A scarce and desirable Marine accoutrement that was without question worn during the battle of Iwo Jima. The pack is the P41 haversack made by Boyt / 1943. During the Iwo Jima campaign the 4th Division used specific unit markings on their equipment and uniforms for easy identification by unit commanders and troops. The 4th Division UNIS markings consisted of 3 numbers inside a semi-circle which indicated a specific unit. There was a number above the unit marking which indicated rank (1-9, PFC thru General).
This haversack belonged to Anthony E. Curto with his name twice stenciled on the pack. The UNIS markings indicate 4th Division, Headquarters Service Company with the number “1” above the unit marking indicating that Curto was a PFC. Curto shows up in the Marine Corps muster roles from early 1943 thru late 1945. He participated in the actions at Saipan, Marshall Islands and Iwo Jima. The haversack is in very good condition with all buckles and straps present with the exception of the cartridge belt suspender strap on inner side of pack which was often removed by the owner. The markings are unquestionably original and correct as can be seen by the overall age and wear of the pack. This is a fantastic piece of history that accompanied a Marine during the Iwo Jima battle.
