Sake cup kanji question

[GeorgeP]

Hey all,

I recently stumbled upon a set of (3) red lacquered wooden sake cups here in Japan and I am wondering about the units history behind this set. The interiors of the three cups have painted pictures of three different models of WW2 era Japanese aircraft, including one cup that has what looks like a Zero fighter plane. On the outside of the largest cup is kanji stating roughly: "South branch air squadron". Sorry no pictures. The cups are still within the depths of a local antique store. The dealer said something about the unit participating in campaigns around Sumatra. Does anyone have any information about this "South Branch" air unit? I would greatly appreciate any info. (This antique store has some great stuff by the way. Along with the cups, it has an NLF covered/ID numbered canteen for about $20!) Thanks!

George

[Nick Komiya]

Sorry, cannot help without the original Kaji. Probably it's not branch but the first character for China, which would be Southern China. Also need to know how squadron is written.

[Nick Komiya]

I no longer need the Kanji, I found info on an identical cup sold a year ago. You would probably find another inscription saying it was for commemorating their mobilization. As I guessed it's Southern China. In 1937, the Army and Navy made an agreement that the Army is responsible for fighting the enemy air presence in North China, while the Navy would deal with Middle and South China. This cup is from the South China group. They got their first Zero fighters in September of 1940, so if the cup is showing a Zero it is after that. South China definitely did not include Sumatra. It is conceivable that one of the units composing the South China force may have seen action further south, but no way to tell, because this was issued to the entire group, not to a particular unit.

[GeorgeP]

Nick,

Thanks a lot for the info.!


George

[Edokko]

Nick, you are truly a whiz !

[Andy Harris]

Sugoi, Nick-san! jozudesu!!!