Translation Help WWll Vet Bring Back Japanese Samuri

[xqsme]

Finally found a forum that knows all about Japanese Swords. I was given this sword by my uncle, a WWll US Marine that served in the Pacific. He passed away at 92 years old, and still tough as nails. For the life of me i can't remember  the island he was on. But he was very graphic on how he acquired this sword.  Anyway, any and all information this forum can help with is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[SteveM]

Looks like the smith's name is Kanesada (兼定). The last character looks a bit funny.

(This is a way of saying, "If I am wrong, I blame the bad handwriting of the swordsmith").

 

The other side shows the date. Shōwa 18 (1943) June. 昭和十八年六月  

[xqsme]

Thanks Steve. So it's a military issued blade?

[SteveM]

Yes, standard WW2. Not so much a "samurai" blade as it is an arsenal blade. 

[PNSSHOGUN]

It is in standard Type 98 mounts, generally a coloured tassel would be on the little loop at the bottom of the handle to signify the owners rank. We would all be interested to hear the story of how it was acquired if you wanted to post it in the Military Sword section?

[ROKUJURO]

No John,

not all are interested....

[Bruce Pennington]

"WE" over at "the Military Sword section" definitely would be interested to hear the story.

[Brian]

Quote

But he was very graphic on how he acquired this sword

Not everyone wants to hear gory and sensitive details about battles or the sadness of war.
Please use your discretion and use the "spoiler" feature if sensitive info is posted.

[Stephen]

Nor do i, after setting up at gun shows for 20 years and all those local yokals who had a war story that had been embellished 20-fold I'll pass.