Life — June 21, 1917 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Explanation for Modern Readers This Life magazine page contains a satirical cartoon about American military preparedness during what appears to be World War I era. The cartoon depicts a rotund military officer (likely a German general based on the spiked helmet) lounging comfortably while a younger soldier sits reading nearby, with papers scattered about. The caption quotes the officer assuring someone that he's taken "greatest care" of a physically unfit person—suggesting ironic commentary on how the military handles unsuitable recruits or soldiers. The accompanying article "Anyhow, We Are Getting Our Medicine" discusses General Legge of Australia's observations about American military mobilization and preparedness, arguing that despite reservations, the effort to create a fighting force is necessary and valuable.