1917 Soldiers Training in Pistol Firing at Camp Upton

This historical photograph captures a pistol-firing training session at Camp Upton on September 15, 1917, during World War I. Camp Upton, located in Yaphank, New York, served as a critical training facility for American soldiers during the war. Established in 1917, the camp trained thousands of troops before they were deployed overseas, playing a vital role in preparing the U.S. military to engage in combat.

The image, produced by the Bain News Service, highlights the importance of marksmanship training in the military. Soldiers received instruction in various weaponry, with pistol training being a key part of their preparation for the battlefield. These training sessions were designed to enhance their skills and ensure they were ready to protect themselves and their fellow soldiers when necessary. The photograph not only documents a specific moment in time but also illustrates the broader efforts involved in shaping a capable military force during the Great War.