GI Joes | Real American Heroes

GI JOEs: Joseph Smith & Joseph F. Smith

Two Josephs. Two generations. One legendary military legacy.

The GI JOEs design from Weak Things pays tribute to Joseph Smith and Joseph F. Smith, two Latter-day Saint leaders whose lives were connected to the Nauvoo Legion, one of the most fascinating militia organizations in early Latter-day Saint history.

Joseph Smith became lieutenant general of the Nauvoo Legion when the militia was officially organized in February 1841. The Legion was an independent unit of the Illinois state militia, authorized by Nauvoo's city charter to help protect the community and maintain the law. At its height, it numbered roughly 2,000–3,000 men, organized into cavalry, infantry, and artillery units.

Joseph took his military responsibilities seriously. During the crisis of June 1844, he called the Legion to muster and declared martial law in Nauvoo. On parade, the Prophet wasn't just the guy giving the speech—he was the commanding general.

Years later, Joseph F. Smith, nephew of Joseph Smith and the future sixth President of the Church, carried that military tradition into a new generation. After returning from his mission to Hawaii in 1858, the young Smith joined the Utah Territorial Nauvoo Legion during the Utah War. He served on military duty, including patrols along the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains, and later served as chaplain of Heber C. Kimball's regiment with the rank of captain.

The Nauvoo Legion itself continued after the Saints left Illinois, becoming the territorial militia of Utah and eventually forming part of the heritage claimed by the modern Utah National Guard.

So yes—GI JOEs is historically appropriate. These aren't fictional Josephs. They're two real Latter-day Saint leaders who actually wore the uniform, carried weapons, and served in the militia.

Two Josephs. One Legion. One seriously fun piece of LDS history.

Product: Next Level Apparel N6210 Men's CVC Crew

Next Level Apparel N6210 Men's CVC Crew

• 4.3 oz.,

• 60% combed ringspun cotton/ 40% polyester jersey

• Colors have a slightly heathered look

• Pre-shrunk for reduced shrinkage

• CVC blend

• 1x1 baby rib-knit set-in collar

• Shoulder to shoulder taping

• Tear-away label

• Side seamed