Yes he did a lot for his country. But even while serving he was dogged. So the IRS dogging him afterward was just a continuation of life for the Joe Louis' of America.

On one occasion during his service for troops during the war, Joe Louis backed down meekly from an argument while Ray Robinson went off on their superiors who refused to let African-Americans watch their fight exhibitions

Finally on another occasion, a military policeman (MP) told Louis & Ray to move their seats to a bench in the rear of an Alabama Army camp bus depot. "We ain't moving," said Louis.

No way should Joe had been forced to come out of retirement to fight Rocky Marciano. What other reason would Rocky have cried in Joe's dressing room afterward, knowing he didn't beat Joe Louis the champ, he beat Joe Louis the man in need of IRS money.