PBA Galleries

Gelatin silver photograph. Captioned in the negative. 20x123 cm (7¾x48½").

Mary Pickford, "America's Sweetheart," is on a platform with an American flag, though partially obscured by others on the platform. She was clearly visible to the men in the regiment, who stand at attention facing her. Soon after America's entry into World War I, Mary Pickford was made an Honorary Colonel to the 143rd Field Artillery, a role she took seriously. She made frequent visits to Camp Kearny near San Diego, where she would review the troops, blew a special silver whistle to start the camp football games, and made sure the boys had plenty of tobacco. She presented each one with a gold locket containing her picture, which were worn by the men in action in France. When the government asked her to make a propaganda picture, Mary asked Frances Marion to write the scenario for Johanna Enlists, and the soldiers from the 143rd would appear throughout the film, going about their duties.