ON Thursday morning around seventy invited guests left Grays on a double decker bus for a day trip to see the largest Gurkha Baracks in the UK, Sir John Moore Barracks at Shorncliffe near Folkestone in Kent. The trip was organised by Kishor Limbo, President of Thurrock Nepalese Gurkha Community to show the modern day workings of the Gurkha army today and their history to those onboard; volunteers from Purfleet Heritage & Military Centre and members of Thurrock’s Gurkha community. Dignitaries who joined the trip included Jen Craft MP and our new Mayor Sue Shinnick, on her first official engagement. Accompanying her was her consort Cllr. Gary Watson. Former Mayor Cllr. Kairen Raper, councillors, Qaisar Abbas and Aaron Green completed the passenger list.
On arrival we were greeted by Major Dillikumar Rai MVO of the 2nd Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles. He took us to see their Hindu Temple and explained about a bit about their gods followed by a short service.
Next we visited the Brigade of Gurkhas Visitor Centre, where he gave an informative briefing and short history of the Gurkha Regiment highlighting their connections with the British Army. Some of the fascinating facts we learnt were; each year adverts are placed by the Nepalese government for men aged between 18 and 21 to apply to join The Royal Gurkha Rifles. Out of c19,000 applicants only 330 succeed. They go through a rigorous nine months training, which includes parachute training. This has an impressive 85% pass rate. These elite soldiers can only stay as a Gurkha for five years then they must transfer to other army battalions.
We were invited outside to meet Gurkhas soldiers for a hands on visit in the parade ground and were shown weapons, how they are used an and invited to handle them. This was enjoyed by all.
Lunch was provided in the military cookhouse, curtesy of TNGC.
Final visit of the day was to the Gurkha Visitor centre, a small museum where we could explore the history of the Gurkhas.
As we were due to depart, we were invited to see the Queen’s Truncheon (Nishani Mai), the Gurkha equivalent of the Crown Jewels. It is used swear allegiance to the Regiment and Crown, a symbol of loyalty. This is guarded at all times by two armed officers and it was a privilege to be allowed to see it close up. A full and fascinating day.
