ARTWORKS

Havildar (later Honorary Captain) Gaje Ghale (1919–2000), VC, 2nd Battalion, 5th Royal Gurkha Rifles (Frontier Force)

Simon Elwes (1902–1975)

National Army Museum

Havildar (later Honorary Captain) Gaje Ghale (1919–2000), VC, 2nd Battalion, 5th Royal Gurkha Rifles (Frontier Force)

© the artist's estate. Image credit: National Army Museum

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The Nepalese soldier Gaje Ghale was awarded the Victoria Cross for his actions during a battle in the Chin Hills near Imphal, Burma, on 27 May 1943. Japanese forces occupied the hills overlooking a position held by the 17th Indian Division. In order to destroy this advantage, the havildar (Indian officer) led a platoon to attack these forces via a perilous five metre-wide rock spur. Despite the bullet wounds that he received in his leg, chest and arm, Havildar Ghale fought tirelessly, cheering his men onwards, as they launched repeated assaults. The platoon succeeded in taking the Japanese position, and maintained it under heavy fire.

National Army Museum

London

Title

Havildar (later Honorary Captain) Gaje Ghale (1919–2000), VC, 2nd Battalion, 5th Royal Gurkha Rifles (Frontier Force)

Date

1943

Medium

oil on canvas

Measurements

H 57.8 x W 46.4 cm

Accession number

NAM. 1956-02-20

Acquisition method

gift from the 5th Gurkha Rifles Regimental Association, 1956

Work type

Painting

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National Army Museum

Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea, London, Greater London SW3 4HT England

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Artist or maker

Simon Elwes

1902–1975

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