George Hobbs was born in Flushing, New York on October 22, 1885 and enlisted into I Co. in 1912. He was a veteran of service in the Philippines and the Punitive Expedition to Mexico in 1916.

On April 17, 1919, while he was incarcerated at Leavenworth, Hobbs wrote to James W. Wadsworth, a Congressman from New York to ask for assistance in obtaining clemency:

Kind Sir: [illeg] to you concerning my case as I am [illeg]. I volunteered for the United States Army and was sent from the recruiting barracks to the Philippine Islands. Later I returned to the United States and then remained in service until the Houston Riots of which I am accused of being a participant. Sir, I am now confined in the US Petitionary by general court martial order but for a surety of fact, I am Innocent of the crimes and never took any part at all in the Houston trouble By a careful review of this case, you will note that there was an undue prejudice against us or we would not have been sentenced to these long sentences. If this had not been the case. Prior to the time of sentence I was a soldier of excellent character therefore it is my earnest desire to the restored to duty so that I may regain my good name which I had in the service and for my country and colors which I have always and will always loyally support. Very respectfully yours, George Hobbs Leavenworth Kansas.

A month earlier the Acting TJAG, Lt. Col. Samuel Ansell, received a personal letter appealing for clemency on Hobbs’ behalf from one Jennie Pools, a resident of Hobbs’ hometown. Pools wrote:

Dear Sir, I am now writing you in behalf if [sic] George Hobbs Jr. who is a war prisoner at Fort Leavenworth Kans. I have known George Hobbs Jr. for twenty three years. He has always been and honest truthful trustworthy young man from a boy and there is no man more respected than he. He wanted to do some time for his country and served 3 yrs in the army I believe before he me this teriable fate, but I trust you gentlemen of eminence & authority will have mercy and releace our black boys and return them home once more. Geo Hobbs Mother is sick from grief his father and mother have both been sick in bed sevral times for he is their only boy. Their hair has white they need and want to see their son. I trust this note will find favor in your eye, for we have what we
could for peace on earth and good will toward all men. [All spellings as they appear in the original.]