The correct way to load the enbloc clip into the M1 Garand is using your thumb to press down on the clip against the follower. To avoid getting the 'Garand Thumb' you place the blade of your hand (the part of your hand you use to give karate chops) against the op rod. This way, your hand is holding back the op rod, and you can't slam the bolt shut on your thumb.
After you put the clip in, and it clicks into place, you then rotate your thumb out of the way, and let go of the op rod. If it doesn't go forward, you can help it with the heel of your hand, but your thumb should be already out of the way.
Anyway, everyone should go sign the petition anyway. The M14s in storage, are ours. We, the taxpayers, paid for that stuff. Why should we pay yet again to get them destroyed. Just sell it to the citizen-soldiers. ;)
I've been taught the "thumb drill" -- my husband trained on the Garand before the M-14. We got one from the CMP also - nice one with matched parts, still in the Cosmoline. Daddy has a Garand that he brought back, along with some Iron Crosses, helmets, etc. etc. He also brought back a number of Lugers (his company took the surrender of the German XLV Army Gruppe) but he sold them all before I was born. Ah, well!