The Japanese Imperial Army used two basic cuts of uniforms during World War II. The older Model 90 (1930) with a lying collar and the more modern M98 (1938). Both types were produced in summer cotton and winter wool versions. This sergeant’s uniform jacket (GUN SO) is an example of the winter Model 98 and was made in 1942. The uniform was brought back as a trophy from Okinawa by an American soldier, a member of the 7th Infantry Division. The jacket was acquired for the collections of the Military History Institute in Prague by purchase from a family member in 2009.
The jacket is made of mustard-coloured woollen cloth and lined with white cotton twill. The rank insignia of a sergeant is embroidered on the collar. The jacket is fastened by 5 large copper buttons. The upper pockets are sewn on and fasten by small copper buttons sewn on top.