“Fun Facts” “World History”
The “Politest,” “Bravest,” “Fiercest” Warriors
I have always been intrigued by the Gurkha Regiment of the British Army. From Nepal, these 5’ 3” fighters have a reputation for being the politest soldiers and the bravest and fiercest warriors in the world. Their motto: “Better to die than be a coward.”
In 1815, the British tried to conquer Nepal, but was repelled by the Gurkha warriors. The Brits were so impressed, they agreed to cease their conquest in Nepal if the Gurkhas agreed to serve in the British army.
“Who Needs Parachutes?”
During WWII, according to legend, the British planned to drop Gurkha soldiers behind Japanese lines at a mere 400 feet.
The British general explained to the Gurkha commander,“This is so dangerous, we will only take volunteers.”
After conferring with his troops, the Gurkha commander returned,” Sir, everyone volunteers.“
The general replied apologetically, “Be prepared. There will be casualties. We don’t know how many of the parachutes will open at such a low altitude.”
The Gurkha: “Ooohhh! We get parachutes. You didn’t say that?”
1 Gurkha versus 200 Japanese
In 1945 in WW II, a Gurkha rifleman was stationed in a trench with only two other men when over 200 Japanese soldiers attacked. The two comrades were wounded and incapacitated.
As grenades flew into the trench, the Gurkha tried to throw each one back. He was successful with the first two, but the third exploded in his right hand. His fingers were blown off and his face, body, and right arm and leg were badly wounded.
The Gurkha then used his left hand to wield his rifle, killing 31 Japanese and holding off the rest. The Gurkha survived, and he was awarded with the Victoria Cross, the highest British military honor.
1 Gurkha versus 30 Taliban
In 2010, a Gurkha sergeant was alone on a roof guarding a checkpoint in Afghanistan. Suddenly, 30 Taliban, armed with AK-47s and RPGs, attacked from all sides. During the hour-long battle, the sergeant killed 29 of the Taliban, and then he ran out of ammunition. When the last Taliban climbed onto the roof, the sergeant bludgeoned him to death with a tripod. The sergeant was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross, the second-highest British military honor.
The Kukri Knife/Machete
The curved kukri, a short machete, is a part of Gurkha culture and heritage. Custom dictates that “the kukri must draw blood every time it is unsheathed.” The kukri is secured to the back of the Gurkha’s uniform belt.
The Gurkhas are willing to “Bring a knife to a gun fight.”
1 Gurkha versus 40 Armed Robbers
In 2011, a 35-year-old retired Gurkha was riding in a train in India when 40 robbers, armed with knives, swords, and guns, stopped the train and started robbing and raping passengers. Carrying only his kukri knife, the Gurkha attacked. He quickly killed three robbers and injured eight others, whereupon the rest fled.
A Very Selective Path to Honor and Success
For the Nepalese, having a family member serving in the Gurkhas is a source of pride. It is also a pathway out of poverty and illiteracy.
The recruitment process is very selective. Only about 300 are recruited each year out of 25,000 applicants. They screen for any health problems or physical limitations, and they test mental ability and physical strength and endurance.
The final test is a timed race up the side of a steep mountain while carrying a 55-pound basket on their back, filled with sand and rocks and held by a band across their forehead.
The London Edition 