HARRY A. ZELDES was a civilian attempting to sign
up for active duty in World War II. His plaintive letter
to the president explains his many qualifications for
becoming a soldier, including his fine health, college
education, and work experience. Unfortunately, his teeth
are unacceptable. As an aide to the president replies,
in order to be eligible for enlistment, “an applicant
must have a minimum of eighteen natural teeth with at
least two opposing molars.” Mr. Zeldes does not qualify.
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Envelope from the White House with cancelled stamp reading
“Remember Pearl Harbor”
