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Today in World War II History

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Today in World War II History—Oct. 29, 1940 & 1945

Thursday, October 29, 2020 by Sarah Sundin
First drawing of the Selective Service, 29 October 1940 (FDR Library Photo Collection)

First drawing of the Selective Service, 29 October 1940 (FDR Library Photo Collection)

80 Years Ago—Oct. 29, 1940: In nationally broadcast lottery, Secretary of War Henry Stimson pulls the first number for the US draft, and first 900 names are pulled, including actor James Stewart and future president John F. Kennedy. First name pulled: Yuen Chong Chan.

All Greek men 21-40 are called up into the army to combat the Italian invasion.

US Victory Loan Drive poster by Norman Rockwell, 1945

US Victory Loan Drive poster by Norman Rockwell, 1945

75 Years Ago—Oct. 29, 1945: US Eighth War Loan Drive (Victory Loan Drive) begins. [Read more: “World War II War Bonds”] 

First ballpoint pen goes on sale in the US, sold by Reynolds for $12.50 each.

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