Rick L

That was me. I believe you pointed me to this site, and my post reanimated this older post where my father was indirectly trying to get a translation.

Thanks, Jon. Any advice on how to find a reliable Togishi in my area (south Florida)? Also, does anyone recommend a site on sword care for an antique like this?

Thank you, tokashikibob. Yes, my grandfather was an Army officer in occupied Japan, and a number of swords were surrendered to them. He had graduated from West Point and was going to be in the invasion force as his first action. The fanciest swords went to the guys who had seen action.

No need to forgive - you brought me a little joy finding an unknown connection with Dad.

Thank you, Sam. He graduated Annapolis in '65 and served two tours in Vietnam, and retired a Captain. Raised three children, helped many people, and lived to celebrate his 80th with a surprise birthday party. Diagnosed February with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Still in hospice, but unconscious since last Tuesday.

Wow - thank you! This looks like the exact same characters, but with chalk. B.Hennick said he was trying to help someone who's father got this blade during WWII. I wonder if he was trying to help my father?

Hi all - my father is passing and left me this sword, which he got from his father. Grandad was in the occupying army in Japan after WW2. A kind redditor pointed me this way, and said that the writing says “at the battle of Toishi, Naito Mitsumoto cleaved through a man and his horse”. I’d love to learn more about it. The forum won’t let me post all of the pictures; I’ll follow up with more. Thank you, Rick L