WW2 Colt 1911A1 Pistol | Veteran War Story

Published on May 28, 2020
Duration: 27:03

This video provides an in-depth look at a World War 2 Colt 1911A1 pistol, focusing on its history and connection to Captain Paul Tidwell, a US Army Air Corps pilot. The presenter details Tidwell's military career, from basic training to his involvement in major campaigns like Operation Market Garden and the Battle of the Bulge, highlighting his service flying C-47 transport planes. The video also offers a technical comparison of Colt 1911A1 variants, specifically contrasting Colt production with Union Switch & Signal models, and discusses their finishes, markings, and historical context within the Air Corps.

Quick Summary

This World War 2 Colt 1911A1 pistol was carried by Captain Paul Tidwell, a US Army Air Corps pilot who flew C-47s in major campaigns like Operation Market Garden and the Battle of the Bulge. The video details his service, compares 1911 variants, and showcases his personal effects, including aviator glasses and a dog tag.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction: A US Weapon
  2. 00:39The Story Behind the Gun: Paul Tidwell
  3. 02:36Paul Tidwell's Early Life & Enlistment
  4. 03:03Camp Croft Artifacts: New Testament
  5. 04:48Flight Training: Fort Benning & Malden, MO
  6. 05:48Graduation Book: Class of 1944
  7. 06:38Paul Tidwell's Track Team Record
  8. 07:18African American Soldiers in Air Corps
  9. 08:05Other Training Books & 'Computer'
  10. 09:21Service in England & C-47 Missions
  11. 10:38Operation Market Garden
  12. 12:04The Battle of the Bulge
  13. 13:52Crossing the Rhine & End of War
  14. 14:14Evacuating Concentration Camp Victims
  15. 15:43End of War & Transporting Personnel
  16. 16:17Post-War Career: CPA & NASA
  17. 16:49Personal Effects: Dog Tag, Sewing Kit, Glasses
  18. 18:08Son's Reflection on Selling Heirlooms
  19. 18:50The Gun: Colt 1911A1 Details
  20. 19:58Identifying Air Corps Issued Pistols
  21. 20:29Union Switch & Signal vs. Colt 1911A1
  22. 21:24Finish & Markings Comparison
  23. 22:29Subtle Differences: Grips & Barrels
  24. 23:05Mainspring Housing & Magazine Markings
  25. 24:07Arsenal Reworks & Value Impact
  26. 25:24Originality & Family Provenance
  27. 25:40Inspector Proof Marks (RCD, GHD)
  28. 26:27Conclusion: Paul Tidwell's Life & Legacy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Colt 1911A1 in the video?

The Colt 1911A1 featured belonged to Captain Paul Tidwell, a US Army Air Corps pilot during World War 2. It represents a tangible link to his wartime experiences, including flying C-47s in major campaigns and humanitarian missions.

How did Captain Paul Tidwell serve during World War 2?

Captain Paul Tidwell served as a pilot in the US Army Air Corps, flying C-47 Skytrain transport aircraft. He participated in critical operations like Operation Market Garden and the Battle of the Bulge, and was involved in evacuating wounded and concentration camp victims.

What are the key differences between Colt and Union Switch & Signal 1911A1 pistols?

Colt 1911A1s typically have a 'cross cannon' cartouche, while Union Switch & Signal models do not. Colt barrels are marked 'Colt Auto .45', whereas Union Switch & Signal often feature 'HS' barrels. Union Switch & Signal models are rarer and often associated with the Air Corps.

What personal items of Captain Paul Tidwell were shown?

The video displayed Captain Tidwell's original dog tag, his Army Air Corps sewing kit, and a pair of World War 2 aviator glasses. These items, along with his New Testament, underscore his meticulous care for his belongings.

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