Thompson. Filled with archival images, this volume examines the origins, design, development, and performance of the M1 Garand - the first semi-automatic rifle in general issue to any army and the weapon that Gen. George Patton called "the greatest implement of battle ever devised" - from its introduction as the standard U.S. service rifle in 1936 through its use in World War II and its retirement in 1965. 80 pages, B&W photographs throughout, 7¼"x 9¾", softcover.