Lieutenant in Uniform: A 1917 WWI Era Portrait

This glass negative photograph features Lieutenant Blair Thaw, captured in June 1917 by the Bain News Service. As a pivotal moment in U.S. history, the year marked Americas entry into World War I, a conflict that would fundamentally reshape global politics and society. Thaw, as an officer, would have been part of the military efforts that mobilized millions of American troops, highlighting the shift to a more active role for the United States on the world stage.

The image not only represents an individual soldier but also serves as a document of the times military culture and attire. Officers wore distinctive uniforms that denoted rank and played a crucial role in maintaining order and morale among troops. This period was characterized by significant advancements in technology and tactics, and each photograph of military personnel helps us understand the human element behind these historical developments. Thaws image encapsulates both the personal stories of those who served and the broader narrative of a nation grappling with the challenges of war.