Joe DiMaggio The Soldier

This Day in Baseball History: February 17th

On February 17th, 1943, Joe DiMaggio stepped away from baseball and joined the war effort. Joe DiMaggio is considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time, but his impact extends far beyond the diamond. DiMaggio's service in World War II is a testament to his character, dedication, and love for his country.

In 1941, DiMaggio was at the height of his career with the New York Yankees. He had just completed a record-breaking 56-game hitting streak, and his team had won the World Series. However, his world was about to be turned upside down.

After the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, the United States declared war on Japan. DiMaggio, like many other young men of his generation, felt a sense of duty to serve his country. He knew that his baseball career would have to wait.

DiMaggio enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Forces in February 1943. Despite his celebrity status, he was not given any special treatment. He went through the same basic training as any other recruit and was assigned to the 7th Air Force in Hawaii.

DiMaggio's job in the military was to play baseball. That might sound like a cushy assignment, but it was actually a crucial part of the war effort. Baseball games were used to boost morale among the troops, and DiMaggio was one of the biggest names in the game. In addition to playing baseball, DiMaggio also served as a physical fitness instructor. However, Dimaggio began to feel guilty about how his contribution to the war effort. He asked for a combat assignment but was turned down.

DiMaggio's time in the military was not without controversy. He was accused of being a "draft dodger" by some in the press who believed that he had avoided the draft by getting a job in a defense plant. However, these accusations were unfounded. DiMaggio had tried to enlist earlier but was rejected due to a knee injury.

DiMaggio was honorably discharged from the military in September 1945, just a few weeks after Japan surrendered. He was suffering from chronic stomach ulcers. He returned to baseball and helped lead the Yankees to four more World Series titles.

DiMaggio's service in World War II is a testament to his character and his love for his country. Despite his fame and success, he was willing to put it all on hold to serve in the military. He played an essential role in boosting morale among the troops and helped bring a bit of home to those who were fighting overseas. His bravery and sacrifice should be remembered as an example to us all.