(quote) I think the real problem came when they started to shy away from specialized infantry weapons (I.E. Issuing m1c, tommy gun, BAR, Garand, and then LMG and MMG's) in favor of issuing everyone an all around average gun that could perform averagely in all tasks. (unquote)
In addition to the average troop having more rounds and higher rate of fire, within many units isn't there still a variety of weapons and calibers, e.g., 5.56mm, 7.62mm, and 50-cal.?