Robert Cadabra Posted January 3 #101 Posted January 3 This Colt M1903 (refinished) was issued to Capt. Owen Blankenship, OSS Communications, Detachment 202, Chungking, China, 1945. After the war, Blankenship continued service within the government intelligence/covert community.
Robert Cadabra Posted January 3 #102 Posted January 3 This Colt M1903 was issued to T/5 Carl L. Bock, OSS Security Branch, Kunming, China, 1945. Bock was a Treasury Agent before the war. He was transferred to the OSS as a security officer, and did security checks and backgrounds on potential agents. He continued in government service after the war in various security roles for CIA and the Department of State. He was a principal witness during the trial of Otto Otepka.
Robert Cadabra Posted January 3 #103 Posted January 3 Here is another example of an OSS firearm with direct issue provenance to an individual. This Colt M1903 was issued to T/3 Andrew B. Polanski, OSS S&T (Schools and Training) Division, Detachment 204, Kai Yuan, China, 1945.
Robert Cadabra Posted January 3 #104 Posted January 3 Although technically an OSS weapon, this Colt saw its documented service with CIA during the Cold War. Issued to "civilian" George Winterhalter, Central Intelligence Agency, Covert Maritime Operations, North Sea Region, 1953. Winterhalter, born in Russia, was an officer in the Finnish Navy and later a merchant marine captain prior to WW2. He was recruited by CIA in 1951 and subsequently issued this OSS Colt M1903. Note that there were no carry restrictions on his gun permit which listed him as a "civilian" in 1953 (See CCW). He went on to serve within CIA until 1961, followed by years of service in other government agencies.
INIMICUS Posted January 3 #105 Posted January 3 This entire thread from 2017 > till today is amazing. Wonderful, historic eye candy with much knowledge and to-and-fro added. Robert's contributions are for many especially especially worthy in terms of provenance. Yes, Rosslyn's Fowler Bldg. was super busy in WW2. Thanks to all, & best wishes for '26!
skir Posted January 5 #106 Posted January 5 Along with the great pistols shown, here is what the issue ammunition ( at least for OSS/CIA) was packaged and issued. Not an expert on Winchester ammo as have been told that this is/is not WWII period ammo. Anyway it was still in Agency inventory in 2008 when it was desposed of.
Charlie Flick Posted January 8 #107 Posted January 8 Fabulous stuff, Bob. I salute you and your research skills. Thanks for the post. Regards, Charlie
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