This Eddystone Model 1917 rifle features a presentation inscription on the floor plate that reads "1361850" and "CHRISTMAS 1945/TO LT. COL. FRANK J. ATWOOD/FROM YOUR FRIENDS AND ADMIRERS/AT SPRINGFIELD ARMORY. GOD SPEED." in four lines. Fitted in a smooth walnut pistol grip stock with "E" marked at the nose, finger grooves, and a smooth trapdoor buttplate. "E/(flaming bomb)/12-18" marked barrel with blade front and adjustable ladder and peep rear sights, standard receiver ring markings, double eagle head proofs on top of the left receiver rail, and a single flaming bomb proof on the left. Flaming bomb, "W" and "N.S." markings on the nickel steel bolt. Includes a Remington M1917 bayonet dated "1917" and an olive drab green leather scabbard with metal ends. A World War I veteran, Lieutenant Colonel Frank J. Atwood was the U.S. Army Executive Officer assigned to the Rochester Ordnance District between mid 1942 through early 1946, and had sole responsibility for inspecting and accepting or rejecting all war material that was produced or manufactured under Government contract in this district. During this time frame in the Rochester district, both the Remington-Rand and Ithaca factories fell under his control. Consequently, if you look at any M1911A1 pistols manufactured by either of those companies or the majority of Remington Model 03-A3 rifles manufactured during World War II, his initials "F.J.A." are typically stamped on them. This was an extremely important and demanding position, and Frank J. Atwood's work was of the highest standard, comparable to the likes of Springfield Armory's previous Master Armorer Erskine S. Allin; so much that Springfield Armory employees took the time to pull this World War I production rifle out of backroom storage to inscribe and finish for presentation to him in December 1945 as a Christmas present, retirement gift and strong token of appreciation for his efforts. This rifle includes an original handwritten work order document dated November 1945 that mentions this rifle by serial number and the work performed on it for presentation.

Very fine, retains 98% arsenal refurbished parkerized finish, with very light cycling wear on the bolt, and a crisp presentation inscription. Stock is also very fine as arsenal refinished for presentation, with a few light handling marks. Mechanically excellent. Included bayonet and scabbard are fine. This Eddystone Model 1917 rifle is a truly historic item presented to an important figure, Lt. Col. Frank J. Atwood, and the guy whose name is on plenty of World War II Remington-Rand and Ithaca M1911A1 pistols as well as Remington Model 03-A3 rifles. This rifle is worthy of a prominent place in any U.S. military firearms collection!