From the Archives – Walt Disney, World War I Driver

From 1914 to 1918, Europe endured the horrors of The Great War, later known as World War I. In recognition of the 100th anniversary, “From the Archives” will feature a series of articles describing Red Cross involvement in the war. When the United States entered the war in 1917, Walt Disney’s older brothers enlisted, but 16-year-old Walt was denied enlistment because of his age. Disney was determined to do his part. When a friend learned that the Red Cross Ambulance Corps would accept volunteers as young as 17, Disney used his artistic skills to alter the birth date on his passport application from “1901” to “1900” so that he could go and serve his country. Disney reported for training at Camp Scott, a temporary encampment near the University of Chicago. Yellow Cab Company mechanics taught recruits how to repair motors, assemble and disassemble vehicles, and drive over rough terrain. Because his departure to Europe was delayed while he recovered from influenza, Disney’s unit sailed without him. He then joined another company awaiting transport to France. While that unit waited to be shipped out, the war ended with the armistice on November 11, 1918. Nevertheless, they shipped out 50 men the following day to aid in the occupation. Disney was number 50. Disney is seen above in his Red Cross uniform, and on the right with a group of his buddies. Because he hadn’t left the U.S. until after the war ended, Disney never fulfilled his desire t...
Source: Red Cross Chat - Category: Global & Universal Authors: Tags: Archives Celebrity History Volunteers Walt Disney world war I Source Type: news