History of the Gurkhas
Gurkhas are well known throughout the world for their professionalism, dedication, discipline, loyalty, integrity and courage in the face of danger. The majority have served on average 20 years with the British Army, stationed worldwide. They adapt to any culture, environment or society where they are called upon to serve.
When the British East India Company tried to expand their trade routes into Nepal and beyond, they encountered the Gurkha’s. They got their name from the Gurkha district of Nepal. These hill men fought the British Army over a number of years, and their respect for each other grew. The British were so impressed by their fighting skills that it was suggested that the Gurkha hill men should be recruited into the Army to form new Battalions made up entirely from their numbers. In March 1816, a treaty was signed signalling a cessation to hostilities. In April of the same year, authorisation to form the first Battalion of Gurkha recruits took place.
The Gurkhas have been part of the British Army for nearly 200 years. During that time, they have fought in every major theatre of war, from the first Afghan war through to Bosnia, the Falklands and more recently Iraq. They have received in all 6,500 decorations for bravery, including 13 Victoria Cross awards. The Gurkha of today retains all the characteristics of his forefathers. He is brave, tough, patient, adaptable, intensely proud and has unswerving loyalty.
