Original U.S. WWII USMC Twice Named Camouflage-Painted P41 Lower Pack - Jesse R. Simpson & Brynley W. Dolman

Original Item: One-of-a-kind. This is an original U.S. Marine Corps (U.S.M.C.) lower pack for the M1941 pack system. This is the lower knapsack that would strap to the upper haversack. The lower pack is made of khaki canvas, has brass buckles and strap tips. It has the "ears" that fold inward to secure the contents, has a large flap on front that secures with two straps. A khaki web strap extends across the top, which was used for threading through the brass buckles at the bottom of the haversack, to secure the lower pack to the upper. All parts present and in good shape. The pack is in very good combat-worn condition. The most interesting aspect is the hand painted camouflage paint on the exterior which is indicative of use by a Marine Raider.

This example is named twice with stencils, the first being J.R. SIMPSON, and we were able to find two possible matches. The first is Sergeant Jesse R. Simpson, who served with the Headquarters Company, 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, and the second is Corporal John R. Simpson, who served with the 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.

The second name is B.W. DOLMAN, which is easily identified as Platoon Sergeant Brynley W. Dolman, who served first with the 7th Marine Regiment, and later the 22nd Marine Regiment. Considering that the Marine we could confirm the identity of was with the 7th Marine Regiment, we believe it most likely that J.R. Simpson is for John R. Simpson who was also with the 7th Marine Regiment, but we cannot say with complete certainty. Whatever the true identification is, this is certainly a period-camouflaged lower pack which saw heavy combat service with two different Marines!

This is an outstanding P-41 Lower pack with great research potential. Ready for further research and display!