Why Did Elvis Join the Military?
Elvis Aaron Presley, the iconic American musician and cultural icon, is widely known for his music, dance, and style, which earned him the nickname "The King of Rock and Roll." However, few people know that Elvis joined the United States Army in 1958 and served until 1960. Why did Elvis join the military? In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind his decision.
Draft or Volunteered?
On August 24, 1957, Elvis was drafted into the United States Army for a two-year period of service. At the time, the military was dealing with a surplus of new recruits, and the Korean War had ended just five years earlier. However, Elvis had actually volunteered to join the military before the draft notice arrived. On December 16, 1957, Elvis’s manager, Colonel Tom Parker, contacted the Army Recruitment Office in Memphis, and Elvis signed up for an enlistment of three years.
Physical and Medical Examinations
Prior to his enlistment, Elvis underwent a series of physical and medical examinations. On January 4, 1958, he was examined at the Eastern West Tennessee Area Recruiting Center in Memphis. The doctors found that Elvis had high blood pressure, which was a problem for the military at the time. As a result, Elvis was classified 1-A, which meant he was eligible for induction. However, the Army subsequently reclassified him as 1-Y, which allowed him to join the Armed Forces but not in a position that required high physical performance.
Training and Ranks
After his arrival at Fort Hood, Texas, Elvis began his training as a regular soldier. He was assigned to Alpha Company, 1st Medium Tank Battalion, 32nd Armor Regiment. Elvis was given the rank of Private and later upgraded to Private First Class after completing his training. On March 5, 1958, Elvis began his basic training, and on March 25, 1959, he took a break from training to focus on his music career. He was honorably discharged from the Army on March 5, 1960, with the rank of Sergeant.
Family and Career Influences
Elvis’s decision to join the military was not solely his own. His family, particularly his mother, Gladys, played a significant role in his decision. Gladys was worried about Elvis’s increasing fame and the constant attention it brought, as well as the moral implications of his music. She thought that joining the military would help Elvis find a new sense of purpose and put his fame in perspective.
Elvis’s music career also influenced his decision. The rock ‘n’ roll era was in full swing, and Elvis was becoming increasingly influential. However, the success came with controversy, criticism, and concerns about Elvis’s moral character. Some critics accused him of inciting juvenile delinquency, and there were reports of Elvis’s excessive dancing causing moral decay. Joining the military might have helped Elvis distance himself from his controversial image and demonstrate to the public that he was more than just a music sensation.
Psychological Factors
Some psychologists and biographers believe that Elvis’s mental and emotional state played a significant role in his decision to join the military. Elvis had struggled with issues such as depression, insomnia, and feelings of emptiness. Joining the military might have been an attempt to find a new sense of purpose and confidence, as well as escape the pressures and scrutiny that came with fame.
| Reasons for Elvis Joining the Military | Importance/Influence |
|---|---|
| Family influence (Gladys) | Crucial, as his mother’s concerns about Elvis’s fame and moral implications played a significant role |
| Music career influences (stereotypes and criticism) | Important, as joining the military helped Elvis separate himself from controversy and allegations |
| Psychological factors (mental and emotional state) | Notable, as Elvis struggled with inner demons and might have joined the military to find purpose and confidence |
Lessons Learned and Legacy
Elvis’s time in the military taught him several valuable lessons, including discipline, teamwork, and responsibility. After his discharge, Elvis became more focused on his music and career, releasing hits like "In the Ghetto" and " Suspicious Minds." His experiences in the military also inspired his famous song "G.I. Blues."
In conclusion, Elvis joined the military in 1958 for a combination of reasons, including family influence, music career influences, and psychological factors. His experiences in the military had a profound impact on his life and legacy, teaching him valuable lessons and inspiring some of his most iconic songs. While Elvis’s time in the military was short-lived, it remains an important and fascinating chapter in his story.
