1919 Portrait of Two Distinguished Military Officers

This photograph features two military officers, Colonel F.A. Synder and Lieutenant Colonel J.S. Bradford, captured in 1919 by the Bain News Service. At the time, the United States was emerging from World War I, a conflict that significantly shaped global politics and military strategy. Both men, likely involved in post-war planning and reconstruction efforts, represent a period of transition for the U.S. military as it shifted focus from wartime operations to peacetime organization.

The Bain News Service, known for its extensive documentation of newsworthy events and prominent figures, played a crucial role in preserving this image. Captured on a glass negative, this photograph reflects the historical context of military leadership just after one of the deadliest conflicts in history. The officers’ uniforms and demeanor exemplify the authority and responsibility that came with their ranks during a pivotal moment in U.S. history.