An Excellent Signed WW2 Japanese Officer's Sword with Beautiful Hamon & Very Fine Condition Mounts, Signed Ikeda Kanetsuna Saku, Resident of Seki

A good example, in very nice condition. Saya with leather combat cover. Signed blade. Typical Pattern 1936 officers mounts, circa 1935 flower pattern brass tsuba. Directly from the officer captured as a war trophy by an officer of the 1st 3rd Queen Alexandra's Ghurkas, 17th Indian Div. 'God Almighty's Own' who saw heroic service in Burma in WW2.

The Gurkha Museum, Winchester, confirms that 18 Military Crosses were awarded during the Second World War to officers of the 1st Battalion 3rd Gurkha Rifles: It was originally a Gurkha regiment of the British Indian Army formed in 1815. They were present at a number of actions and wars including the Siege of Delhi in 1857 to the First and Second World Wars. Victoria Cross or VC is the UK's highest award for bravery by a military person in the presence of the enemy. It is the most honored, prestigious award and the senior most decoration for valour and heroism in the line of duty awarded by the British Government. It takes precedence above all other medals and orders, including the “George Cross”. Twenty-Six, Victoria Crosses have been won by Gurkha Regiments, including two to the 3rd Gurkha Rifles. The gentleman, from whom this sword came was scholar of the old Varndean College for Boys in Brighton. In 20 years we have had three swords from old Vardenians.
He volunteered for service, and was requested to transfer to one of the British Indian Army Gurkha regiments, which he eagerly was pleased to do. Serving his whole war fighting the Japanese, in regular and guerrilla warfare, we quote personal reflections on experiances of serving with the Gurkhas;

"there was barely a day went by when my lovely boys didn't fight with acts of combat heroism worthy of a Victoria Cross, but we had no time for medals, we were too busy fighting for our lives"
A true officer and gentleman in every sense of the word.

Code: 24951