U.S. M-1878 Haversack

[82Trooper]

Good morning.
I recently purchased a U.S. M-1878 haversack and leather carrying strap from International Military Antiques (I.M.A.). This vintage of equipment is not my usual field of interest, but having recently discovered great-uncle had served in the U.S. Army in the Philippines at the turn of the century sparked some interest.

Overall, I am very pleased with the condition of the item and the leather sling. The haversack has nice markings, appears to have all the hardware present and functional and has no major stains or painted out unit markings. It was advertised as an "early" model, having the "D" rings rather than hooks and having the split letters on the "US stencil. The inside is marked "Rock Island Arsenal" and there are initials "F.P." under the closure strap. It cleaned up nicely with a bristle brush. The leather strap came back to life with the application of neatsfoot oil. It is supple and flexible again.

I am looking for some assistance in deciphering the unit markings on the flap. Hopefully someone here with knowledge (or simply better eyesight!) can help me on this quest. As always...thanks in advance.
Mike