Eight Vintage Photos Of Elvis Presley When He Was Serving In The Army

May 25, 2020 by apost team

Elvis Presley is more than the King of Rock and Roll. He also spent his early twenties in the United States Army. Eight rare pictures present highlights of his stint in the Armed Forces.

The pictures give a unique and very intimate feeling insight into young Elvis' life.

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When Elvis Presley joined the Army, he went through normal induction activities. These included a thorough physical and a standard army haircut. He also received standard army issue uniforms.

As a new soldier, Elvis was subject to the same rigorous treatment as everyone else. While at the Ft. Chaffee reception center, the rock icon was photographed standing in line with the rest of the newbies wearing nothing but his white boxer shorts. He wore the same attire as his six-foot, one-half inch height was recorded by the Army doctor.

Near the beginning of his career, an enterprising photographer snapped a photo of Elvis’ trademark hair being shorn. Elvis was also photographed standing in line, waiting to receive standard Army uniforms. Another image shows Elvis sitting on the barracks floor, polishing his black dress shoes as other soldiers surrounded him.

Two months before his discharge, Elvis was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. An Army photographer perfectly captured the King’s solemn nature as he gazed at his new uniform in the mirror. Elvis had a more serious role, and even his clothing needed to be perfect.

There were also a few lighthearted moments captured for posterity. In one image, Elvis and other soldiers are seen smiling and waving to the public from a train in Germany. Another photograph, also from Germany, shows Elvis and other soldiers sitting around a campfire in the evening one month before discharge.

These eight rare Army photographs of Elvis give a glimpse into his life in the Armed Forces. These pictures show Elvis involved in the activities of an average soldier. They portray various stages of his Army career and how his demeanor changed, or didn't change, while in the army.

What do you think of these rare Elvis Army photographs? Are they too revealing or not revealing enough? Perhaps you or a loved one has some pictures from military service they remind you of. Tell us what you think in the comments and pass this on to your fellow Elvis fans!