“My inquiry was directed at your wife”: Before Getting Divorced Within a Year Marilyn Monroe Left Her Honeymoon to Entertain War Troops
In 1954, during her honeymoon in Japan with the renowned baseball star Joe DiMaggio, the iconic Hollywood actress Marilyn Monroe made an unexpected yet heartfelt detour to visit troops who had valiantly fought on the front lines during the Korean War. This impromptu visit, aimed at boosting the morale of the American soldiers stationed in Korea, marked a poignant moment in the life of the beloved star, as well as a pivotal chapter in her relationship with Joe DiMaggio.
Marilyn Monroe’s presence in Korea was part of her involvement with the USO, an organization dedicated to providing entertainment and support to the armed forces. However, this selfless act of goodwill inadvertently set in motion a series of events that would strain her marriage to Joe DiMaggio. Joe, who was her second husband, had been initially supportive of her career and public appearances. Still, as the days turned into months and the year progressed, the gap between Marilyn and Joe seemed to widen steadily.
A Honeymoon Detour: Marilyn Monroe’s Grateful Journey to Korea
In February of 1954, during what was supposed to be a romantic honeymoon with her second husband, baseball legend Joe DiMaggio, Marilyn Monroe embarked on a journey that would forever leave a mark on both her career and her personal life. Just fifteen days after their wedding, the newlyweds departed for Japan, seeking a brief escape from the public eye. Little did they know that their honeymoon was about to take an unexpected and meaningful turn.
As Pan American Airways’ new Boeing 377 Stratocruiser began its descent into Tokyo, a momentous encounter occurred. Major General Charles W. Christenberry, the assistant chief of staff at the U.S. Army’s Far East Command, approached the plane’s most celebrated passengers: Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe. He leaned over their seats and posed a question that would alter the course of their journey. Charles W. Christenberry told Monroe (via History Net),
“How would you like to visit Korea for a few days and entertain the American troops currently stationed in Seoul as part of the UN occupation force?” He further said, “I wasn’t asking you, Mr. DiMaggio. My inquiry was directed at your wife.”
Marilyn Monroe viewed the proposal as a rare chance to give back to American enlisted men abroad, who had fervently written fan letters to Hollywood studios, championing her for more significant film roles. Her trip to Korea served as her way to express gratitude and reciprocate the troops’ support. This unexpected visit marked the sole instance in her career when she entertained troops as both a singer and movie star, underscoring her commitment to her patriotic duty and deep concern for the well-being of soldiers who had valiantly fought in the wake of the Korean War.
The Turbulent Love Story of Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio
In 1954, Marilyn Monroe and baseball legend Joe DiMaggio entered into their second marriage, embarking on a journey that was far from smooth. Their union commenced with a civil ceremony at San Francisco City Hall on January 14, following two years of a tumultuous and highly publicized courtship. Beneath the glamorous facade, it was becoming evident that they were swiftly growing apart, moving in opposing directions.
Initially, Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe appeared to be the perfect power couple. Their presence alone could bring New York’s Fifth Avenue to a standstill, and they effortlessly commanded attention wherever they went. However, his attempts to control Monroe’s rising career led to ongoing conflict and tension within their relationship.
Despite the visible challenges, genuine affection existed between them at the start and the end of their relationship. Although their marriage may not have brought them happiness, it was undeniable that a deep and enduring connection bound them, transcending the tumultuous phases of their time together.
