Today's Tidbit... Waiting On The Sidelines

The U.S. entered WWI in April 1917, thirty-three months after most other nations became involved. The U.S. Navy quickly engaged in protecting American shores and convoying supplies across the Atlantic, while the Army and Marines took a bit longer to engage. Both needed cadres of experienced officers and NCOs to train the volunteers and draftees that poured into their training camps.

The first American troops sent to France arrived in September 1917 and were there to show support more than to enga...