Ward Bond

Wardell Edwin Bond (April 9, 1903 – November 5, 1960) was an American character actor appearing in over 200 films. He gained fame in NBC's television series 'Wagon Train' that aired from 1957 to 1960. Throughout his career, Bond frequently portrayed cowboys, cops, and soldiers, a testament to his versatility as an actor. His most notable roles include Bert the cop in Frank Capra's 'It's a Wonderful Life' (1946) and Captain Clayton in John Ford's 'The Searchers' (1956). Besides his work in films, Bond demonstrated his prowess in football, playing for the University of Southern California. Bond's journey in acting commenced with a football film, Salute (1929), where he got introduced to Ford and John Wayne. His prolific career included frequent collaborations with these two legends. Over his career, Bond was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture on 13 occasions.

Bond was a member of the conservative group, Motion Picture Alliance for the Preservation of American Ideals, whose main agenda was opposing communism in the film industry. Bond's personal life also saw him married twice, first to Doris Sellers Childs in 1936 and later to Mary Louise May in 1954 after his divorce in 1944. Ward Bond passed away in November 1960 after suffering a heart attack. His contributions to the television industry earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.