"During the assault on enemy positions in front of Keren, Eritrea, on the
night of 7-8th February, 1941, Subadar Richpal Ram, who was
second-in-command of a leading company, insisted on accompanying the
forward platoon and led its attack on the first objective with great
dash and gallantry. His company commander being then wounded, he assumed
command of the company, and led the attack of the remaining two
platoons to the final objective. In face of heavy fire, some thirty men
with this officer at their head rushed the objective with the bayonet
and captured it. The party was completely isolated, but under the
inspiring leadership of Subadar Richpal Ram, it beat back six enemy
counter-attacks between midnight and 0430 hours. By now, ammunition had
run out, and this officer extricated his command and fought his way back
to his battalion with a handful of survivors through the surrounding
enemy.
Again, in the attack on the same position on 12th February, this officer led the attack of his company. He pressed on fearlessly and determinedly in the face of heavy and accurate fire, and by his personal example inspired his company with his resolute spirit until his right foot was blown off. He then suffered further wounds from which he died. While lying wounded he continued to wave his men on, and his final words were, "We'll capture the objective." The heroism, determination and devotion to duty shown by this officer were beyond praise, and provided an inspiration to all who saw him."
Again, in the attack on the same position on 12th February, this officer led the attack of his company. He pressed on fearlessly and determinedly in the face of heavy and accurate fire, and by his personal example inspired his company with his resolute spirit until his right foot was blown off. He then suffered further wounds from which he died. While lying wounded he continued to wave his men on, and his final words were, "We'll capture the objective." The heroism, determination and devotion to duty shown by this officer were beyond praise, and provided an inspiration to all who saw him."
From Subadar Richpal Ram's Victoria Cross citation, awarded on 4 July 1941.
Another honored ally,
Brian & Mel
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