Vic the Vet
Published in 1947, Vic the Vet is a cartoon book about a veteran studying at Syracuse University under the GI Bill. The cartoons were the creation of Gabe Josephson, a veteran of the Battle of the Bulge and recipient of the Purple Heart. Attending the College of Fine Arts as an illustration major, Josephson worked for both the Daily Orange and Syracusan magazine. He was clearly well suited to record the trials and tribulations of veterans on campus, from the challenges of registration to the hardship of living in temporary housing. After graduation in 1950, Josephson pursued a successful career as a cartoonist, illustrator, and freelance artist.
Gabe Josephson, “What parking problem?” Vic the Vet, 1947. Gabe Josephson Collection, University Archives. Gift of Susan Watts.
Gabe Josephson, “…and then I said to the director of housing, ‘you can’t do this to me.'” Vic the Vet, 1947. Gabe Josephson Collection, University Archives. Gift of Susan Watts.
Gabe Josephson, “I understand they had to take him. He used to be in the K-9 corps.” Vic the Vet, 1947. Gabe Josephson Collection, University Archives. Gift of Susan Watts.
Gabe Josephson, “Able One to Red Dog. . . . what’s the base angle of an isosoles circle? . . . Over.” Vic the Vet, 1947. Gabe Josephson Collection, University Archives. Gift of Susan Watts.
Gabe Josephson, “Combat nothing — registration.” Vic the Vet, 1947. Gabe Josephson Collection, University Archives. Gift of Susan Watts.
Gabe Josephson, “How did you know I used to be an officer?” Vic the Vet, 1947.Gabe Josephson Collection, University Archives. Gift of Susan Watts.
Gabe Josephson, “He wants to know how much credit for three year’s as a latrine orderly?” Vic the Vet, 1947. Gabe Josephson Collection, University Archives. Gift of Susan Watts.
Gabe Josephson, “Whadya mean, term paper! . . . V.A. forms! – -” Vic the Vet, 1947. Gabe Josephson Collection, University Archives. Gift of Susan Watts.