Coffeyville Community College Columbus Campus Welding Instructor Todd Madl has completed a unique project with the help of World War II Veteran, Jim Cook.  Cook and Madl have worked together to build a replica of a M1-A1 Bazooka rocket launcher and M1 rocket that Cook used during the war.

“The Bazooka was fun and interesting to work on,” stated CCC student and Veteran Brandon Lewis, who worked on the project. “We tried to get it to look as authentic as possible”.

After Madl and Lewis were happy with the construction, the bazooka went to Construction Technology Instructor Kevin Hunt and CCC student Jim Smith, who designed the handles and shoulder rest from walnut. Collision Repair student Zach Freeman, under the supervision of Instructor Hal Daniels was charged with painting the replica.

“This was a good opportunity to use our creativity in fabrication skills to produce something tangible that can be used to educate people about World War II,” commented Madl. “Jim is planning to use the bazooka in World War II displays”.

Cook served in World War II with the 2nd Indian Head Division--38th Combat Infantry Regiment, and was honored with a variety of medals and ribbons.  US Army veteran, Brandon Lewis served two deployments to Iraq, 2007-2008, 2009-2010, with the 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, 2nd Battalion, and 12th Field Artillery.