Independence Day

Today marks the founding of our Country. Brigid comments on the sacrifice of many for us to be who we are as a Nation.

For me today was somewhat therapeutic. Remembering those that gave all. How sad that the politically correct term for today is now "the 4th of July" instead of what it is. A turn away from tyranny won with blood.

So I finished up on this:

This mark is the Imperial Japanese chrysanthemum. It was placed on this rifle to state that it was the personal property of the Emperor. Much like the Enfield that bore the mark of the Crown. 

It is interesting to note that this battle rifle had the mark of a person upon it, an allegiance to one man. This one does not.

The M1 Garand nomenclature bears no mark of a person, just a Nation. Simply put it says: "US Rifle".

My friends that gave me the Japanese battle rifle sent me an Email today: " I gave my Uncle a little heaven shout out this morning in honor of the 4th and his time served to this country". That is where it came from. The "mum" is not defaced, meaning that the rifle was not formally surrendered, some young man brought it back from horrible places and the worst of times. 

Let us never forget.  

More commentary on the M1 here.