M3 Stuart tank in IJN colours and Sshimushir map

[marek O.]

Hello,
I have 2 pictures. And I have problems with both of them.
1st. Map of Shimushir island in 1944. I have found the map on some Russian page. I've downloaded it. Then printed. But it is almost unreadable. Kanji singns are either very small [like it is enclosed below] or in no read condition [printed version]. What I could translate is that it's probably a map of disposition of 129th IR on Shimushir, between March and June 1944. For example, there are some units with given number 1. and 2. to see it on the map. However where are the numbers on that map is impossible to find, in my version of the map. Do You happen to have this map in better condition than mine? Do You know what was Japanese name for the lake in Midoriko Caldera, in the middle of Shimushir. Now I believe it's called Ozero Biryuzowoje.
2nd. Picture of M3 Stuart tank. I have this pic from digital version of one of Polish history magazines. In the article is a mention that some M3 tanks were used, by Japanese, as a "construction" machines on some airfields in the area of Manila. In the caption of this pic there is mention that it was made on February 1945 in Manila and the tank belongs to Manila Naval Defence Force. Colours on tank look a little strange for 1945. Any comment about the tank in IJN colours? Maybe You know what colours were used to paint the tank?
Regards,
Marek

[fontessa]

Hello Marek,

The below is the original of your map. It was pulled from Senshi Sosho Vol.44.
According to it, the units deployed to Paramushir were:
- 129th Infantry Regiment
- 3rd Company / 42nd Division Engineer Unit
- 23rd Independent Field AA Gunnery Compay
- 4th Field Hospital / 42nd Division
The figures 1 -12 in the island show company numbers (1st Company - 12th Company).

fontessa

[marek O.]

Thank You, fontessa.
Now I have a map that is really easy to read.
Thank You,
Regards,
Marek

[FreyFox]

A bit late with the answer)

Here are two maps, the situation for the spring and autumn of 1944.




I have this book in full, maybe something else is needed?

[marek O.]

Thank You freyfox, my friend.
First map You've provided is the bigger, more readable, version of my map of shimushir island. Thank Yoy for the other map. You wrote that You have the book in full. I would be gratefull for any map of Kurile islands with IJA or IJN units disposition on them. Thanks in advance.
Regards,
Marek

[FreyFox]

There are really a lot of maps. Here are a few of them.
If you give me the address. then I will try to send you the whole book, the full scan is about a gigabyte in size