Elvis Presley In Military Uniform Source Bing.com
Elvis Presley, also known as “The King of Rock and Roll,” was not only a legendary musician but also a proud member of the United States military. In 1958, Elvis was drafted into the U.S. Army and served as a regular soldier for two years. During his time in the military, Elvis was promoted to the rank of sergeant and even received an honorable discharge. However, Elvis’ military career did not end there. He later starred in a movie called “G.I. Blues,” where he played an Air Force officer.
Joining the Military
Elvis Presley In Military Uniform Source Bing.com
Elvis Presley was drafted into the U.S. Army on March 24, 1958, at the age of 23. At the time, he was the most famous entertainer to be drafted since World War II. Despite his fame, Elvis did not receive any special treatment during his military training. He went through basic training at Fort Hood, Texas, and then went on to advanced training at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas. During his time in the military, Elvis was stationed in Germany, where he served as a jeep driver for his unit.
Rank and Discharge
Elvis Presley In Military Uniform Source Bing.com
Elvis Presley was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 1960, just before he was discharged from the military. He received an honorable discharge on March 5, 1960, after serving for two years. During his time in the military, Elvis had a positive impact on his fellow soldiers. He was known for his generosity and would often give away his own money and possessions to those in need.
G.I. Blues
G.I. Blues Movie Poster Source Bing.com
After his military service, Elvis Presley returned to his career as a musician and actor. In 1960, he starred in the movie “G.I. Blues,” which was loosely based on his own military experiences. In the movie, Elvis played a smooth-talking Air Force officer named Tulsa McLean. The movie was a box office success and helped to solidify Elvis’ status as a movie star.
Other Military Movies
Jailhouse Rock Movie Poster Source Bing.com
Although “G.I. Blues” was the only movie specifically about Elvis Presley’s military career, he appeared in several other movies with military themes. In the 1957 movie “Jailhouse Rock,” Elvis played a prisoner who joins the Army. In the 1964 movie “Kissin’ Cousins,” he played a soldier who is sent on a mission to convince his distant relatives to sell their land to the government.
Legacy
Elvis Presley In Military Uniform Source Bing.com
Elvis Presley’s military career was an important part of his life and legacy. It showed that he was willing to put his career on hold to serve his country, and it helped to humanize him in the eyes of his fans. His military service also influenced his music and movies, and helped to shape the image that he presented to the world. Today, Elvis Presley is remembered not only as a musical icon but also as a proud member of the U.S. military.
