We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. You can Modify or Reject the use of the cookies. See our cookie policy.
Japan. Greater East Asia War Medal with case, 1944
The Greater East Asia War Medal (大東亜戦争従軍記章, Daitōa sensō jūgun kishō) was a Japanese medal established on June 21, 1944, by Imperial Edict No. 417 to reward service in the Pacific War.
Although intended for combatants, only a small number of original 1944 medals were produced before the end of the war, and almost all were destroyed.
A memorandum dated December 15, 1945, issued by the General Headquarters of the Occupation Forces, prohibited the public use of the term “Greater East Asia War,” meaning these medals could no longer be issued and were ultimately ordered to be destroyed by the U.S. Occupation Forces. After the war, veterans’ organizations produced popular reproductions during the 1950s and 1960s. This medal, like most found today, is one of these later reproductions.
