The Army offered a post that would allow Elvis to tour U.S. Army bases around the world, in an effort to improve troop morale and bolster recruitment numbers. The Pentagon also offered him the chance to join Special Services, which would mean he would not have to undergo regular soldier training but would still be able to entertain the troops.

Elvis declined all these offers and enlisted as a regular soldier. He was initially scheduled for induction in January 1958, but received an extension to finish filming of the movie "King Creole."

He reported for duty on March 24, 1958. News reporters called it "Black Monday."



Despite the media descriptions, Elvis's recording career hardly missed a beat. During a two-week leave, he recorded five songs. And his record company, RCA, produced a steady stream of unreleased recordings during that time.

Altogether, Elvis strung together 10 Top-40 hits during his months in the service.