Human Statue of Liberty: 18,000 Officers and Men at Camp Dodge, Des Moines, IA. Commanded by Col. Wm. Newman and Directed by Col. Rush S. Wells.
During World War I, Arthur S. Mole and John D. Thomas created remarkable images using thousands of uniformed sailors and soldiers. One famous photograph, taken in July 1918 at Camp Dodge, featured 18,000 soldiers posing as the Statue of Liberty to promote war bonds. Despite the extreme heat causing many soldiers to faint, the detailed and intricate formation showcased their patriotic dedication.