"Honouring the Bravery of the Gurkhas: VE Day 80 Commemoration Colchester"

Colchester Nepalese Society | 8 May 2025

On Thursday, 8 May 2025, the Colchester Nepalese Society hosted a deeply moving Gurkha version of the VE Day 80 commemoration, marking 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe. The event at Abbeygate House at 14:00 followed earlier City-wide ceremonies and provided a unique opportunity to reflect on the incredible contributions of Gurkha soldiers during WWII.

Morning Commemorations

The day began with the VE Day 80 flag-raising ceremony at Colchester Town Hall at 09:00, followed by a solemn service at the War Memorial at 12:30. After the Town Hall reception, the Mayor of Colchester, along with Pam Cox MP and the Garrison Commander, arrived at Abbeygate House to join members and guests of the Colchester Nepalese Society for a Gurkha-led remembrance service.

The Gurkha Legacy in World War II

Once in position at their designated area, the Chair of the Society welcomed the dignitaries and guided them through the ceremonial proceedings. The Secretary then read a powerful historical summary of the Gurkhas' involvement during WWII:

Over 250,000 Gurkha soldiers, primarily recruited from Nepal, fought for the British Empire in various war theatres.

North Africa: Battles in Egypt and Libya, particularly against Rommel's forces.

· Italy: Key roles in major campaigns, including Monte Cassino.

· Burma (Myanmar): A crucial contribution in jungle warfare against the Japanese

· India: Defended the Indian border during key operations.

· Malaya: Active in resisting Japanese occupation.

· France and other regions: Provided vital support across continents.

The Gurkhas earned a lasting reputation for their bravery, discipline, and loyalty, with many decorated for gallantry. The cost of this valour was sobering:

2,000 Gurkhas killed

Approximately 8,000 wounded

Lighting of Lamps & Act of Remembrance

Following the historical tribute, the Mayor, MP, and Garrison Commander joined the Chair in lighting ceremonial lamps, followed by guests and members in attendance.

The Chair then solemnly recited:

"They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn..."

A heartfelt rendition of The Last Post by Ingrid Leatherdale was followed by two minutes of silence and Reveille.

The ceremony concluded with the poignant Kohima Epitaph:

"When you go home, tell them of us and say: For your tomorrow, we gave our today."

Special thanks were given to Ingrid Leatherdale, who declined payment for her performance and offered it as her personal tribute to the fallen.

Community Thanks & Shared Meal

The Mayor and Pam Cox MP expressed gratitude for the event and its focus on Gurkha contributions. The MP briefed her colleagues in the House of Commons a day before on the significance of the Gurkha version of the VE Day 80 commemoration.

To conclude the day, a delicious late curry lunch was served, prepared by community members including Dambar Limbu, Kul Prasad Limbu, Machhindra Limbu, Chin Bahadur Pun, Ladies' Coordinator, Jas Kumari Gurung, Mishra Gurung, table mats, spoon and fork were delivered by the proprietor of Gurkha Britannia and many others from Gurkha Home. Their efforts were warmly appreciated by guests and members alike.

In Gratitude

The Colchester Nepalese Society extends sincere thanks to everyone who participated, supported, and attended this special commemoration. Together, we honoured the legacy of the Gurkhas — heroes whose sacrifice helped shape the freedom we cherish today.

Udai B Gurung MBE

Chair/Trustee

CNS

Dear Chair,

Perhaps it is due to the loyalty and bravery of our ancestors that we have the opportunity to stand proudly in one of the most developed nations in the world and declare that we are unique among its citizens. It is essential for us to continue working hard to uphold and promote the honour, legacy and respect earned by our ancestors through their sacrifices and dedication. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to celebrate this significant day in a grand manner every year.

I would like to thank the chairman Major (retd) Udabahadur Gurung MBE and the members of the executive committee for accepting my proposal and adding this event to the annual calendar. I also want to express my gratitude to our generous members who have supported this program, both directly and indirectly. I hope that next year's celebration will be even grandeur.

Kiran Gurung

Advisor

CNS

Dear Advisor Kiran Gurung,

Many thanks for your write up. You are absolutely right that without our ancestors' hard work, dedication, commitment, and sacrifice, we would not have been living in the UK.

Well done for raising your voice during the committee meeting in March and being supported by the committee; we will ensure that VE Day is commemorated on 8 May every year.

May the legacy continue in the future.

Thank you for the excellent videos and photographs captured on the commemoration.

Well done, once again.

Udai B Gurung MBE

Chair/Trustee

CNS