Was Elvis Drafted into the Military?
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, is one of the most iconic figures in music history. His unique blend of rockabilly, gospel, and rhythm and blues styles captivated audiences worldwide, and his charismatic stage presence and style continue to inspire new generations of music lovers. However, few people know that Elvis was drafted into the military, serving in the United States Army from 1958 to 1960. In this article, we’ll explore the circumstances surrounding Elvis’s military service and the impact it had on his career.
The Draft
The United States was in the midst of the Cold War in the late 1950s, and the military was expanding to counter the perceived threat from the Soviet Union. In December 1957, the Selective Service System, also known as the draft, was reinstated after a four-year hiatus. All able-bodied male citizens between the ages of 18 and 26 were required to register for the draft.
Elvis, who was 23 years old at the time, was drafted into the United States Army on December 16, 1957. He was classified as 1-A, which meant he was available for immediate service. Elvis’s draft notice was a shock to his fans and the music industry, as he was at the height of his popularity.
Military Service
Elvis reported to the Memphis Draft Board on December 20, 1957, and was subsequently sent to Ft. Hood, Texas, for basic training. He was assigned to the 1st Medium Tank Battalion, 32nd Armor Regiment, and was promoted to Private First Class (PFC) in March 1958.
Elvis’s military service was marked by a series of misadventures, including a series of mistakes on his military record, which led to his being given a low priority for deployment. As a result, Elvis was stationed in Germany, where he served as a jeep driver and performed for his fellow soldiers.
Impact on Career
Elvis’s military service had a significant impact on his career. He was unable to perform or record music during his time in the military, which led to a six-month hiatus from his recording career. Additionally, his absence from the spotlight allowed other artists to gain popularity and capitalize on the rock and roll craze.
Elvis’s Military Record
Here is a summary of Elvis’s military record:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| December 16, 1957 | Drafted into the United States Army |
| December 20, 1957 | Reported to the Memphis Draft Board |
| March 1958 | Promoted to Private First Class (PFC) |
| October 1958 | Arrived in Germany and began serving with the 1st Medium Tank Battalion, 32nd Armor Regiment |
| March 1960 | Completed his military service and was honorably discharged |
Conclusion
Elvis Presley’s military service was a significant chapter in his life, and one that had a lasting impact on his career. Despite the challenges he faced, Elvis remained dedicated to his country and served with honor. He was honorably discharged from the military in March 1960, and went on to resume his music career, which would cement his status as the King of Rock and Roll.
