On 6, April 1917 the United States of America declared war on Germany in response to the sinking, by German U boats, of US ships. The Selective Service Act of 1917 or Selective Draft Act, enacted May 18, 1917 authorized the United States federal government to raise a national army for service in World War I through conscription. It was envisioned in December 1916 and brought to President Woodrow Wilson’s attention shortly after the break in relations with Germany in February 1917.
Ancestors during this time period.
George Holmes Edwards – Registered on September 12, 1918 – age 37. Registration card on record – no records that he actually served.