When it came to her character in “M*A*S*H,” there was one thing Loretta Swit was eager to cool down.
The actress, who played Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan in the series, told Fox News Digital she wasn’t crazy about her character’s nickname, one that has stuck decades later.
“I understand nicknames come with great love and admiration for a character,” the star explained. “But it was an insult as far as I was concerned. She wasn’t just a piece of anatomy. She was a major in the United States Army, and she should not be disrespected.”
Loretta Swit said she “set up SwitHeart Animal Alliance to prevent cruelty and end animal suffering.” (Paul Archuleta/Getty Images)
Swit said, over the years, she also wanted to raise awareness of “our four-legged friends.” SwitHeart Animal Alliance teams up with other organizations to bring military dogs home, reuniting them with their handlers or matching them with a veteran in need of a companion.
“SwitHeart – The Watercolour Artistry & Animal Activism of Loretta Swit” features illustrations made by the star in support of her love for animals in need. (Tasia Wells/Getty Images)
“Lots of vets always tell me how much of a difference it has made in their lives to be paired with former military dogs,” she explained. “You can’t just bring someone back from war, dump them in the middle of New York City and expect them to react a certain way. Well, the same applies to dogs.
“They too have different memories, different experiences. That’s why they need our support. And, in turn, we can enhance the lives of our veterans looking for a companion. These dogs are rehabilitated and given the confidence they need to become the soul, the eyes, the guidance of someone in need.”
Loretta Swit (left) and Betty White bonded over their mutual love of animals. White died in 2021 at age 99. (Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for the Wildlife WayStation)
Over the years, Swit said, hearing the stories of veterans has “enhanced” her life.
Loretta Swit continues to receive letters from veterans eager to share their life experiences with the actress. (Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
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“It gives you such a deep appreciation for our country, for the sacrifices they made, even after they come back home,” she said. “It can be difficult to absorb their stories. But they need us. So many of them are misunderstood. And a simple thank-you goes such a long way.”
While Swit played an army brat on TV, the role has given her more than fame, she pointed out.
“It introduced me to the real experiences of our servicemen and women,” she said. “And I gained so many friends along the way. These friendships will last forever. And that has truly been a gift.”
Stephanie Nolasco covers entertainment at Foxnews.com.
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