Bataan Dog Tag Query

[John Baxter]

I recently bought a relic dog tag that was dug up on Bataan back in the 1990s and it contains only the name of the soldier, Tommy T. Daniels. Daniels was a POW captured by the Japanese on Bataan in 1942 and was later among the 11 men who escaped with their lives from the infamous Palawan Massacre in 1945. Does anyone know why a dog tag would contain only the soldier's name? The only explanation I have been able to think of is that the tag was stamped in the field and was discarded for some reason before being completed. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

[Simon H]

Hello John,

The tag you acquired may have been discarded after partial stamping. I've found some in the ETO that were also name only and no tetanus dates, these belonged to negro troops who, it would appear were not given the option of having a tetanus jab - either because of race or because they were second line troops and not deemed to be at risk.

Best Wishes,
Simon

[John Baxter]

Thanks, Simon--I really appreciate your very helpful reply.

[Simon H]

Glad to help John.

Kind Regards,
Simon