World War I Sentinels: Guard at Registration Booth

This historical photograph, taken on June 5, 1917, captures a guard stationed at a military registration booth during World War I. The United States had recently entered the war, prompting the government to implement a draft to secure military personnel. The guards presence at the booth was crucial in maintaining order as men across the nation lined up to register for service, marking a significant moment in American history.

At this time, the nationwide draft registration aimed to mobilize troops to support the Allied forces. The event saw approximately 10 million American men aged 21 to 31 register, drastically altering the landscape of American society. The photograph serves as a visual record of this mobilization effort, highlighting the roles individuals played on the home front, as well as the collective commitment of the American public during a time of global conflict. The image provides insight into the efforts taken to prepare the country for war, showcasing the urgency and seriousness of the draft process.