1919 Military Officers in Uniform: A Historic Moment

This historical photograph captures two military officers, Lt. E.F. Stone and Lt. Com. R.A. Lavender, on May 1, 1919. Taken by the Bain News Service, the image reflects a significant period in American military history shortly after World War I, which officially ended in November 1918. In this post-war context, the United States was experiencing a transition as it reassessed its military strategies and presence on the global stage. Photographs like this one were crucial in documenting the lives and roles of military personnel during a time of change.

The use of the glass negative process for this photograph is notable, as it was a standard method for capturing images in the early 20th century. Glass negatives allowed for incredibly sharp and detailed results, which were essential for newspapers and other publications of the time. Lt. E.F. Stone served as a naval officer, while Lt. Com. R.A. Lavender’s title indicates a position of higher rank within the Navy. Their portrayal in this image contributes to our understanding of military leadership and responsibility in the aftermath of a major global conflict, highlighting the individuals who helped shape the armed forces in a new era.