Millett came from a proud traditional military family.  After deserting his post in the US Army Air Corps because he wanted to see battle, he joined the Canadian Army and served in England during the German blitz.  He rejoined the US Army and participated in North Africa and Italy.  His defining moment was when he fought in the Korean War and lead a baronet charge, which earned him the Medal of Honor.  Millett would finish his military career in the Vietnam War and retired in the 1970s.