Silk commemorative items?

[RussM]

I picked these up in the last few weeks. They're about the size of a handkerchief, made of silk. Can somebody please translate for me? Are they commemorative items?

Many thanks.

[Nick Komiya]

That's a small size Furoshiki with verse 1 of the lyrics for the song "The Army Marches on"

[RussM]

Many thanks Nick, appreciated!

Cheers

[Nick Komiya]

I had some time, so I did you the favor of translating the lyrics.


This morning, as the clouds rise high into the sky.

Behold as the land of Japan rises with the sun for the sake of justice.

Men, embrace your guns and swords in response to the call to arms.

For the righteous defense of our fatherland.

In response to his majesty's command, see how the determination and passion of the nation overcome mountains and rivers.

And hear that fluttering of the flags of the advancing army.

[Nick Komiya]

Other texts say "China Incident Commemorative", "The bombing of OO represents the overwhelming force of our army and navy"　Interestingly the bombing target city name is redacted, but obviously the port city of Shanghai from the picture.

This type of furoshiki were typically used by school girls, who carried their bundle of text books and notes to school.

[RussM]

Thank you Nick, very much appreciated!