The Selective Training and Service Act of 1940 marked a significant moment in U.S. history, being the first conscription enacted. Passed by Congress on September 14, 1940, and signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt two days later, this act mandated that men aged 21 to 35 register with local draft boards. These boards utilized a lottery system to select men for military service, with a term of 12 months if drafted.

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John McNamara found himself in the "1-A" classification and was chosen in the first draft on January 2, 1941. As World War II unfolded and the U.S. entered the conflict, mandatory registration expanded to include all men aged 18 to 65.

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On January 22, 1941, John reported to the Dixie Terminal Building in Cincinnati. From there, he proceeded to Fort Thomas in Newport, KY, situated just across the Ohio River from his Cincinnati home. At Fort Thomas, he underwent a three-day process involving medical examinations, inoculations, fingerprinting, and delousing. Historically, Fort Thomas played a crucial role as a depot, induction center, and military hospital during this period.

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