F.D.R. Shooting a 1903 with Hubbel Receiver Sight

[MoMallard]

I came across this Library of Congress photo titled "Marine Corps Rifle Range, F.D. Roosevelt and F.K. Lane firing", dated 1917. FDR is second civilian on the firing line. I noted that he was handling a rather odd looking 1903 and traced it one wearing the Hubbel receiver sight. Quite interesting, and just thought I'd share.

[Allen Humphrey]

thanks for showing the picture. I wonder how his score was? Love to see a close-up picture of the sight.

[Marine A5 Sniper]

Check out his pants.

jt

[Allen Humphrey]

The guy in the foreground seems to be bustin' out of his pants. FDR looks like he has "high water" pants which seems appropriate for the amount of standing water in the background Both guys have gotten mud all over their nice white dress shoes. No fancy shooting mats even for VIPs.

[MoMallard]

Here's some closer shots. I went with Hubbel sight vs. Nash due to the perceived "dished" adjustment on the side, but it might also be a Nash receiver sight.

[George in NH]

Could that be Sea Girt? Benet Mercier in the foreground. Wonder what year that pic was taken?
Thanks for posting! George in NH

[Calif Steve]

This was 1917? Not sure, but believe he was Ass't Sec. of the US Navy when photo taken. He contracted polio in 1921. However, many physicians today suggest he suffered from Gullian-Barre syndrome. Also believe he was a longtime NRA member.

[Bolo Badge]

FDR was appointed Assistant Secretary of the Navy by President Wilson in 1913. The Marine NCO in the foreground has creased his campaign hat with the "Fore and Aft" crease. This was regulation prior to the P1912 Campaign Hat being adopted. The P1912 hat required the "Montana Peak" type crease. The Marine assisting FDR is wearing a P1912 campaign hat. In 1912, as with today's services, when a uniform item was superceded there was a change-over period where both old and new items are authorized for wear. I believe the change-over period today is 2-3 years. Presuming this was the case when this photo was taken I would date it no later than 1915.

[Calif Steve]

Bolo Badge: nice observation. Two Marines in the photo appear to have their hats in different styles. Correct? I'll bet this was indeed during the change-over period. Anybody wearing any earplugs? People must had suffered serious hearing loss in thet era.