Grosvenor B. Clarkson served as Secretary of the Executive Office of the Council and Advisory Commission of President Woodrow Wilson's Council of National Defense during World War I. He was later named its Director. Wilson appointed the Council, made up of six of his Cabinet ministers, along with a civilian Advisory Commission to work with it, made up of civilian leaders. ACS Founder Franklin H. Martin, MD, FACS, served as Chairman of the Advisory Commission's General Medical Board and Medical Section of the Advisory Commission and in this capacity worked closely with men such as Clarkson. Clarkson's photo is one of a collection of many WWI era notables whose photograph adorned the walls of Dr. Martin's office at the American College of Surgeons.
ACS Archives Highlights is a series showcasing the vibrant history of the American College of Surgeons, its members, and the history of surgery. For further information on our featured highlights, search the Archives Catalog or contact the ACS Archivist.