WWII Imperial Japanese Army Combat Ethics Manual 1941 Military Doctrine by Tojo

  

EXTRAORDINARY MILITARY ARTIFACT: Original Imperial Japanese Army "Field Service Code" from Japan's Pacific War Era! You're looking at one of the most significant Imperial Japanese Army doctrinal texts ever issued - the infamous combat ethics manual published on January 8, 1941, just 11 months before Pearl Harbor. This particular copy bears the official Army Ministry inspection stamp dated January 5, 1941, confirming its authenticity. What makes this document truly remarkable is that it was personally authorized by Army Minister General Tojo Hideki, who would later become Japan's Prime Minister during most of World War II. The introduction explicitly states this manual was created to provide the principles of battlefield ethics and morale.

The code contained the infamous directive that would profoundly shape Japan's conduct throughout the Pacific War: Never live to experience shame as a prisoner. This single phrase established the expectation that Japanese soldiers should fight to the death rather than surrender - a doctrine that directly led to. The numerous suicide charges American forces faced across Pacific islands. The fierce resistance on Iwo Jima and Okinawa where defenders refused to surrender.

The kamikaze attacks that terrorized the U. Navy in the war's final stages.

The profound psychological barrier that prevented Japanese soldiers from surrendering even in hopeless situations. For serious military historians and collectors, this is an exceptional document that reveals why American forces faced such fanatical resistance. Unlike propaganda meant for public consumption, this was an internal military doctrine text that directly shaped the battlefield conduct of Japanese forces that American troops encountered. The manual is in remarkably preserved condition despite aging, with clear text throughout.

The binding, paper quality, and military printing markings all confirm this as an authentic military-issue document from early 1941. International Buyers - Please Note. Thank you for your understanding.