1917 Military Medical Inspection Moment

This glass negative photograph titled Maj. Gregory, Medical Inspection, taken in 1917 by the Bain News Service, captures a moment during a military medical examination. Maj. Gregory, the central figure, represents the standards of health and fitness expected among military personnel during World War I. At the time, rigorous medical inspections were crucial to ensure that soldiers were physically capable of withstanding the demands of service, especially given the wars intense physical and psychological toll.

The image is significant for illustrating the medical practices employed by the military during this pivotal period. Medical inspections like the one shown involved a thorough assessment of each soldier’s health, which included checking for any illnesses or conditions that could impede their ability to serve. This focus on health was essential as the U.S. military sought to field a robust and ready force. Captured in the era of early press photography, this image not only provides a glimpse into military life but also highlights the importance of medical evaluations in safeguarding the wellbeing of troops.