Provost Guard Gorget circa 1915-1917?

[world war I nerd]

This pair of pre-WW I soldiers are identified as Provost Guards by the gorgets placed around their necks.

 

I have no information regarding who, where or when this image was taken. However judging by the clothing and shoes worn, the image is likely circa 1915 to 1917.

 

Motorcycles were first used by the U.S. Army in 1913 for patrolling and delivering messages along the Mexican border. However, the U.S. Army only employed motorcycles in relatively small numbers until their usefulness in Mexico and along the border led to the formation of the 1st Motorcycle Company in 1916. After which, the use of motorbikes spread like wildfire throughout the remainder of the U.S. Army. Because the number of motorcycles used by the Army rose in 1916 and grew significantly larger in 1917, the odds suggest that the photo is probably dated closer to 1917 than to 1915.

 

If from the 1915 to 1917 period, the men could be U.S. Army Regulars ... National Guardsmen ... or State Guard troops who replaced the National Guard for home service, after they had been sworn into Federal service during WW I.

 

Can anybody provide information on the unusual "Provost Guard Gorget"?

 

Thanks to all for looking ... World War I Nerd

[world war I nerd]

Closer views of the Provost Guard Gorgets ...

[tarbridge]

Great image.

[Mr.Jerry]

That is really neat. I had no idea that the US had them. Great bike image too!

[Bluehawk]

That is really neat. I had no idea that the US had them. Great bike image too!

Me either and Me too!