It was somewhat common at one time for service men to purchase their own handguns. Occasionally even receiving one as a gift. Especially prior to being shipped out.
If the retailer was close to a base. Maybe....
Maybe not...
Im not a collector. Just a reader. I recall a similar story about a mystery pistol. But I cant remember the details.
I once new a guy had USMC tattooed on his arm. Maybe not a stretch for one of their prestigious members to want it on their new Colt.
