Help with translation of Wood tag attached to WWII IJN Admirals Flag

**Long Shot** · 03-07-2021, 04:19 AM

Just got a nice display sized (~3' x 5') WWII Admirals, hand sewn, flag that came with a tag attached.

Could someone help by doing a translation of this tag for me?

The flag is wool and has mothing but the price was very good and the attached wood block intrigued me.

Thank you for your help

Help with translation of Wood tag attached to WWII IJN Admirals Flag

**MAP** · 03-07-2021, 05:16 AM

I know Guy or Nick will correct me or tease me for my amateurish attempt.... but using Google Lens, it translates to something like "General Brigade"

Of course it's not correct but does seem to be similar in concept to Admiral.

**ghp95134** · 03-07-2021, 07:21 AM

No teasing — you are 2/3rds correct:
大将旗
Taisho Hata
Admiral Flag

— Guy

**Nick Komiya** · 03-07-2021, 11:23 AM

Because navy general officer flags all looked the same when folded up and placed on a shelf, tags were a must not to hoist the wrong one. The tag is read Taisho-Ki, not Taisho Hata.

**Sporter90** · 03-07-2021, 01:56 PM

Nick, A Hatamoto would hate to be called Ki-moto.

**Long Shot** · 03-07-2021, 04:03 PM

Thank you gentlemen! I appreciate the robust round of teasing that went into getting this translation!

I have had many flags over the years but none with an ID tag attached - very fun to find one. Nicks explanation of the use for these makes even more sense given the number of various flags a ship would have to have in "onboard inventory" to cover all the possible command scenarios and flag protocols. Even down to the motor boat launches.

Speaking of launches - Nick do you think a flag this size could/would have likely been used on something like this when it carried ships officers in a water taxi/shuttle role? Still looking for some nice clear wartime photos

**Nick Komiya** · 03-07-2021, 05:34 PM

Yes and no. Those flags denoted command of the particular vessel, so as a general rule no. However, there were 3 exceptions when a general could raise his flag in a water taxi ride. One such case was when he was visiting a foreign vessel. I will highlight that particular section below, if you want to engage a translator to cover all the legal details.