Passing out parade of Gurkha soldiers held
The passing out parade of 230 Gurkha soldiers was held in Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire in the presence of chief guest Derek Twig, Parliamentary Under-secretary of Defence and Minister for Veterans.
Every year 230 youths are selected from Nepal and undergo nine months army training in the Catterick Garrison.
Gurkha solders are trained to be part of the modern British Army.
Inspecting the parade, chief guest Parliamentary under-secretary of state for defence and Minister for Veterans, praised the Gurkhas for their remarkable jobs in the conflict-ridden Iraq and Afghanistan.
Stating that the selection process of the Gurkha is the toughest of the world, he said, “You are brave, courageous and performing an outstanding job.”
He further said that there is going to be some changes soon for the betterment of the Gurkhas. He however did not elaborate about the changes.
The chief guest also presented the award to the champion trainees and permanent member of staff who made remarkable contribution to Gurkha Company throughout the year.
Parade commander Major Bishnu Pun and Second- in-command Captain Bhakta Bahadur Thapa welcomed the guests and led the parade.
Brigadiers, senior and junior army officers, family members and relatives were present at the passing out parade. The next training for Gurkhas will start in January 2007.
More than 38,000 Gurkhas, who had been serving in the British army since 1815, were killed in the first and second world wars.
Gurkhas are considered to be the bravest soldiers in the world. nepalnews.com pb Oct 15 06
