George Baker (1) (1915–1975)

George Baker was the creator of the popular cartoon character Sad Sack, the hapless Army private in the ill-fitting uniform who never seemed to be able to do anything right. Spotlighted for his shortcomings, overlooked for his few achievements, and forever the brunt of "rank-pulling," Sad Sack became a welcome mascot for millions of American soldiers overwhelmed by the inconsistencies and red tape of military life.

The character of Sad Sack has been capitalized into a sizable industry, including drinking glasses, costume jewelry, appliques for clothing, comic books, animated cartoons, and a radio series featuring the voice of Jim Backus, which was later released as a sound recording by Mark 56 Records in 1975. A movie based on Baker's work was produced by Paramount and starred Jerry Lewis as the bungling private.