ARTIST: Japanese mid 20th century, Atsuko Kunita
TITLE: Portrait of U.S. Marine Lt. Joseph Caminiti
YEAR: 1962
MEDIUM: Oil on canvas
SIGNATURE: Lower left
ART SIZE: 24x19,5 inches / 61x50 cm
FRAME SIZE: 32x28 inches / 81x71 cm
CONDITION: Few small paint losses. Some craquelure. No visible inpaint under UV light. Wear to frame.
DESCRIPTION: Exceptional 1962 original oil portrait of Lt. Col. L. J. Caminiti, United States Marine Corps, painted during his stationing in Iwakuni, Japan by Japanese artist Atsuko Kunita. Executed in a classical realist style, the painting showcases Caminiti in full dress uniform with seven service medals, painted with attention to detail and a strong, dignified expression. The piece is signed “Atsu.” lower left and retains the original brass plaque reading “Lt. Col. L. J. Caminiti / by Atsuko Kunita.” The canvas is marked “Fukuoka” on the reverse, confirming its Japanese origin. A powerful historical and military portrait from the post-WWII era, ideal for collectors of military art or American history.
Joseph “Joe” Caminiti – Biography: Joseph Caminiti, known affectionately as “Joe,” is a 101-year-old U.S. Marine Corps veteran who continues to inspire as one of the few surviving members of the 5th Marine Division. Born in 1923, he enlisted during World War II and served with Company B, 1st Battalion, 28th Marine Regiment. On February 19, 1945, Joe stormed the beaches of Iwo Jima and later participated in the iconic flag-raising on Mount Suribachi—a moment immortalized in U.S. history. His exceptional service during the battle earned him both the Bronze Star and the Army Commendation Medal.
Following World War II, Caminiti stayed on in the Pacific as part of the occupation forces in Japan. Decades later, in March 2024, he made a remarkable return to Iwo Jima—80 years after the battle—attending a joint U.S.–Japan “Reunion of Honor” ceremony. Despite being 100 years old then, he traveled to Guam and endured the long flight back to the island, marking a poignant homecoming alongside other survivors
Despite his age, Joe Caminiti remains remarkably active—going to the gym daily and participating in veterans’ events. In early 2025, he journeyed once again to Japan, attending ceremonies to commemorate the Battle of Iwo Jima . Now at 101, he continues to be a living testament to courage and resilience, preserving the legacy of his fellow Marines and connecting past and present through his unwavering spirit.