Preston Hanson

Preston Hanson (January 17, 1921 – February 12, 2008) was an American actor known for his appearances in over 30 TV series and movies spanning a career of 40 years. Born in Iowa, he relocated to California in 1940 and studied at Pasadena Junior College. During World War II, Hanson served as a combat pilot in Europe, completing 65 attack missions and earning the Air Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross. He later became a major in the Air Force Reserve. Notable film and television credits include Dynasty, Gunsmoke, Dallas, Goodbye, Norma Jean, Action Jackson, and The A-Team. Hanson's last credit was in the 1994 comedy Cops and Robbersons. He also had Broadway appearances in Much Ado About Nothing, Saint Joan, and Billy Budd. Aside from his acting career, Hansen also ventured into politics, running for the Democratic nomination for Congress in 1964 and seeking the Democratic nomination for the California Legislature in 1966. Hanson was married to Lorraine Johnson.