Obama prom photos from 1979 resurface

Before his hair turned gray, and long before he was ever photographed shooting hoops at the White House, the future President Barack Obama went to prom.

Like most American high schoolers, 17-year-old Barry's prom photos show him wearing an outfit and a hairstyle he would probably come to regret, his arms slung casually around his date and a friend.

The photo was given to Time by Kelli Allman (nee McCormack), who appears in the picture with her date, Obama's good friend Greg Orme, and Obama's date Megan Hughes.

"They were like brothers," Allman said, describing Obama's relationship with Orme. The two young couples sipped champagne before heading off to the dance and afterparty.

"It was a really fun, happy time," Allman said. "We were all cracking up, and everyone was smiling."

"It was pretty typical from there out as far as what happens at prom: the dinner and the dancing and photos."

Allman also handed over a photo of Obama's signature in her yearbook, complete with the beginnings of the distinct "Obama" signature now so familiar.

Kelli Allman's Oahuan 1979 yearbook, and the note written to Allman by "Barry" Obama.

Kelli,

It has been so nice getting to know you this year. You are extremely sweet and foxy, I don't know why Greg would want to spend any time with me at all! You really deserve better than clowns like us; you you even laugh at my jokes! I hope we can keep in touch this summer, even though Greg will be gone.

Call me up, and I'll buy you lunch sometimes. [Illegible phone number] Anyway, good luck in everything you do, and stay happy.

Your friend,

Love, Barry Obama

From left to right: Greg Orme, Kelli Allman (nee McCormack), Barack Obama and Megan Hughes. (Kelli Allman/Time/Contact Press Images)