World War I: Sgt. Gibson Coaching Soldiers in Baseball

The photograph titled Sgt. Gibson drilling Yankees, 1917 captures a moment from a unique intersection of baseball and military service during World War I. Taken by a Bain News Service photographer, this image features Sgt. Gibson, who was likely tasked with training or motivating a baseball team known as the Yankees. This period saw many baseball players trading their bats for uniforms, serving not only as athletes but also as symbols of national pride and camaraderie.

In 1917, the United States was deeply involved in World War I, and sports provided a vital link to normalcy for soldiers and civilians alike. Baseball was especially popular, with games often serving as morale boosters for troops. The photograph reflects not just a moment in sports history but also a slice of life during a tumultuous time, illustrating how the game provided comfort and community amidst the challenges of war.