story is a powerful reminder that true heroism isn’t always about grand gestures—it’s about the quiet, relentless pursuit of justice and compassion.
— Reporting by Fortune Benatar
