Historic WWII Hero's Pistol Resurfaces in Denver
A historic pistol, once carried by World War II hero and Medal of Honor recipient Joe Foss, has resurfaced at a gun collectors show in Denver, Colorado. The Hi-Standard Model A handgun, later modified to a Model 'A-D', has a fascinating history that spans nearly eight decades.
In 2012, a young man approached the author at the Colorado Gun Collectors Show with the pistol in hand. The author, intrigued by the gun's history, acquired it and had it engraved by Tony Lee Frost in April 2013 in a loose Art Nouveau style. The pistol, manufactured in New Haven, Conn., in late 1940, was originally a Model 'A', but later had a heavier Model 'D' barrel installed, transforming it into a Model 'A-D'.
The pistol's most notable connection is to Joe Foss, a Marine Corps ace and South Dakota governor. Foss reportedly carried the pistol in a G.I. shoulder holster during his service in World War II, primarily in the Pacific Theater in the early 1940s. The author has letters and receipts documenting the work done on the pistol, including the addition of carved ivory stocks by Michael Prince in March 2020, featuring a palmswell to fit the author's large, long-fingered hands. Despite spending time in a holster, the pistol appeared to be in good condition, having been well taken care of over the years.
The Hi-Standard Model A-D pistol, with its rich history and connection to a true American hero, is a testament to the enduring legacy of those who served our country. Its preservation and restoration by the author ensure that this piece of history will continue to be appreciated and admired by gun enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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