Paging @cplnorton    He's one of the go to guys on USMC '03 identification.

Ah, that makes sense.   On a complete functional unloaded Garand with all GI type parts (no Holbrook device etc.) when you pull the operating rod handle all the way to the rear the operating rod will lock to the rear when the hook on the operating catch engages the hooks on the saddle of the operating rod.   To close the bolt on an empty chamber, one puts a bit of pressure on the op rod handle to the rear while depressing the follower until the op rod catch disengages from the op rod at which point you need to get your thumb or fingers out of the action and either ease the op rod handle forward or just let the bolt snap forward under spring pressure.   To close the bolt by loading the rifle, while again holding pressure on the op rod handle towards the rear, upon insertion of a loaded enbloc, if rifle is properly timed, once the clip latch locks the enbloc into the rifle and pressure is released on the op rod handle, the action should close and chamber a round. Many Garands have timing that is a bit off and the op rod handle may require a bit of a bump at this point to proceed forward.    Note, the Garand can be set up like a GIANT mousetrap and mash your digits good. Rather than pulling the op rod handle all the way back and engaging the op rod catch, if you don't pull the op rod handle quite far enough to the rear it is possible for the bolt to catch on the follower assembly and then if you bump the follower with your finger or thumb, you will likely get your digit mashed and bleed all over after the bolt slams it in the action and tries to chamber it.

Easy502, I used up my "likes" for the day, but that is an awesome item!   Tom

Here is a period pic.   Tom

Easy502, That has to be one of the ground troops' ID markers. A rare item to be sure, and it looks to be in great shape. Very nice! I've also seen footage of these in use in the Marianas. Here is another one on the forum https://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/288983-wwii-7th-infantry-division-kwajalein-identification-panel/   (I just noticed you already posted at the other link.) Tom

Interested in these medals. Pls send me a PM at your earliest to discuss.  Appreciate it.

Great work! The helmet markings are spot-on   Tom

I appreciate you circling back around to provide more of your expertise. I continue to be educated. Thanks.

Hello Arisaka: I congratulate you on a nice catch. Your new Victory will indeed letter as having shipped to the OSS at Rosslyn VA. I am happy to hear that my research allowed you to recognize this one for what it is. Knowledge is power, as they say. It took me many, many years of work, maintaining the Victory Database, sorting through serials, fuzzy photos, hundreds of factory letters, and countless eyeball examinations to discover the keys to the .38 Special OSS guns.  Regards, Charlie

If it works it works!