Why was Elvis Drafted when there was no War?
Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, is an iconic figure in American music and culture. However, few people know that Elvis was drafted into the United States Army in 1958, during a time when there was no war. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Elvis’s military service and the circumstances that led to his draft.
The Draft Lottery
In the United States, the draft, also known as the Selective Service System, was established in 1940 to ensure a steady supply of military personnel during times of war. The draft lottery was a random process where young men were selected to serve in the military. In 1958, the United States was not engaged in any major conflicts, but the draft was still in place to prepare for potential future wars.
Elvis’s Draft Notice
On December 20, 1957, Elvis received his draft notice from the Selective Service System. He was 23 years old at the time and had already become a famous musician. Elvis’s draft notice was a shock to his fans and the music industry, as he was at the height of his career.
Why was Elvis Drafted?
There were several reasons why Elvis was drafted. Here are some of the key factors:
• Age: Elvis was born in 1935, which made him eligible for the draft. Men between the ages of 18 and 26 were required to register for the draft.
• Occupation: As a musician, Elvis was considered a "non-essential" worker, which meant he was not exempt from the draft.
• Height and Weight: Elvis was 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighed 170 pounds, which made him eligible for military service.
• Physical Health: Elvis was in good physical health, which was a requirement for military service.
Elvis’s Military Service
Elvis reported for duty at the Memphis Draft Board on December 16, 1957. He was classified as 1-A, which meant he was available for military service. Elvis was then sent to Fort Hood, Texas, for basic training.
Elvis’s Military Career
Elvis served in the United States Army from March 24, 1958, to March 5, 1960. He was stationed in Friedberg, West Germany, where he served as a jeep driver and played in the US Army’s 1st Medium Tank Battalion.
Elvis’s Military Rank
Elvis was promoted to the rank of sergeant on December 12, 1958. He was also awarded the Good Conduct Medal and the Army Occupation Medal.
Elvis’s Impact on the Military
Elvis’s military service had a significant impact on the military and the music industry. Here are some of the key effects:
• Morale Boost: Elvis’s presence in the military boosted morale among soldiers. He performed for troops and helped to raise spirits.
• Music Promotion: Elvis’s military service helped to promote his music and increase his popularity.
• Cultural Impact: Elvis’s military service had a significant cultural impact, as it helped to further cement his status as the King of Rock and Roll.
Conclusion
Elvis Presley’s draft into the United States Army in 1958 was a significant event in his life and career. Despite the fact that there was no war at the time, Elvis was drafted due to a combination of factors, including his age, occupation, height and weight, and physical health. Elvis’s military service had a significant impact on the military and the music industry, and it further solidified his status as the King of Rock and Roll.
Table: Elvis’s Military Service
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| December 20, 1957 | Draft notice received |
| December 16, 1957 | Reported for duty at the Memphis Draft Board |
| March 24, 1958 | Started basic training at Fort Hood, Texas |
| December 12, 1958 | Promoted to sergeant |
| March 5, 1960 | Discharged from the US Army |
Bullets List: Elvis’s Military Service
• Basic Training: Elvis completed basic training at Fort Hood, Texas.
• Jeep Driver: Elvis served as a jeep driver in the US Army.
• Music Performances: Elvis performed for troops and helped to raise spirits.
• Good Conduct Medal: Elvis was awarded the Good Conduct Medal.
• Army Occupation Medal: Elvis was awarded the Army Occupation Medal.
