A scarce and desirable Marine accoutrement that was without question carried during the battle of Iwo Jima. 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 is the standard USMC issue canteen cover with cross flaps and the M1910 canteen. The front of cover is stenciled with the 4th Marine Division UNIS symbol 522 inside a half circle. The canteen would have belonged to a private in Company E, 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment. The battalion played a critical role at Iwo Jima in the seizure of Hill 382 (Turkey Knob) in an area that Marines called “the meat grinder”. For its actions, the battalion earned a Presidential Unit Citation.
