Private Babe Ruth

Today’s post comes from National Archives Office of Strategy and Communications staff writer Rob Crotty.

Babe Ruth’s World War I draft card (Records of the Selective Service System)

George Herman “Babe” Ruth was no exception to the military draft that took place during World War I, but as fate would have it, the Great Bambino’s number was never called.

Still, “Babe” Ruth managed to serve his country. Eighty-six years ago this month, the Sultan of Swat traded out his swing for a salute and enlisted in the 104th Field Artillery Division of the New York Army National Guard before a huge crowd in Times Square. Not only did he join the ranks of the military, but he also joined a growing group of veteran celebrities including Jimi Hendrix, Joe Louis, and Jack Kerouac.

75 years ago today the Great Bambino hit his 714th (and final) home run.

Private Ruth renders General Pershing a smart salute (Library of Congress)

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