Registered 1917

Illustration of an American flag and blue text on a white background

The Selective Service Act was passed by Congress on May 18, 1917 and authorized the President of the United States to increase military numbers through mandatory enlistment. All men aged 21 to 30 years of age were required to register for military service for a period of 12 months. District boards oversaw local boards, which were established for each county (or similar division) in each state. There were three registrations during World War I, the first of which was held on the date listed on this button, June 5, 1917. As Chilton, Wisconsin is located in Calumet County, a registrant with this button would have received either roll number W16 (for surnames beginning with A-K) or W17 (for surnames beginning with L-Z).