WWII Japanese cigarette case USMC battlefield pick up

[helmetbuyers]

Hello forum..

it's been a very long time since I posted anything Japanese related.

I found this an estate sale about a month ago.

I was told the marine was instructed to go through the pockets of dead Japanese officers. Looks like there is a permission slip to do so included.

I assume the purpose was to find anything of intelligence value. The marine kept this case.

Any idea what the case says? It looks like it could have been burned.

thanks for the help. Robert

[helmetbuyers]

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[imperialjapan]

The two large kanji on the right read 'Serving the Nation' (報国). To the left is the artist attribution: 'Written by Terauchi' and then his kao. This artist wrote the kanji to the right, though, not the picture below. I suppose Terauchi was an accomplished calligrapher so they used his kanji to make it more artistic.

[GeorgeP]

That document with the case is super interesting! First time I have seen something like that.


Tom

[Striking 9th]

Neat pick up Robert!!

[beretta1934]

Interesting combination! Please don't break it up when the day comes to sell it. Wording on paper tag is very unique and telling.

[helmetbuyers]

Thanks guys for the help and awesome translation.

have a great New Year. Robert

[helmuthunter]

A wonderful piece of history. I love it. Congrats.., Johnno.,

[Ryukyutunnelrat]

wow great set! Never see the card before.....very cool. Thanks for sharing

David.