In WWI, British infantry soldiers were referred to as Tommys because of the name used as example in the pay book- Tommy Atkins. British troops during the Great War were famous for their bravery, and for always keeping their heads when the action got hot. That’s why this Tommy is a fitting mascot for this 1920 Locomobile. The reason a British soldier was the choice, well since this was just after WW1, and a lot of mutual respect was formed between Brish and American forces, I think that explains it. No one has such respect for allies anymore, unless maybe it is the respect between military guys in a unit. Crewmembers in a aricraft, submarine, tank unit etc have this kind of utter respect.
in 1908, George Robertson (wearing #16) took the win in this car, ahead of fellow Locomobile pilot Joe Florida in third, becoming the first United States-built car to win in international competition. This would be the high water mark for Locomobile racing, and they soon faded from the scene, though Orin Davis did score a win in the Los Angeles-Phoenix rally in 1913.. On the strength of this, Locomobile soon became known for well built and speedy luxury cars.