Small metal bottle of gas mask lens anti-freeze : Imperial Japanese Army

Small green painted metal container with pressed edges and a shaped neck, sealed with a rubber stopper which is fitted with an integral cotton pad applicator. A length of wire, also painted green, is fitted around the neck of the bottle and folded in a manner which provides a pair of legs, enabling the bottle to stand upright. A paper label in Japanese on the front identifies the contents as anti-freeze and adds 'When air temperature falls below freezing, add the anti-freeze to the main fluid through the air valve (or leaf). If spilt on the surface, immediately wash off with water. If applied very thinly to the external lens, it will assist in preventing fogging.' The remainder of the label is missing. The tin is empty.

Related to the Second World War service of NX36785 Sapper Clarence Cyril Mayes, 2/6 Battalion. Sapper Mayes served as a battalion runner and scout, and recovered this metal phial from an abandoned Japanese camp at Efogi on the Kokoda Trail, New Guinea. The anti freeze compound was a standard accessory for coating gas mask respirator eye pieces.