Elvis Aaron Presley is best known for his Singing, he is known as the "King of Rock and Roll"or even just "The King". With top hits such as Can't Help Falling in Love, and Don't Be Cruel. Elvis was born on January 8, 1935 and passed away August 16, 1977. During this time, he was best known for his music, but this is not all he achieved. Like all Americans at that time, he was required to join the army at the age of 18. In January 1953 he registered for the U.S. Selective Service System, where he was then able to go and finished his senior year of high school. Where after he started in the entertainment industry and by 1956 he was a Star in recordings, films and concerts.
In January 1957, the Memphis Draft Board held a press conference where it was announced the Elvis would most likely be drafted later that year. Some divisions such as the Navy offered to create a specially trained 'Elvis Presley company'. These specials treatments were turned down by Elvis who wished to be treated like every other person in the army. On December 20, 1957 Elvis received his draft notice. He had already started filming a new film called "'King Creole", so he asked for a special deferment, so he could finish his film. The Memphis Draft Board granted Elvis a deferment until March 20, 1958. On March 24, 1958 Elvis was sworn in and then shipped off to Fort Chaffee, Arkansas for further processing. From here he was assigned to the Second Armored Division's 'Hell On Wheels' unit and was stationed at Fort Hood in Texas.
Later he was assigned to the Third Armored 'Spearhead' Division, and stationed in Friedberg, Germany -- it was here that he met Priscilla Beaulieu, who would eventually become his wife over seven years later. Elvis still stayed in music and film even while in the army. He carried on producing songs and also made a film called G.I. Blues, which he started while in Germany. A large number of his division also got to experience the "Elvis life" when they acted as extras in the film when some pre-production scenery was shot on location in Germany. By February 1960 Elvis had been promoted to sergeant, and had finished his 18 month stay in Germany. A number of his division have been recorded saying that more than once Elvis did more than was needed, he went the extra mile, just because he did not want anyone thinking he was getting special treatment because of his fame and reputation. While in Germany he also received a medals for marksmanship.
Finally in March of 1960. At Fort Dix, New Jersey he was honorably discharged from active duty meaning Elvis had finished his army life. Elvis went on to finish G.I. Blues after his discharge. From here Elvis Presley became the Star we know his as , producing music and films, over fifty years and a multitude of hits later, his legendary status and legacy as the King of Rock 'n' Roll is still secure.
Finding out that Elvis was just like every other American of his time , and that he still had to serve makes you realize the type of person he truly was.What are your favorite memories from Elvis ? Why not drop me a list of your favorite hits and films in the comments section below ...
No comments:
Post a Comment