Originally a member of the 8th Co. Coastal Artillery based out of Narragansett Bay (RI) until April 1918, Walter eventually joined the 102nd Field Artillery of the 26th Yankee Division. I was lucky enough to acquire two inscribed photographs depicting Walter in both roles. His seated portrait was taken before his June 1918 departure for overseas service.
An interestingly decorated backmark shows that the seated portrait was taken in at 162 Thames Street in Newport, RI. The Electric Studio’s logo includes a fanned array of lightning bolts emanating from the written portion of the backmark.
For further information on the Rhode Island National Guard unit Walter belonged to, click the link below:
Portraits of War 