"In Burma on the 25th October, 1944, two platoons of the 1st Punjab Regiment were ordered to put in a diversionary attack on the flank of an
enemy position. This feature was of exceptional natural strength and
was defended by a large force of fresh Japanese troops who had turned
the hill into a fortress. Every approach was covered by medium and light
machine guns sited in bunkers. The platoon of Subadar Ram Sarup Singh
at once charged the position with another section. This instantaneous
action completely bewildered the enemy, who fled from the bunkered
positions suffering casualties in their retreat. The Subadar was wounded
in the legs but took no notice of his wounds. While he was
consolidating his position, the enemy opened heavy fire with grenade
dischargers, and at the same time put in a strong counter-attack in
three waves of twenty each from a flank. It seemed that the platoon must
be overwhelmed, but Subadar Ram Sarup Singh got another light machine
gun into position and led a charge against the advancing enemy, bayoneting four himself, and checking them. Although badly wounded in
the thigh, he got up and, ignoring his wound, again went for the enemy
shouting encouragement to his men. He bayoneted another Japanese and
shot a further one, but was mortally wounded by a burst of medium
machine gun fire in the chest and neck. It would be difficult to find a finer example of cool bravery,
cheerfulness, leadership and determination. His action had a profound
effect on the rest of the Company, and when volunteers were called for
to bring in his body, under the heaviest fire, the entire Company
volunteered. Subadar Ram Sarup Singh's gallantry will inspire the Regiment for all time."
From Subadar Singh's Victoria Cross citation, awarded on 8 February 1945.
May you be at peace,
Brian & Mel
No comments:
Post a Comment