On March 24, 1958, Elvis was inducted into the United States Army at the Memphis Draft Board and assigned serial number 53310761. On March 25, at Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, he received his indoctrination exam and traditional, military, G.I. haircut in front of 55 media photographers. Elvis commented to the crowd, “Hair today, gone tomorrow.”
Elvis received basic training at Fort Hood, Texas. Private Presley was assigned to the 2nd Armored Division at Fort Hood and received advanced tank instruction. Elvis completed his basic training by the end of May. He earned a marksman's medal and was classified as a sharpshooter with a pistol. Elvis also was named acting assistant leader of his squad. Elvis was stationed there for six months and his parents joined him at a temporary home near the base.
To salute our troops and to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of Elvis’ U.S. Army military service in 2018, Graceland offers a 10% discount on the “Elvis Experience Tour” to VetRewards subscribers when they present their VetRewards Card at Graceland. This includes an audio-guided tour of the Graceland Mansion and orientation film, plus exhibits showcasing Elvis' career, his automobiles, his wardrobe, his gold records and much more from the Graceland Archives.
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