WW2 Vet's Carbine Story

My father is a WW2 vet and served as a forward observer in the 47 Regiment of the 9th Infantry Division. He saw extensive combat in Africa, Sicily, Normandy and Germany.

He was originally issued a an M1903 Springfield, which he still considers to be outstanding, but traded it for an M1 carbine as soon as they became available, as it was better suited to his needs.

Sometime during the Sicily campaign my Dad received his first carbine. A few days later his unit was reviewed by General George Patton. Patton walked down the line of men, stopping occasionally to ask a question or make a comment. Patton stopped in front of my Dad and began questioning him about his carbine.

“Soldier, I see you are carrying an M1 carbine. How do you like it?”

“Sir, it’s a fine weapon”, my Dad replied.

“Have you had a chance to shoot it?”

“Yes sir, I have.”

"Did you kill one of them German sons a bitches?"

"No sir, I shot a cow."

Patton glared at him, spun on his heals and then continued down the line.

Seems that my Dad and a couple of buddies had earlier “procured” a cow from a local farmer and they decided to provide fresh meat for his combat team. Someone had to dispatch the cow.

I have a picture of him in Normandy, holding his M1 carbine.

Great story.....Frank

Post the picture of you dad.

Thanks

Treasure those stories and gather as many more as you can. That generation is a one of a kind, special type of individual. Thanks for sharing his memories with us.