Cantius refers to the middle name ofJohn C. Garand, creator of the iconic M1 Garand rifle.

The M1 Garandproved itself in battle throughout World War II, the Korean War and theCold War.

And the original M14 would continue to serve in specialized military roles,even through to today.

Award Gun Jacket

Author Tom Laemlein received the Cantius Award as the top contributor for the year. He was awarded a certificate, a Model 2020 Rimfire Classic rifle and a burgundy “The Armory Life” jacket. Image: Carson McDaniel

Additionally, historical photos from his collection are used by publishers around the world.

During the past year, Laemleins contributions toThe Armory Lifehave been significant.

Laemleins passion for history fuels his ability to create engaging content that appeals toThe Armory Lifereaders.

Springfield Armory Model 2020 Rimfire Classic awarded to Tom Laemlein

Laemlein was awarded a Model 2020 Rimfire Classic rifle with a beautiful wooden stock. Image: Jeremy Tremp

Coming as no surprise to me, he was extremely gracious and appreciative about winning the award.

First, thank you very much, he said to me.

That is very kind of you, and I am greatly honored.

M1 Carbine

Laemlein’s article on M1 Carbine battlefield modifications showcased the ingenuity of G.I.s in the field. This field-made bayonet was created by Marines on Bougainville during the Solomon Islands campaign. Image: NARA

I love writing forThe Armory Lifeand am very proud to be a part of the sites success.

Clearly, the readers respond to it.

Im a lucky guy, he continued.

Operation Gunn

“Operation Gunn” told the story of an American pilot downed in WWII that escaped to safety in a commandeered Messerschmitt with a hand-painted flag and stars intended to identify it as “friendly” to Allied aircraft. Courtesy of Paul Johnson.

It helps keep history alive as well as our collective gun rights in focus.

That is important for the generations to come.

As part of receiving theCantius Award, Laemlein was awarded aModel 2020 Rimfire Classic riflein .22 LR.

B-17 Gunners

Another of his articles showcased the dangers of the skies above occupied Europe in WWII for our bomber crews. It also laid out the risks their German opponents faced trying to take them down. Image: NARA

The Model 2020 rifle is a beautiful piece of Springfield Armory craftsmanship.

I can think of nothing more honorable than that.

Conclusion

Our congratulations to Tom Laemlein for his selection as this yearsCantius Awardwinner.

Tom Laemlein with Cantius Award

Laemlien is shown here with his jacket and award certificate at the Military History Society of Rochester Museum, which he describes as a wonderful local military museum and one of his favorite hangouts.

We look forward to seeing more of his work in future.

D-Day troops ashore

In his piece on the D-Day landings in Normandy, Laemlein helped readers understand exactly what all those brave men faced on those deadly shores in their fight to liberate Europe. Image: NARA

Facebook Share

Twitter Share

Pinterest Share

Article image

Article image