Celebrating the Spirit and Service of Elvis
When you remember Elvis Presley, you certainly remember his songs, the
way he lit up the big screen, and how he captured hearts with nothing more
than a smile. When you remember Elvis, you remember a superstar, a legendary
performer who changed music, and will rule forever as the undisputed “King
of Rock and Roll.” Elvis was a true original. From clothes and cars to
mansions and music, everything Elvis touched was transformed by his magnetic
personality and signature style. Throughout his career, Elvis sold over one
billion records, starred in 33 films, and became an icon of 20th century pop
culture. Elvis Presley, the entertainer, loomed larger than life, but to the
people who knew him the best, there was nobody more down to Earth. When it
came to his country, Elvis was proud to be an American.
An Exclusive Tribute to Elvis
America Remembers, working closely with Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc.,
is pleased to announce an exclusive new issue honoring this legendary
American icon with the Elvis Presley® .45 Tribute Pistol, a working Colt .45
ACP pistol. This exclusive Tribute honors the spirit and service of Elvis
Presley with one of the most iconic military firearms ever produced: the
legendary Colt .45 pistol. This handsomely decorated firearm is certainly
the kind of firearm Elvis himself would have loved. Craftsmen commissioned
specifically for this project by America Remembers decorate each working
pistol in 24-karat gold and gleaming nickel. The blued steel provides the
perfect canvas to capture the likeness and imagery of America’s most
unforgettable music legend. We are honored and delighted to receive
authorization from Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. to issue the Elvis
Presley® .45 Tribute Pistol.
The Most Famous Army Private in History
In 1956 and 1957, there was no bigger star on the planet. Radios and
jukeboxes across the country played his certified gold hits “Hound Dog,”
“Love Me Tender,” and “All Shook Up.” Audiences lined up to see Elvis light
up the big screen in Love Me Tender, Jailhouse Rock, and Loving You. On
December 20, 1957, Elvis received news that he had been drafted to serve in
the United States Army. When the day came for Elvis’ induction, his fans
were in a frenzy. Heartbroken and disappointed, they didn’t want their idol
taken away from them.
Many of us recall the day Elvis joined the U.S. Army. Elvis loved his
country and when he was drafted, he proudly reported to the office of the
Memphis Draft Board for induction into the U.S. Army. At the peak of his
career, Elvis Presley dropped everything to answer his country’s call to
serve. He wanted to serve like all the other soldiers, and even traded his
famous hairdo for an Army-issue buzz cut.
Elvis completed his basic training at Fort Hood, Texas. He arrived for
duty in West Germany on October 1, 1958. Elvis served overseas for 18
months. Enthusiastic German fans welcomed him into their country. After
being promoted to sergeant in January of 1960, Elvis returned to the United
States and was honorably discharged from active duty on March 5. As a member
of the U.S. Army, Elvis earned the respect and admiration of the nation. He
silenced his critics and bonded with his fellow soldiers. Elvis was a
hard-working soldier who faithfully served his country. In the Army, he
perfected a no-nonsense work ethic that would carry him through his music
career.
A Classic American Military Sidearm
Elvis’ army days helped develop his lifelong admiration of firearms. One
of Elvis’ favorite weapons was the Colt .45 pistol. He admired this model so
much that he selected a special Colt World War II commemorative pistol to
present to President Richard M. Nixon when they met in the Oval Office on
December 21, 1970.
Designated by the War Department in 1911 as the official sidearm of the
United States military, the Model 1911 .45 caliber pistol was utterly
reliable and virtually indestructible. The .45 pistol was an essential
element in America’s many military campaigns during the 20th century and it
was always a favorite among military personnel. Elvis served in the Armored
Division, and the Colt .45 pistol was the sidearm carried by the tankers.
The left side features a trio of portraits including two of Elvis from
his days with the Armored Division and a classic portrait of Elvis, the
entertainer, an image certain to bring back cherished memories of this
legendary singer. Featured in bold letters is “Elvis Presley,” a name that
thrilled audiences whenever it appeared on posters, and billboards around
the world.
For this Elvis Presley®.45 Tribute Pistol, we’ve chosen the Colt®
Government Model® .45 ACP pistol which is crafted in blued steel and
decorated with 24-karat gold and gleaming nickel. Magnificent custom artwork
is complemented by the faux ivory grips, emblazoned with the “TCB” logo.
On the right side, you'll find detailed portraits of Elvis. Two portraits
feature the dashing young Elvis in his Army uniform. There is also an image
of Elvis singing and playing his guitar. Displayed prominently across a
banner is an authentic recreation of Elvis Presley’s distinctive signature,
a legendary autograph coveted by his legions of adoring fans. Elvis was not
only an unforgettable performer; he was a patriotic American who answered
the call to duty when he was drafted by the U.S. Army.
As a final touch, the grip screws, slide stop, hammer, safety lock, magazine
catch, and barrel bushing are all hand-polished and decorated in 24-karat
gold, adding elegance to the overall design. You'll also find the “TCB” logo
on both sides of the slide. Together with a lightning bolt, this logo
translates to “Taking Care of Business in a Flash,” an idea that
encapsulates both the charisma and character of this magnetic entertainer.
TCB was an idea and credo that Elvis adopted and shared with his closest
friends.
Display Case Available
An optional, luxuriously lined, custom-built wooden display case with
locking glass lid is available for purchase to protect your Tribute.
Don’t Miss This Opportunity
Order now to be sure that you will be one of the 500 proud owners of this
handsome Tribute firearm. Each Tribute is individually numbered from
001 to 500 and comes with a matching numbered Certificate of Authenticity.
In addition, the Elvis Presley®.45 Tribute Pistol comes with a risk-free
guarantee. If for any reason it fails to give complete satisfaction,
it may be returned in original, unfired condition within 30 days for a
complete and courteous refund.
There are few people in history who can truly be considered legends, but
in the case of Elvis Presley, the label rings true. He was a true American
original. If you are an Elvis fan and appreciate fine-crafted commemorative
firearms, the Elvis Presley®.45 Tribute Pistol is sure to take a position of
honor in your personal collection, but please don't hesitate in making your
decision.
