This is a .30 caliber M1 Carbine manufactured during World War II. One of six million made, it represents the best of America during the worst of times. This thread is a story of sacrifice in times of global crisis, told in one object. #MemorialDay #COVID

Throughout the war, major American manufactures shifted production from diverse industries to the “beans, bullets, and bandaids” critical to defeating fascism.

The core components of this particular weapon (receiver and barrel) were made by Winchester, but after seeing service the gun was returned to be “arsenal refurbished”. Worn out parts were replaced by components from a variety of companies, and every...

single piece is stamped with a mark identifying the producer. This gun is a slice of history, it records the sacrifice, cooperation, and leadership required to bring a nation through a global crisis.
The stock is stamped with a .U., indicating this gun was refurbished

by the Underwood Typewriter Company. The stock, rear sight, and bayonet lug were made by the Inland division of General Motors. The upper hand guard by the Rockola jukebox company, the trigger housing by IBM. The hammer was made by Standard Products, the bolt

by Auto Ordinance (maker of the Tommy Gun), and the slide and magazine release by the National Postal Meter company.
We call them The Greatest Generation because they crossed the Pacific, North Africa, and Italy, parachuted into the hedgerows of France with this gun and millions

like it to defeat a vile enemy. At home they bought war bonds, rationed food and gasoline, and worked in farm fields and factories to support our soldiers overseas, many of whom sacrificed themselves to protect the lives and freedom of millions.

The current global crisis is another opportunity to show the best of America. Honor the sacrifices of those who came before us, weed our own garden. It is time to beat back the bigots, stamp out voter suppression, secure our elections from authoritarians and foreign

interests, rescue our healthcare system. The absolute least you can do is wear a mask when out in public, so that the freedoms and future for all people they fought and died for do not slip away in vain.
#memorialday #WearAMask #COVID19