This is a Japanese soldier's "Good Luck" flag from World War II. The silk flag measures 26" by 32 1/2". These flags, known as Good Luck, or Hinomaru Yosegaki, were presented to the departing soldier, sailor or airman by his family and friends. A celebration party would be given in the service members honor before he departed. At that time an unsigned Japanese national flag would be placed on a table. All in attendance would be allowed to write their name and little phrases of encouragement to their departing friend in the white field. In addition to the writing, sometimes the flags would have the ink print of a shrine. All this was done to personalize the flag, and to encourage the soldier to uphold his families name by serving to his fullest extent. This flag is signed, has no shrine marks, and has post war writing. It is in good condition, with just one small hole in the white area of the flag. There is no staining anywhere on the flag. Both of the ties are missing. I can't read Japanese, but down in the bottom right corner is an drawing of Mount Fuji and an inscription written in English that reads, "view of Fiji Yama/Yokonika Japan/December 27 1945/town of Hemi". This was most likely done for an American soldier during the occupation of Japan right after the war. It is a nice example of a Pacific Theater souvenir item that was brought home by many GI's.

Item # AA2925

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