Induction at Ft Niagara: 4-11-41

Melville J. Batt, a lifelong resident of North Tonawanda, New York, was drafted into United States Army service on April 11, 1941. He reported for duty and was sworn in at a recruiting post at old Fort Niagara, which was a historic site since 1934 but at the time was still property of the US Government. These were his first photographs taken in uniform. "Mel," as he liked to be called, had a great interest in history. So this 1812-era fort was a fitting place for him to enter Army service.

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Grandpa's Army

three people standing next to each other on top of a grass covered field near the ocean

Mel with his Mother and sister at Fort Niagara 1941

A portrait of Mel with his Mother and his sister, Marilyn. She was 16 at the time. Marilyn passed away recently. This is presumed to be at Fort Niagara on the date of his induction. His younger brother Vernon was not there at the time. My Dad thinks they were taking these photos with him "in case he didn't come back"

Date of Induction

US Army Recruit Melville "Mel" Batt, in his new uniform, salutes at the front gate to historic Fort Niagara, where he was drafted into service on April 11, 1941. Printed from an original negative.