Food rations in the Japanese forces

[Simon K]

There is a big similarity to Viet Cong / North Vietnamese photographs of the 1950s and 60s in picture 5 on this page.

[aipaul]

There is a big similarity to Viet Cong / North Vietnamese photographs of the 1950s and 60s in picture 5 on this page.

It must be the helmets and floppy hats they are wearing. These are not the typical caps usually seen worn by IJA personnel but I can assure you the umeboshi the one soldier is about to eat is definitely a Japanese food item.

[Simon K]

I know its an authentic picture. There is a strong visual resemblance to Japanese forces in S.E.Asia and especially early (1950s to early 60s) North Vietnamese. Ive noted it before.

Though I am no expert, its possible that the PLA copied certain items of Japanese kit immediately after the war?

Was the early Viet Minh mess tin / canteen unit for example, an IJA derivative? The sun helmets seem a straight copy. The red star helps in the impression

I broadly agree with Alan. It seems as if the Japanese had the most advanced field rations in the world,certainly in 1941. They may even be better in terms of ingredients than C, K, 5 In 1 etc. They were unable to produce them in anything like the required amounts. The planning and production of them was certainly very ambitious.

In terms of the ration types and categories of use, it seems more flexible than the U.S. field ration series.

[aipaul]

The NVA also had a cap which was very much like the WW II Japanese Dress Uniform cap.

http://wingman.dier.us/articles/uniforms.htm

I recall seeing NVA personnel wearing visor caps that looked like WWII Japanese ones. THe chin strap looked different.

[Peter H]

Deerhunters.

Looks like a Sambar of some type.

[Peter H]

Meal on transport

[Peter H]

Tank crews chomping on sugar cane

[Peter H]

More tankers enjoy a meal

[Peter H]

Preparing food

My understanding is that the Japanese had nothing like KP duty and all hands joined in food preparation.

[Peter H]

Making bread?

[Peter H]

Coconuts

[Peter H]

Senior officer with chopsticks

[Peter H]

I don't know if this guy is eating,about to smoke,or even taking snuff.

[Peter H]

Soup?

[Peter H]

Watermelon,again.