WARDATE SIGNAL FLAG FROM USS INDIANA

WARDATE SIGNAL FLAG FROM USS INDIANA

War-date signal flag, approx. 37 x 25.5 in., potentially taken from the USS INDIANA. The flag, of three-piece construction, bears two horizontal yellow stripes on either side of a central red stripe, which represented the number "2" when used for signaling purposes. The hoist has been formed via an extra strip of white canvas, sewn around a rope at the hoist end, which bears the faint ink stamp: "SET 6...MI 45". The flag been housed in a period cardboard box, stamped "Indianapolis, Ind."" on the lid and bearing an "Official Business...NAVY DEPARTMENT" address sticker, sent to the collection of Professor R. W. Snider, a history professor of over 50 years. Providing additional provenance, the flag was housed with an L.S. from F. Kent Loomis to Professor Snider on "Department of the Chief of Naval Operations" letterhead, 1p. 4to., Washington D.C., Aug. 10, 1962, which states that enclosed prints and brochures of the USS Indiana had been previously sent to Professor Snider. While this flag's origins cannot be fully authenticated, it is likely that this piece originated from the USS INDIANA as well. Slightly worn, else a very good relic. The INDIANA was the second of four South Dakota-class fast battleships built for the United States Navy in the 1930s. Her first combat came in late 1942 when she supported marines fighting during the Guadalcanal campaign. Over the next three years, she was occupied with two primary roles: naval gunfire support for amphibious assaults across the Pacific and anti-aircraft defense for the fast carrier task force. She shelled Japanese positions during the Battle of Tarawa in November 1943 and the Battle of Kwajalein in February 1944. She also participated in the Mariana and Palau Islands campaign, bombarding Saipan and helping to defend the fleet during the Battle of the Philippine Sea. Engine problems prevented her from participating in the Battle of Peleliu in September, but she was present for the Battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa.