A handsomely-matted sepia postcard photograph of the American March King, which he signs at the lower right corner. A fine example.

Just one year after signing this photograph, Sousa was commissioned as a lieutenant in the Naval Reserve. Although he was already 62 years old--the age at which military retirement became compulsory--he was placed in charge of a Navy Band near Chicago. He donated all of his salary, save for one dollar, to the Sailors' and Mariners' Relief Fund. In November 1918, Sousa was discharged from active duty and returned to his own band, though he would continue to wear his Navy uniform while conducting.