Martha "Big Mouth" Raye: The Hollywood Star Who Soldiers Knew as Col Maggie

Known by her nickname of "Big Mouth", Martha Raye, an American actress and comedian, is often remembered for her unique combination of show business talent and her deep commitment to charitable causes, particularly her service to U.S. troops during the Vietnam War. While she enjoyed success as a performer, it is her service as a volunteer nurse and entertainer for the U.S. military during the war that earned her long-lasting admiration and respect.

Martha Raye was born on August 27, 1916, in Butte, Montana. Her birth name was Margy Reed, but she later adopted the stage name "Martha Raye." She grew up in a working-class family, and from an early age, she showed an interest in music and performance. Raye's career began in the 1930s when she joined vaudeville and became known for her comedy, singing, and dancing skills. She quickly gained a reputation for her loud, brash persona, often playing the role of a comedienne with an unforgettable laugh.

In the late 1930s, Raye began performing in Hollywood films. She was known for her distinctive voice, and while she was not the typical Hollywood beauty of the time, her charisma and larger-than-life personality made her a beloved figure. She worked in a variety of genres, from musicals to comedies, and starred in numerous films, such as Hellzapoppin’ (1941), Yankee Doodle Dandy (1942), and The Second Time Around (1961).

Raye was also an accomplished singer and appeared on radio and television, notably hosting The Martha Raye Show. Her career as a performer was wide-ranging, but she is perhaps best known for her wartime performances.

During World War II, Martha Raye became involved in the war effort. While many celebrities performed for troops, Raye distinguished herself by her personal commitment and hands-on approach. She performed for the troops stationed in the Pacific, and she was recognized for her willingness to entertain in combat zones, where conditions were often harsh. Raye’s ability to connect with soldiers in a deeply personal way, as well as her tireless dedication to supporting them, earned her the respect of many.

Now in her 50's with her acting career mostly behind her, Martha Raye’s most significant contribution to the U.S. military came during the Vietnam War, where she served as a volunteer nurse and entertainer. By this point in her life, she had achieved significant fame, but she was eager to focus on her desire to give back to the troops. Her service during the war was not just about entertaining; she played a pivotal role in providing much-needed comfort and morale-boosting to soldiers fighting in the war.

Raye first traveled to Vietnam in 1965, shortly after the United States escalated its involvement in the conflict. She began her service by visiting military bases, performing comedy routines, and hosting shows for soldiers. However, she soon took on a more direct role by volunteering as a nurse in combat zones, a move that would come to define her legacy. She worked alongside military doctors and medics, caring for wounded soldiers and assisting in various capacities, all while continuing to entertain and perform.

Raye's work in Vietnam was extraordinary in its intensity and scope. She spent much of her time in hospitals and field units, including those in remote areas. In addition to her entertainment efforts, she also worked tirelessly to provide medical assistance and comfort to soldiers, many of whom were severely injured. Her performances were often scheduled at field hospitals, where soldiers recovering from combat would receive a much-needed respite in the form of laughter and companionship.

She became a familiar and beloved figure among the soldiers. Martha Raye's ability to lift the spirits of the troops with her humor and warmth earned her the affectionate nickname "The GI's Best Girl." She did not shy away from the dangers of the front lines, traveling with military personnel and often putting herself in harm’s way to be with the troops. Her involvement in the war was not just a matter of entertaining; it was a commitment to the welfare of the men and women who served in combat.

Martha Raye’s contributions to the Vietnam War were recognized by the U.S. military, and she was awarded several honors for her service. One of the most notable of these was the Commendation Medal for her efforts as a nurse and entertainer in Vietnam. In 1969, she received the Congressional Gold Medal, an honor given to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation, particularly in times of war. Additionally, she was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for her work with the U.S. Army.

Even after her return from Vietnam, Raye continued her humanitarian work, particularly through organizations that supported veterans. Her involvement in the war, along with her entertaining, remained a defining part of her life and legacy. Raye passed away on October 19, 1994, at the age of 78, but her service during the Vietnam War is often cited as one of the most poignant and meaningful contributions she made.

In 1970, Martha Raye took on the role of Boss Witch, the "Queen of all Witchdom," in the feature film Pufnstuf, produced by Sid and Marty Krofft. This performance led to her being cast as the villainess Benita Bizarre in another Krofft production, The Bugaloos, also in 1970.

Raye frequently appeared as a guest star on various television programs, especially those that showcased older performers. She made regular appearances on shows like The Love Boat and had a stint on The Roy Rogers and Dale Evans Show, a short-lived variety program. Raye also portrayed Carrie Sharples, Mel's mother, on Alice, appearing from the third to the ninth seasons, with two or three appearances each season.

Additionally, she made guest appearances or cameos on series such as Murder, She Wrote, The Andy Williams Show, and McMillan & Wife. She later returned to McMillan & Wife in a retooled version of the series, where she took over the role of Agatha after Nancy Walker left the show. Raye's final film appearance was in 1979 in the disaster movie The Concorde... Airport '79, where she played an airline passenger.

Raye's personal life was complex and emotionally tumultuous. Married seven times, Martha Raye’s life was one of contradictions, but in many ways, these contradictions are what made her an enduring figure. As a comedian and actress, she entertained millions, yet it was her tireless service to the U.S. military that secured her place in history. Her decision to volunteer as a nurse and her unwavering commitment to the troops in Vietnam solidified her as a beloved figure among soldiers. Martha Raye will always be remembered not only for her contributions to Hollywood but also for her extraordinary dedication to the men and women who served in Vietnam, offering them much-needed comfort, humor, and care in a time of war.

Upon her death, Martha Raye was honored by being buried with full military honors at the Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg) Main Post cemetery in Spring Lake, North Carolina. This location was particularly meaningful as it was home to the United States Army Special Forces, where Raye had earned a special place in the hearts of the troops. In recognition of her extensive USO work during the Vietnam War, the Fifth Special Forces Group (Airborne) made her an honorary Green Beret, a rare and distinguished honor that symbolized her deep connection to the military and her dedication to the soldiers she served.

Despite her fame in the entertainment world, Raye's service in Vietnam and her selfless dedication to the troops overshadowed her career as a performer in the eyes of many. She was often described as someone who didn’t seek the spotlight but rather wanted to make a real difference in the lives of soldiers during one of the most controversial and tumultuous conflicts in American history.