The Stars and Stripes, Vol. 1, No. 1, February 8, 1918

A freshly printed wartime newspaper arrives straight from the front lines of France, bearing the voice of the American Expeditionary Forces’ leadership. Its opening message, signed by the commander‑in‑chief, frames the paper as a bridge between soldiers in the trenches and the nation they represent, reminding readers of the honor and duty that brought them overseas. The tone blends solemn responsibility with a quiet confidence, echoing the spirit of early American volunteers on foreign soil. It sets the stage for a publication meant to capture the thoughts and experiences of those fighting far from home.

Beyond the introductory address, the paper turns to the practicalities of army life, laying out clear rules for leave after four months of service. Readers learn about rotating “leave zones” across France, the distinction between ordinary white tickets and coveted pink tickets for Paris, and the logistics of special trains ferrying soldiers to their brief respites. The detailed guidance offers a glimpse into how the military balanced discipline with the need for rest, while also revealing the everyday concerns of men eager for a taste of civilian life amid the hardships of war.