Philadelphia-born Ignatius "Iggie" Wolfington, who graduated West Philadelphia Catholic Boys High School, studied at the Philadelphia School of Theatre 1939-40 and American Theatre Wing 1946-47. During World War II, he served in the infantry of the U.S. Army, reportedly fighting in the Battle of the Bulge, and was awarded a Purple Heart with oakleaf cluster and Bronze Star, rising to the rank of First Lieutenant.