While doing some research on a now deceased 6th Division Marine, I came across a fascinating memento from the Okinawa Invasion which this Marine, Robert G. Sproul, Wilmington, DE, had participated in. Among his souvenirs was a Japanese battle flag taken from a dead Japanese soldier during the battle. These battle flags, popular with many Japanes soldiers, were signed by family and friends with exhortations of good luck. The silk or cotton flags adorned with Japanese writings around the large red sun were worn around the soldier’s abdomen before going into battle. This particular flag has faded blood stains and what appear to be bullet holes. A poignant personal reminder of the Marine’s war in the Pacific during WWII.
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What would he expect? Marines are trained to shoot at round bullseye targets at 200 yds…..and in fear of upsetting our Drill Instructors, we “aim” to please. The 300 B-mod and 500 yd targets are reserved for those ISIS individuals dressed in all black garb. Coincidence? I think not…….
A number of similar flags have been turned over to Japanese consulates to be returned to family members in Japan. Years ago, I would not. Now, as the years have passed, I have mixed feelings. But, it’s not mine so I can just ramble down here.
Many veterans of WWII that obtained these battle from dead enemy soldiers and have tried, some successfully to return the flag to the family of the killed soldier. It is up to the person who found the item.
MY BROTHER WAS IN THE NAVY IN WW11, AND HAS A COUPLE OF THOSE FLAGS. HE GAVE THEM TO HIS SON….I WAS IN KOREA AND I SAW THE FLAGS WHEN HE CAME BACK HOME,.MAKES ONE THINK THAT THE ENEMY WERE NOT MUCH DIFFERENT THAN US…..
Thanks for the comments about the Battle Flag. The Japanese ‘Obon’ society assists in returning the battle flags to the surviving relatives of the deceased Japanese soldiers. Wonder if there is a similar organization that tries to return our dead Marine’s personal effects taken by Japanese soldiers during the War?