When the United States entered WWI in April, 1917, a total of 65 members of the university, students and faculty, entered into the service for First Officers Training Camp.[38] Almost half of the enrolled student population was involved in The Great War in some capacity, as the total enrollment was 186, down from 301 students.[38] In total, nine men from the university sacrificed their lives.[38] Two men received the Distinguished Service Cross from General John J. Pershing.[39] One man, H. F. Allison, is credited with the first shot fired in France from a member of the American Expeditionary Force.[39]