“...the Garand was a fair-weather rifle, excellent on the practice range but far from good enough for the Marines when the going got tough.***
I remember reading of bolt action armed Marines in the Pacific, following new replacements armed with a Garand. When asked why the vet marine was following the new replacement so close, the Marine stated that if the replacement was hit, HE was going to grab the Garand and toss the bolt action!
Dad carried one across Europe.
My sister’s 1st husband had to turn in his M14 for a M16. After too many jams, he re-requisitioned himself his orig M14.
My Dad carried a BAR. He was a big guy.