1917 photo depicting the New York Yankees marching in military formation during spring training at Macon, GA. In the foreground, alongside the players is army recruiting officer Sgt. Smith Gibson of the 16th U.S. Infantry running the team through their paces. Though the United States hadn't yet officially entered World War I, in an effort to show support for the war effort, Yankees owner T.L. Hutson contacted the War Department and requested they provide the Yankees with a drill instructor to train them in basic military procedures. The request was granted and Sgt. Gibson remained with the Yankees throughout the season. In-fact, several images exist of Gibson leading the Yankees onto the field during Opening Day festivities at the Polo Grounds - April 11, 1917. 8" x 10" photo exhibits typical light corner wear with a paper tag affixed to verso identifying the occasion as "first day of drills." Full LOA from PSA/DNA.