Historic 1917 N.Y.A.C. Military Corps Gathering

This photograph captures the N.Y.A.C. Military Corps at a pivotal moment during World War I, taken on July 2, 1917, by the Bain News Service. The N.Y.A.C., or New York Athletic Club, was a prominent organization that contributed to war efforts by training soldiers to support the American military. During this period, the U.S. was ramping up its involvement in the war, and military units like the N.Y.A.C. were crucial in preparing men for combat and supporting logistical needs.

The image, a glass negative, highlights a time of great change in American society as the nation mobilized for war. Photography from this era serves as a valuable snapshot, illustrating not just the individuals within the military corps but also the broader context of a country uniting for a common cause. This photograph adds to our understanding of military history and the roles various organizations played during World War I, as they worked alongside the official armed forces to bolster Americas readiness in a time of global conflict.