During the French invasion of Russia, the sick French lieutenant Pierre Drouvet stayed in the manor.[2] He was nursed by Morta, the landowner's only daughter; and they fell in love.[2] Pierre Drouvet and Morta married; and together with the Grande Armée, having experienced various adventures on the way, went to the French region of Burgundy.[2] After two decades, following her parents' request, Morta and Drouvet returned to Pavirvytis.[2] Antanas Druvė was this couple's grandson.[2]
During World War I, in the autumn of 1915, Druvė led a cavalry unit where he was distinguished for his fighting against the Imperial German Army near the Daugava River.[1] According to the vle.lt, it was the 43rd Cavalry Regiment.[1] However, according to the ria1914.info, Druvė served only in the 32nd Dragoon, later renamed to the 11th Uhlan Regiment.[3] On 28 December 1915, he was promoted to colonel of the 11th Uhlan Regiment.[3]
From 14 July 1916, Druvė served in the reserve of ranks at the headquarters of the Kiev Military District.[3] He also served as an officer in the Northwestern Front's Headquarters section for operations.[1]