The XXXIII 2024 Olympiad’s opening ceremonies occurred July 26, 2024, but 100 years ago a Colletonian participated in the 1924 Olympics. He not only participated, but he won gold.
Henry Marvin Bailey was born in Colleton County. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corp in 1910. Upon his enlistment, he instantly installed himself as one of the top marksmen. Bailey received the U.S. Marine Corps Distinguished Pistol Shooting award and also earned the Distinguished Marksman award during his service. Bailey took the gold in the 25 meter rapid fire pistol competition; however, his achievement was not without a bit of drama during the competition. According to olympics.com, “Bailey won his gold with a display of steel nerves. He tied for first place with Wilhelm Carlberg of Sweden and neither missed a shot through six shoot-off strings. On his seventh string, Bailey’s pistol jammed but with an instant reaction he reached for the slide with his free hand, cleared the jam, and fired off five perfect shots – all within eight seconds. This performance so unnerved Carlberg that the Swede missed two shots and Bailey had his gold medal.”
You can see Bailey’s gold medal and see his other accomplishments at the Colleton Museum and Farmers market located at 506 E. Washington Street.
