Original Items: Only One Set Available. The “782 Backpack system” (1941 haversack and knapsack) was introduced in mid-1942 to replace the M1928 haversack. It consisted of the upper portion, the haversack and the lower portion, the knapsack. Can be worn in various combinations depending on the requirements of field gear and equipment.

This is a good worn example of the P41 Upper pack for this system. The underside of the front flap is stamped:

U.S.M.C.
BOYT
42

The back side of the pack is stenciled with the name M. MOSTELLER over a stenciled Engineer castle next to HS. This is a UNIS marking for the 2nd Engineer Battalion, Second Marine Division, with HS denoting Headquarters & Service Company. The name identifies this pack to Lieutenant and later Captain Michael Mosteller, who fought in several campaigns in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater with the 2nd Engineer Battalion. 

The “Unit Numerical Identification System'' was used to hide unit identities. The 4th Marine Division used this system to a far greater extent than any other Division during WW2. Each Marine Division was identified by a geometrical shape, in the case of the 4th Marine Division this was a semicircle. Enclosed within the shape was a 3-digit code with this one being 533. An additional number stenciled above the semi circle denoted the rank which does not appear to be present on this one. The stenciling is in great shape and appears to have been applied twice, with the first one being heavily faded. The “500 series” was a system used by the 25th Regiment of Marines.

A good slightly used example with most straps retained, though one piece is missing under the stencil. The pack is still quite solid with all stitchings still intact. This example definitely saw use and was not abused.

Comes ready for display.