Elvis Served Draft Notice - Today in 1957

On the significant day of December 20, 1957, amidst the festive atmosphere at Graceland, his newly acquired Tennessee estate, the legendary rock-and-roll sensation Elvis Presley finds himself on the receiving end of a draft notice from the United States Army.

Infamous for his suggestive stage presence, labeled by some as "Elvis the Pelvis," Presley had solidified his status as a national icon and the inaugural rock-and-roll star with chart-toppers like "Heartbreak Hotel," "Blue Suede Shoes," "Hound Dog," and "Don’t Be Cruel," along with a successful movie, "Love Me Tender." By the close of 1956, he had left an indelible mark. The subsequent year, at the pinnacle of his career, Presley faced a draft notice for a two-year service in the army. Despite a deluge of fan letters pleading for exemption, Presley, resolute in his commitment, declined. His military journey commenced on March 24, 1958, as he was sworn in as an army private in Memphis, following a brief deferment during which he completed work on the movie "King Creole."

Following basic training, which included a poignant emergency leave to visit his ailing mother, Gladys, who sadly passed away in August 1958, Presley embarked on a journey to Europe aboard the USS General Randall. Serving for the subsequent 18 months in Company D, 32nd Tank Battalion, 3rd Armor Division in Friedberg, Germany, he ascended to the rank of sergeant. During the remainder of his service, he shared an off-base residence with family and friends from Memphis. Evenings were marked by Presley's return from day duties to host lively gatherings and spontaneous jam sessions. It was at one such event that an army comrade introduced him to 14-year-old Priscilla Beaulieu, who would later become his wife.