World War I
He accepted an appointment during World War I as Special Deputy Police Commissioner in New York City, greeting distinguished guests from around the world and helping organize the victory parade for General John J. Pershing and the returning doughboys. He purchased more World War I bonds than anyone else in the United States, and generously allowed the use of his residences for the war effort, "virtually putting his enormous wealth at the disposal of the United States." After the war Wanamaker acted as something of an official greeter for the City of New York, often lending his Landaulette Rolls-Royce for ticker-tape parades.
After the war, he financed the rebuilding of a school in Sarcus, France. A town fountain was dedicated in his memory.
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Or where the gorgeous East with richest hand
Show’rs on her kings barbaric pearl and gold,
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His proud imaginations”
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