It’s John Wayne‘s birthday today. Few Hollywood stars had such a major and lasting impact, with his famous walk, drawl and silhouette still easily recognisable – even if he never actually said, “Get off your horse and drink your milk.”

Way back in 1929, he had a small uncredited role in the American Football film Salute. It would be the start of his lifelong relationship with legendary director John Ford – but it also forged a friendship with fellow actor Ward Bond who, for one of the few…