Second Gurkha Victoria Cross winner welcomed to Hounslow

4:30pm Wednesday 3rd December 2008

Hounslow welcomed one of its newest residents – and made a small piece of history when it became the only borough in the country to be home to two living Victoria Cross holders.

Lachhiman Gurung was officially welcomed at a ceremony attended by Hounlsow’s mayor Councillor Genevieve Hibbs and council leader Councillor Peter Thompson last Thursday.

Gurung won the Victoria Cross for his heroic actions while serving in the 8th Gurkha Rifles, at Taungdaw, Burma, on May 12, 1945.

He was positioned at the most forward post of his platoon when at least 200 enemy forces advanced.

For four hours and despite being severely wounded Gurung remained alone at his post, waiting for each attack which he met with gunfire at point-blank range from his rifle, determined not to give one inch of ground.

Speaking at the ceremony Coun Thompson said: "People often say that we have no heroes in this country - we know today that that isn’t true.

“It is an honour and source of great pride for Hounslow to have these real heroes living here.

“One of the strengths of this borough is that we have people from all over the world who have made it their home and I am sure that your small but industrious community will contribute to creating with us a stronger and more united borough.”

Actress Joanna Lumley, who has been championing Gurkha’s rights, sent a message of support and praise to the borough.

She said: “Hounslow is setting a grand example by this generous gesture, so richly deserved by a faithful friend and a gallant soldier whose bravery is immeasurable.”

Major Jim Skelton, of the 2nd Battalion Royal Regiment of Fusiliers who are based at Hounslow Barracks, paid tribute to Gurung during the ceremony while Councillor Paul Lynch gave the Gurkha battlecry “Ayo Gurkhali”. Tul Bahadur Pun, Hounslow’s other Victoria Cross holder, was unable to attend.

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