Gurkha VC (Victoria Cross) Holders | Gurkha VC Holders
The Gurkha soldiers, renowned for their courage and loyalty, have a storied history with the Victoria Cross, the British honors system’s highest and most prestigious award. It is awarded for gallantry “in the face of the enemy” to armed forces members. The Gurkhas, originally from Nepal, have not only been an integral part of the British Army for over 200 years but have also significantly influenced its history with their bravery, earning the Victoria Cross on several occasions.
The Gurkha Army is synonymous with courage and resilience. Their spirit is captured in the stories of the Victoria Cross holders, who not only displayed extraordinary bravery but also made personal sacrifices. These heroes, like Kulbir Thapa and Agansing Rai, are celebrated within the Gurkha community and worldwide. Their acts of heroism, often at the cost of their own safety, serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Gurkhas.
The Gurkhas’ historical association with the Victoria Cross, a symbol of the highest bravery, dates back to the early 20th century. Since then, numerous Gurkha soldiers have been honored with this prestigious award. Their tales of heroism, deeply woven into the fabric of military history, continue to inspire generations of soldiers. The Gurkha VC holders, revered figures, are a significant part of the Gurkha Army’s rich heritage, a heritage that fills us with profound respect and admiration.
The Gurkhas are legendary soldiers known for their unyielding courage, unwavering loyalty, and exceptional military skills. They have served in the British Army for over two centuries and have become integral to British military history. The Gurkhas’ bravery and gallantry in combat have been acknowledged multiple times, notably through the awarding of the Victoria Cross (VC), the highest military decoration granted for bravery “in the face of the enemy” to members of the armed forces of various Commonwealth countries and former British Empire territories.
The Gurkhas’ acts of valor have been recognized through the years, and here are some of their most notable heroic achievements:
1. Kulbir Thapa (1915)
Kulbir Thapa, the first Gurkha to receive the VC, served in the 3rd Queen Alexandra’s Own Gurkha Rifles during the trench warfare of World War I. Kulbir Thapa’s act of valor during World War I exemplifies the courage and selflessness that have become synonymous with the Gurkha soldiers. Serving with the 3rd Queen Alexandra’s Own Gurkha Rifles, Thapa was thrust into the grueling conditions of trench warfare, a hallmark of the Western Front. His heroism came to the fore during the intense Battle of Loos in 1915, a key engagement in the broader context of the war.
The Battle of Loos was notable for its scale and the heavy casualties suffered by the Allied forces. Amidst this chaotic backdrop, Thapa’s actions stood out as a beacon of bravery and humanitarian spirit. Despite being wounded himself, he embarked on a perilous mission to save a fallen British soldier. Demonstrating extraordinary courage, he navigated through no man’s land—a perilous expanse between the opposing trenches peppered with barbed wire, mines, and constant artillery fire.
Thapa’s journey was fraught with danger, as German forces occupied the territory he had to cross. Over the course of 24 hours, he made several forays into this deadly zone, each time risking his life to drag the wounded to safety. His commitment extended beyond the call of duty as he not only saved the British soldier but also returned to rescue two of his fellow Gurkhas.
By risking his own life for his comrades and a soldier from another nation, he fostered a deeper bond and mutual respect between the Gurkha soldiers and their British counterparts. His actions highlighted the Gurkhas’ ethos of loyalty, bravery, and honor—qualities that deeply impressed the British military and public alike. For his conspicuous bravery, Kulbir Thapa was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. He was the first Gurkha to receive this honor, marking a significant moment in the history of military valor. His legacy not only celebrates the heroism of one man but also casts a lasting light on the extraordinary contributions of the Gurkha regiments throughout military history.
2. Lachhiman Gurung (1945)
Rifleman Lachhiman Gurung’s extraordinary act of valor during World War II is a testament to the indomitable spirit and bravery of the Gurkha soldiers. Serving in the 4th Battalion, 8th Gurkha Rifles, Gurung’s heroism was most notably displayed during a critical engagement in Burma in 1945, a theater notorious for its harsh conditions and brutal combat.
The situation unfolded when Japanese forces launched a fierce attack aimed at overrunning Allied positions. Gurung was stationed in a forward post, essentially the first line of defense against the advancing enemy troops. As the Japanese intensified their assault, the battle reached a critical point where Gurung’s position became the focal point of the attack.
In the dead of night, the Japanese threw a series of grenades into Gurung’s trench. Displaying quick reflexes, he managed to throw two grenades back at the enemy. However, a third grenade exploded in his right hand as he attempted to throw it back. Despite this severe injury, which resulted in the loss of his right hand, Gurung’s resolve did not waver. With remarkable determination and using only his left hand, he continued to fire his rifle, holding his position single-handedly.
Throughout the night, Gurung maintained his defense, repelling wave after wave of Japanese attacks. His relentless firing and presence in the forward position thwarted the enemy’s advances and inflicted significant casualties. The intensity of his resistance ensured that the Japanese forces could not break through his sector, despite numerous attempts.
For his gallantry, Rifleman Lachhiman Gurung was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration awarded for valor “in the face of the enemy” to members of the armed forces of various Commonwealth countries and previous British Empire territories. His story is not just one of personal bravery; it encapsulates the broader narrative of Gurkha contributions to the Allied efforts in World War II, characterized by their fierce loyalty, exceptional bravery, and significant sacrifices. Gurung’s actions during that night in Burma remain a shining example of heroism and military excellence.
3. Ganju Lama (1944)
Ganju Lama’s heroism during the Battle of Imphal in World War II stands as a powerful testament to the Gurkhas’ valor and their significant contribution to the Allied war efforts. Serving with the 7th Gurkha Rifles, Lama’s actions on June 12, 1944, epitomized the extraordinary bravery and determination characteristic of Gurkha soldiers.
The Battle of Imphal, a key engagement in the Burma Campaign, was critical in halting the Japanese advance into India. It was within this high-stakes context that Ganju Lama’s courage shone brilliantly. As the Japanese forces launched a formidable offensive, the strategic importance of defending Imphal was paramount. The Gurkhas were integral to the Allied defensive operations, and Lama’s role was crucial in the direct confrontation with Japanese tanks.
Despite sustaining severe injuries to both arms and legs early in the engagement, Lama’s resolve remained unshaken. In a display of remarkable tenacity and disregard for his own safety, he continued to man his PIAT (Projector, Infantry, Anti Tank) gun. This weapon, crucial for anti-tank warfare, was notoriously difficult to operate under the best conditions, yet Lama, even in his wounded state, managed to use it against the enemy tanks effectively.
Lama’s bravery directly impacted the morale of his fellow soldiers. Seeing one of their own grievously injured yet steadfastly holding the line and taking on enemy tanks undoubtedly bolstered the fighting spirit of the Gurkhas and their resolve to hold their positions. This act of bravery was recognized with the highest honor, as Ganju Lama was awarded the Victoria Cross, the premier award for gallantry in the face of the enemy.
4. Bhanbhagta Gurung (1945)
Corporal Bhanbhagta Gurung’s heroic actions during the Battle of Tamandu in Burma in 1945 exemplify the extraordinary valor and effectiveness of Gurkha soldiers in combat. Serving with the 3rd Battalion of the 2nd Gurkha Rifles, Gurung’s conduct in this battle earned him the Victoria Cross, one of the highest military honors for bravery in the face of the enemy.
The Battle of Tamandu was a key component of the Allied campaign in Burma, aimed at dislodging entrenched Japanese forces. The Japanese had established several well-fortified bunkers that were pivotal for their defense strategy. These bunkers were heavily manned and positioned to inflict maximum casualties on advancing Allied forces, making them formidable obstacles.
In the heat of battle, Corporal Gurung demonstrated remarkable courage and initiative. Armed primarily with his traditional gurkha khukuri—a symbolic and highly effective close-combat weapon—and grenades, he undertook a series of daring solo charges against these bunkers. The situation was dire, and the need to break the Japanese defenses was critical for the Allied assault to succeed.
Starting with the first bunker, Gurung charged forward under intense fire. Displaying incredible bravery, he used his grenades to stun the occupants before rushing in with his khukuri to neutralize the remaining resistance. His actions were not only highly effective but also extraordinarily fearless, as each bunker clearance exposed him to greater danger.
Successively, Corporal Gurung cleared a total of five bunkers. With each charge, he faced a hail of bullets and the risk of death, yet his resolve did not waver. His audacious assaults resulted in the capture of a strategic position that was critical to the overall mission’s success. More than just advancing the tactical position of his battalion, his actions had a profound psychological impact on both his comrades and the enemy.
Gurung’s relentless attacks cleared the path for his battalion to advance and significantly demoralized the Japanese forces. For his comrades, seeing Gurung take on the enemy bunkers single-handedly provided a tremendous boost to their morale. Inspired by his fearless leadership, they were galvanized to push forward with renewed vigor, contributing to a pivotal victory in the campaign.
5. Rambahadur Limbu (1965)
Rambahadur Limbu’s story is a stirring example of valor and skill, emblematic of the Gurkha warrior tradition. Serving with the 10th Princess Mary’s Own Gurkha Rifles during the Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation in 1965, his actions in the Sarawak region of Borneo are a testament to the bravery and resilience instilled in Gurkhas from a young age. Born in a small village in Nepal, Limbu’s upbringing and military training were steeped in a culture of rigorous physical conditioning, expertise in traditional and modern warfare techniques, and a profound sense of duty.
The confrontation between Indonesia and Malaysia during this period was marked by jungle warfare, requiring soldiers to possess not only combat skills but also the ability to endure harsh and unforgiving environments. Limbu’s training included mastering the khukuri, the iconic curved knife synonymous with Gurkhas, as well as advanced marksmanship and tactical warfare skills. This comprehensive preparation was crucial for the challenges he would face on the battlefield.
Limbu’s heroism was most notably displayed during a critical mission in Borneo when he took decisive action under intense enemy fire. The situation became dire when his section was pinned down, and the machine gunner was incapacitated, putting the entire mission at risk. Demonstrating exceptional bravery, Limbu made multiple forays into the open to drag the wounded to safety, despite the ongoing barrage.
More than just rescuing his comrades, Limbu realized the vital need for ammunition to hold their defensive position. In a remarkable display of courage and tactical acumen, he retrieved the machine gun and its ammunition from an exposed area, braving heavy fire. His actions were not merely about survival but ensuring the operational capability of his unit, which was critical in maintaining their defensive stance and the overall success of the mission.
For his gallantry and sheer determination in the face of overwhelming odds, Rambahadur Limbu was awarded the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration awarded for valor “in the face of the enemy” to British and Commonwealth forces. His story reflects the essence of Gurkha training and ethos—unyielding courage, tactical intelligence, and a deep-seated duty to one’s comrades and mission. These qualities not only define Limbu’s legacy but continue to inspire and resonate within the Gurkha regiments and beyond, highlighting the extraordinary contributions of Gurkha soldiers in global military history.
6. Gaje Ghale (1943)
Rifleman Gaje Ghale’s heroics during the Burma Campaign of World War II epitomize the valor and resilience often associated with the Gurkha regiments. Serving in the 5th Gurkha Rifles, Ghale’s actions in 1943 under exceptionally challenging conditions not only demonstrated his bravery but also his leadership capabilities, which played a critical role in the dynamics of the battlefield.
During an intense period of the campaign, Ghale commanded a section that found itself under siege by a significantly larger enemy force. The situation demanded not just military skill but immense courage and the ability to inspire and lead under pressure. Ghale’s leadership during these attacks was pivotal in maintaining the morale and combat effectiveness of his unit. Through multiple enemy engagements, he was able to galvanize his troops, repelling the assaults and ensuring the strategic position was held.
His bravery went beyond the call of duty and was recognized with the awarding of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious honor for gallantry in the face of the enemy awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. Ghale’s actions during these battles were not just acts of personal bravery; they were instrumental in bolstering the fighting spirit of his fellow soldiers, embodying the quote he later mentioned, “Bravery is not a lack of fear, but a triumph over it.” This statement captures the essence of what it meant to be a leader like Ghale—someone who acknowledges fear yet overcomes it with courage.
After the war, Ghale continued to serve in the army, where his experiences and lessons became invaluable in training new recruits. His post-war role was crucial in passing down the ethos and values of the Gurkha soldiers to future generations, ensuring that the legacy of bravery, leadership, and tactical expertise remained ingrained in the regiment.
Ghale’s story transcended his military achievements, as he became a symbol of the Gurkha spirit—a representation of courage, leadership, and the ability to inspire others. His legacy is remembered not only for the battles he fought but for the indelible mark he left on the Gurkha community and the broader military history. His life and service continue to inspire both military personnel and civilians alike, highlighting the profound impact that courage and leadership can have in overcoming adversities.
Last Thoughts
The stories of the Gurkha VCs signify more than just individual acts of bravery. They represent the lasting legacy and courage of the Gurkha army with VCs. Every VC recipient among the Gurkhas has demonstrated exceptional courage, embodying the spirit and tenacity of all Gurkhas who have served in various conflicts worldwide. These VC achievers have continued a tradition of honor and sacrifice, emphasizing the significant role of the Gurkha army in global military history.
More on Gurkha VC Holders
Twenty-six Victoria Crosses (VC) have been bestowed upon members of Gurkha regiments. The initial VC was conferred in 1858, with the most recent in 1965. Among these recipients were thirteen British officers who served within Gurkha units.
In 1965, during the Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation, Rambahadur Limbu was the latest award recipient.
Rifleman Kulbir Thapa’s conduct, as the first Gurkha to be awarded the Victoria Cross, serves as a remarkable exemplar. In September 1915, the 3rd Queen Alexandra’s Own Gurkha Rifles (3 GR) engaged in significant combat on the Western Front in France.
Deb Bahadur Pun achieved the distinguished position of Major (Queen’s Gurkha Officer), the most senior rank accessible to a Gurkha soldier.