| Places | |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | REL34743 |
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Flag |
| Physical description | Cotton, Ink, Leather, String |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Place made | Japan |
| Date made | c 1942-1945 |
| Conflict |
Second World War, 1939-1945 |
Autographed good luck flag carried by Japanese soldier Zushi Ippei : Lieutenant G Morris, ANGAU
Description
Cotton Japanese national flag, signed in ink by members of family and home town and presented to Zushi Ippei. Patriot slogans featured on the flag include 'Show patriotism for the homeland'; 'Pray for fortune in battle and long life' and 'Display the Imperial Army Spirit'. The main inscription over the Hinomaru dedicates the flag to Zushi Ippei from his father Zushi Masao. The flag is fitted with leather triangle reinforcements with cord ties to top and bottom hoist corners. Fly end has been torn and partially repaired.
History / Summary
Related to the service of NX172234 Lieutenant Grainger 'Blue' Morris, born 3 October 1924, of Hornsby, NSW. Morris appears to have served in the militia as a gunner before enlisting, at age 18, on 22 May 1943. He received training at Duntroon as an Australian New Guinea Administrative Unit (ANGAU) officer before serving in New Guinea from mid-1945. Morris was present at the Wewak surrender of Japanese forces in New Guinea, serving as a Pidgin English translator for the New Guineans present at the ceremony. This flag was given to him by members of the Japanese surrender party. Lieutenant Morris was discharged on 1 October 1946.