I visited the Indian Army War Cemetery in italy
Sikh Commemoration Forli Italy 2016, Film courtesy by Akaal Channel UK.
Sikh soldiers who gave their lives ( 1002 ) during World War 2 for the liberation of Italy were commemorated in Forli jointly by World Sikh Shaheed Military Yaadgari Committee, Italy & Town Hall of Forli on 06-08-2016. Many Gurdwara's and Sikh Sangat of Italy paid rich tribute to these brave soldiers of Sikh Nation. Since 2007, Sikh soldiers are being remembered here every year.
In Italy, the total Allied casualties killed, wounded and missing were 312,000; of these, 42,000 of the killed belonged to the forces of the Commonwealth in World War 2. Sikhs, Gurkhas, and Muslims, the traditional warriors have a great history in Italy during that terrible and painful period of war. 5773 British Indian soldiers have died in Italy according to CWGC record among them 1002 Sikh soldiers.
It should be noted that Sikhs have fought in Italy (1943-45 ) in 1st - 2nd - 8th - 11th - 15th - and 16th Punjab Regiment, Nabha Akal Infantry, 1st Sikh Engineers , 11 Sikh Regiment, 12th and 13th Frontier Force Rifles, Indian Pioneer Corps and English Regiments with Sikhs like King George V's Own Bengal Sappers and Miners, 1st Duke of York Own Cavalry ( Skinner's Horse ), 6th Duke of Connaught's Own Lancers ( Watson Horse ), Prince Albert Victor's Own Cavalry and Royal Indian Army Services Corps .
At Casino and surrounding area, Sikhs have fought from December 1943 till April 1945 and most of them were killed in 1944. Three hundered and sixty five names of Sikh soldiers are engraved on Casino Memorial and 6 are buried in Casino War Cemetery. Thus 371 in Casino.
3 Sikhs have won IDSM Medal here because of bravery
KIRPAL SINGH, Jemadar, 8556/A. I D S M. 6th Duke of Connaught's Own Lancers (Watson's Horse), I.A.C.. 27 June 1944. Age 29. Son of Bhagwan Singh and Mohinder Kaur; husband of Bachan Kaur, of Singhawala, Ambala, India. Grave Reference: Panel 16.
KISHAN SINGH, Jemadar, 52097/IO. I D S M. 4th Bn., 11th Sikh Regiment. 4 April 1945. Age 30. Son of Puran Singh; husband of Udham Kaur, of Dhanni Pind, Jandiala, Jullundur, India. Grave Reference: Panel 19.
SULTAN SINGH, Subadar, 24293/IO. I D S M. 3rd Bn., 15th Punjab Regiment. 16 September 1944. Age 30. Son of Jug Lal and Lado; husband of Ratni, of Dekhora, Rohtak, India. Grave Reference: Panel 20.
At Forli and Surrounding areas, most of the Sikhs died in 1944. Three hundred and forty seven (347) names of Sikh soldiers are engraved on the Forli Memorial. There now stands a Memorial in their memory, built by Forli City and World Sikh Shaheed Military Yaadgari Committee, Italy, inaugurated on 13-08-2011. Sardar Simranjit Singh Maan, president SAD, Amritsar came specially from Punjab for inauguration.
Gurnam Singh won here Indian Order of Merit.
GURNAM SINGH, Naik, I O M, 12122. 3rd Bn. 1st Punjab Regiment. 10th July 1944. Age 27. Son of Anokh Singh and Harnam Kaur; husband of Harjindar Kaur, of Charik, Kalsia, India. Column 9.
Sangro River Memorial has 201 names of Sikh soldiers and 1 Sikh soldier is buried in Sangro River War Cemetery. Thus 202 Sikhs here. They have fought from October 1943 till 1944. One Sikh
Jagat Singh has won IDSM Medal here.
JAGAT SINGH, Lance Havildar, 13304. I D S M. 4th Bn., 6th Rajputana Rifles. 23 March 1944. Age 29. Son of Bhur Singh and Kair, of Bapini, Khinwsar Todhpur. India. Grave Reference: Column 11.
In Ravenna War Cemetery and Florence War Cemetery (in 1944) are buried 5 and 1 Sikh respectively. Rest are cremated somewhere else.
Inaguration of Sikh monument in Forli, Italy on 13 August 2011 Part 5
On Saturday 13th August 2011, thousands of Sikhs from all over the World mainly from Europe, gathered at Forli Indian Army War Cemetery in Italy in an inauguration ceremony to reveal the first Sikh military monument dedicated to the Sikh warriors who laid their lives in World War II for the freedom of Europe. President of Shromani Akali Dal Amritsar, Sardar Simranjit Singh Mann came specially from Punjab to attend this historical day.
It has reminded the 300 years of the birth of khalsa when to honor the Khalsa and the sacrifices of the Sikh soldiers during World War I, the City of Ieper together with the European Sikh Community organized a celebration of Peace on Sunday 4 April 1999 at Cloth Hall in Ieper - Belgium and the Panj Piara's unveiled a Sikh monument in Hollebeek where Sikh soldiers were deployed and fought the Germans facist for the first time during World War I.
Sikhs have fought in Forli (1943-45 ) in 1st - 2nd - 8th - 11th - 15th - and 16th Punjab Regiment, Nabha Akal Infantry, 1st Sikh Engineers , 11 Sikh Regiment, 12th and 13th Frontier Force Rifles, Indian Pioneer Corps and English Regiments with Sikhs like King George V's Own Bengal Sappers and Miners, 1st Duke of York Own Cavalry ( Skinner's Horse ), 6th Duke of Cannaught's Own Lancers ( Watson Horse ), Prince Albert Victor's Own Cavalry and Royal Indian Army Services Corps . 352 Sikhs died here out of 800 British Indian Soldiers. Other soldiers are from 18 Garhwal Rifles and 4 & 5th Mahratta Light Infantry. For the liberation of Italy, 5773 British Indian Soldiers have died in Italy, mostly Sikhs, along with the Allied forces. Besides Forly, Sikhs have also fought in Cassino, Florence, Ravana and Sangro River during World War II. Montecchio Precalcino Communal Cemetery and Taranto Town Cemetery Extention have also Samaads of 1 Sikh soldier of World War I each.
The event was proudly organized by the World Sikh Saheed ( Martyrs) Military Memorial Committee , Italy, under the leadership of Mr Harwinder Singh, Mr Prithipal Singh, Mr. Kewal Singh, Mr. Satnam Singh, Mr. Sewa Singh Fauji and Mr Balwinder Singh Chahal with assistance from all the Sikh Sangat and Gurdwaras of Italy and with the kind co-operation of the Town Hall of Forli. The whole event was transmitted live by the Sikh Channel and Sangat Channel TVs.
Messages of congratulations and good will were sent to grace this historical occasion by Governor of West Vlanderen Mr. Paul Breyne in whose province Sikhs have fought twice during World War I, Mayor of Ieper Mr. Luc Dehaene whose City was defended by the Sikhs and Chemical Gas Chlorine was used against them in April 1915, Sardar Ganga Singh Dhillon, Chairman Siri Nankana Sahib Foundation, David Symons, Director of Communication & Information, Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Mr. David Symons writes, In the last two World Wars 83,005 Sikh soldiers were killed and 109,045 were wounded. They all died or were wounded for the freedom of Britain, the Commonwealth and the World, enduring shellfire with no other protection but the turban, the symbol of their faith. we that live on can never forget those comrades who, in giving their lives, gave so much that are great and good to the story of the Sikh Regiment. No living glory can transcend that of their supreme sacrifice. May they rest in peace.
The plaque on the monument placed by the Sikh Community Italy states the quotation of Sir Winston Churchill as, We are today able to live with honour, dignity and independence. In the war, they fought and died for us, wearing the turbans.
For more info. Please read the link below.
Inaguration of Sikh monument in Forli, Italy on 13 August 2011 Part 6
On Saturday 13th August 2011, thousands of Sikhs from all over the World mainly from Europe, gathered at Forli Indian Army War Cemetery in Italy in an inauguration ceremony to reveal the first Sikh military monument dedicated to the Sikh warriors who laid their lives in World War II for the freedom of Europe. President of Shromani Akali Dal Amritsar, Sardar Simranjit Singh Mann came specially from Punjab to attend this historical day.
It has reminded the 300 years of the birth of khalsa when to honor the Khalsa and the sacrifices of the Sikh soldiers during World War I, the City of Ieper together with the European Sikh Community organized a celebration of Peace on Sunday 4 April 1999 at Cloth Hall in Ieper - Belgium and the Panj Piara's unveiled a Sikh monument in Hollebeek where Sikh soldiers were deployed and fought the Germans facist for the first time during World War I.
Sikhs have fought in Forli (1943-45 ) in 1st - 2nd - 8th - 11th - 15th - and 16th Punjab Regiment, Nabha Akal Infantry, 1st Sikh Engineers , 11 Sikh Regiment, 12th and 13th Frontier Force Rifles, Indian Pioneer Corps and English Regiments with Sikhs like King George V's Own Bengal Sappers and Miners, 1st Duke of York Own Cavalry ( Skinner's Horse ), 6th Duke of Cannaught's Own Lancers ( Watson Horse ), Prince Albert Victor's Own Cavalry and Royal Indian Army Services Corps . 352 Sikhs died here out of 800 British Indian Soldiers. Other soldiers are from 18 Garhwal Rifles and 4 & 5th Mahratta Light Infantry. For the liberation of Italy, 5773 British Indian Soldiers have died in Italy, mostly Sikhs, along with the Allied forces. Besides Forly, Sikhs have also fought in Cassino, Florence, Ravana and Sangro River during World War II. Montecchio Precalcino Communal Cemetery and Taranto Town Cemetery Extention have also Samaads of 1 Sikh soldier of World War I each.
The event was proudly organized by the World Sikh Saheed ( Martyrs) Military Memorial Committee , Italy, under the leadership of Mr Harwinder Singh, Mr Prithipal Singh, Mr. Kewal Singh, Mr. Satnam Singh, Mr. Sewa Singh Fauji and Mr Balwinder Singh Chahal with assistance from all the Sikh Sangat and Gurdwaras of Italy and with the kind co-operation of the Town Hall of Forli. The whole event was transmitted live by the Sikh Channel and Sangat Channel TVs.
Messages of congratulations and good will were sent to grace this historical occasion by Governor of West Vlanderen Mr. Paul Breyne in whose province Sikhs have fought twice during World War I, Mayor of Ieper Mr. Luc Dehaene whose City was defended by the Sikhs and Chemical Gas Chlorine was used against them in April 1915, Sardar Ganga Singh Dhillon, Chairman Siri Nankana Sahib Foundation, David Symons, Director of Communication & Information, Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Mr. David Symons writes, In the last two World Wars 83,005 Sikh soldiers were killed and 109,045 were wounded. They all died or were wounded for the freedom of Britain, the Commonwealth and the World, enduring shellfire with no other protection but the turban, the symbol of their faith. we that live on can never forget those comrades who, in giving their lives, gave so much that are great and good to the story of the Sikh Regiment. No living glory can transcend that of their supreme sacrifice. May they rest in peace.
The plaque on the monument placed by the Sikh Community Italy states the quotation of Sir Winston Churchill as, We are today able to live with honour, dignity and independence. In the war, they fought and died for us, wearing the turbans.
For more info. Please read the link below.
Inaguration of Sikh monument in Forli, Italy on 13 August 2011 Part 1
On Saturday 13th August 2011, thousands of Sikhs from all over the World mainly from Europe, gathered at Forli Indian Army War Cemetery in Italy in an inauguration ceremony to reveal the first Sikh military monument dedicated to the Sikh warriors who laid their lives in World War II for the freedom of Europe. President of Shromani Akali Dal Amritsar, Sardar Simranjit Singh Mann came specially from Punjab to attend this historical day.
It has reminded the 300 years of the birth of khalsa when to honor the Khalsa and the sacrifices of the Sikh soldiers during World War I, the City of Ieper together with the European Sikh Community organized a celebration of Peace on Sunday 4 April 1999 at Cloth Hall in Ieper - Belgium and the Panj Piara's unveiled a Sikh monument in Hollebeek where Sikh soldiers were deployed and fought the Germans facist for the first time during World War I.
Sikhs have fought in Forli (1943-45 ) in 1st - 2nd - 8th - 11th - 15th - and 16th Punjab Regiment, Nabha Akal Infantry, 1st Sikh Engineers , 11 Sikh Regiment, 12th and 13th Frontier Force Rifles, Indian Pioneer Corps and English Regiments with Sikhs like King George V's Own Bengal Sappers and Miners, 1st Duke of York Own Cavalry ( Skinner's Horse ), 6th Duke of Cannaught's Own Lancers ( Watson Horse ), Prince Albert Victor's Own Cavalry and Royal Indian Army Services Corps . 352 Sikhs died here out of 800 British Indian Soldiers. Other soldiers are from 18 Garhwal Rifles and 4 & 5th Mahratta Light Infantry. For the liberation of Italy, 5773 British Indian Soldiers have died in Italy, mostly Sikhs, along with the Allied forces. Besides Forly, Sikhs have also fought in Cassino, Florence, Ravana and Sangro River during World War II. Montecchio Precalcino Communal Cemetery and Taranto Town Cemetery Extention have also Samaads of 1 Sikh soldier of World War I each.
The event was proudly organized by the World Sikh Saheed ( Martyrs) Military Memorial Committee , Italy, under the leadership of Mr Harwinder Singh, Mr Prithipal Singh, Mr. Kewal Singh, Mr. Satnam Singh, Mr. Sewa Singh Fauji and Mr Balwinder Singh Chahal with assistance from all the Sikh Sangat and Gurdwaras of Italy and with the kind co-operation of the Town Hall of Forli. The whole event was transmitted live by the Sikh Channel and Sangat Channel TVs.
Messages of congratulations and good will were sent to grace this historical occasion by Governor of West Vlanderen Mr. Paul Breyne in whose province Sikhs have fought twice during World War I, Mayor of Ieper Mr. Luc Dehaene whose City was defended by the Sikhs and Chemical Gas Chlorine was used against them in April 1915, Sardar Ganga Singh Dhillon, Chairman Siri Nankana Sahib Foundation, David Symons, Director of Communication & Information, Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Mr. David Symons writes, In the last two World Wars 83,005 Sikh soldiers were killed and 109,045 were wounded. They all died or were wounded for the freedom of Britain, the Commonwealth and the World, enduring shellfire with no other protection but the turban, the symbol of their faith. we that live on can never forget those comrades who, in giving their lives, gave so much that are great and good to the story of the Sikh Regiment. No living glory can transcend that of their supreme sacrifice. May they rest in peace.
The plaque on the monument placed by the Sikh Community Italy states the quotation of Sir Winston Churchill as, We are today able to live with honour, dignity and independence. In the war, they fought and died for us, wearing the turbans.
For more info. Please read the link below.
Khanda & Ik Onkar Tribute to Sikh soldiers by Dy Mayor of Ieper, Belgium at Menin Gate
Harjinder Singh Kukreja, a Businessman and Social Activist of Ludhiana joined the First Deputy Mayor and at that time the acting Mayor, Mr. Jef Verschoore of Ieper in Belgium in presenting a Khanda and Ik Onkar at the Menin Gate. The Menin Gate is a war memorial to the Missing in Ypres, Belgium, dedicated to the British and Commonwealth soldiers who were killed in the Ypres Salient of World War I and whose graves are unknown.
Sikh troops have fought in the First Battle of Ypres (22nd October - 22nd November, 1914) and the Second battle of Ypres (22nd April - 15th May, 1915).
On 22nd October, 1914, the Ferozepore Brigade arrived in Ypres. They comprised mostly Sikhs and were sent to the trenches between Hollebeke and Messines. In 1915, Sikh troops serving in Ypres were among the first ever victims of successful gas attacks in history. Between 24th April and 1st May, 1915, the Lahore Division had lost 3889 men, most of whom were Sikhs in and around Ieper.
Sadly there are only 122 names of Sikh soldiers engraved on the Menin Gate. I requested the Deputy Mayor of Ieper in Belgium to join me in paying tribute to salute and commemorate the thousands of unknown Sikhs who died in and around Ieper, Belgium with the Sikh symbols, says Harjinder Singh Kukreja who also visited the Belgian Trenches in which Sikhs fought bravely and died in gas attacks by the Germans.
A well-known Belgian historian, Mr. Dominiek Dendooven also joined Harjinder in paying tribute to the unknown Sikh soldiers said, It is tragic that how for 80-long years the immense contribution and sacrifice of Sikhs remained forgotten in Belgium but it was only during the 3rd Century of the birth of the Khalsa in April 1999, great contribution and martyrdom of these brave Sikh soldiers were remembered jointly by Town Hall of Ieper and Sardar Bhupinder Singh Holland, representative of European Sikh Community, with Siri Akhand Path Sahib, Sikh Exhibition, Seminar on Sikh History in Ieper. On 3rd of April 1999, at Hollebeke, 1st Monument of these brave soldiers was built and inaugurated by Panj Pira,s. Since then every year on 11th of November, Sikhs throughout Europe are coming to Ieper in large numbers to pay respect and rich tribute. It is encouraging that now Sikhs like Harjinder Singh Kukreja visit the memorial and remind us ongoingly about their contribution.
Harjinder Singh Kukreja also visited the Samadh of a Sikh soldier in Bedford House Cemetery in Ieper where the Samadh of Sepoy Kishan Singh is located. The tombstone in Gurmukhi reads, Ik Onkar Sri Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh, Sanskaare Gaye'. This tribute to the forgotten Sikh soldiers will remind the generations to come to never forget Sikh sacrifices in Europe's freedom.
सयौँ गोरखाली का चिहान भेटियो ईटालीमा || Nepali Gorkha Soldier in Italy
सयौँ गोरखाली का चिहान भेटियो ईटालीमा || Nepali Gorkha Soldier in Italy
Inaguration of Sikh monument in Forli, Italy on 13 August 2011 Part 4
On Saturday 13th August 2011, thousands of Sikhs from all over the World mainly from Europe, gathered at Forli Indian Army War Cemetery in Italy in an inauguration ceremony to reveal the first Sikh military monument dedicated to the Sikh warriors who laid their lives in World War II for the freedom of Europe. President of Shromani Akali Dal Amritsar, Sardar Simranjit Singh Mann came specially from Punjab to attend this historical day.
It has reminded the 300 years of the birth of khalsa when to honor the Khalsa and the sacrifices of the Sikh soldiers during World War I, the City of Ieper together with the European Sikh Community organized a celebration of Peace on Sunday 4 April 1999 at Cloth Hall in Ieper - Belgium and the Panj Piara's unveiled a Sikh monument in Hollebeek where Sikh soldiers were deployed and fought the Germans facist for the first time during World War I.
Sikhs have fought in Forli (1943-45 ) in 1st - 2nd - 8th - 11th - 15th - and 16th Punjab Regiment, Nabha Akal Infantry, 1st Sikh Engineers , 11 Sikh Regiment, 12th and 13th Frontier Force Rifles, Indian Pioneer Corps and English Regiments with Sikhs like King George V's Own Bengal Sappers and Miners, 1st Duke of York Own Cavalry ( Skinner's Horse ), 6th Duke of Cannaught's Own Lancers ( Watson Horse ), Prince Albert Victor's Own Cavalry and Royal Indian Army Services Corps . 352 Sikhs died here out of 800 British Indian Soldiers. Other soldiers are from 18 Garhwal Rifles and 4 & 5th Mahratta Light Infantry. For the liberation of Italy, 5773 British Indian Soldiers have died in Italy, mostly Sikhs, along with the Allied forces. Besides Forly, Sikhs have also fought in Cassino, Florence, Ravana and Sangro River during World War II. Montecchio Precalcino Communal Cemetery and Taranto Town Cemetery Extention have also Samaads of 1 Sikh soldier of World War I each.
The event was proudly organized by the World Sikh Saheed ( Martyrs) Military Memorial Committee , Italy, under the leadership of Mr Harwinder Singh, Mr Prithipal Singh, Mr. Kewal Singh, Mr. Satnam Singh, Mr. Sewa Singh Fauji and Mr Balwinder Singh Chahal with assistance from all the Sikh Sangat and Gurdwaras of Italy and with the kind co-operation of the Town Hall of Forli. The whole event was transmitted live by the Sikh Channel and Sangat Channel TVs.
Messages of congratulations and good will were sent to grace this historical occasion by Governor of West Vlanderen Mr. Paul Breyne in whose province Sikhs have fought twice during World War I, Mayor of Ieper Mr. Luc Dehaene whose City was defended by the Sikhs and Chemical Gas Chlorine was used against them in April 1915, Sardar Ganga Singh Dhillon, Chairman Siri Nankana Sahib Foundation, David Symons, Director of Communication & Information, Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Mr. David Symons writes, In the last two World Wars 83,005 Sikh soldiers were killed and 109,045 were wounded. They all died or were wounded for the freedom of Britain, the Commonwealth and the World, enduring shellfire with no other protection but the turban, the symbol of their faith. we that live on can never forget those comrades who, in giving their lives, gave so much that are great and good to the story of the Sikh Regiment. No living glory can transcend that of their supreme sacrifice. May they rest in peace.
The plaque on the monument placed by the Sikh Community Italy states the quotation of Sir Winston Churchill as, We are today able to live with honour, dignity and independence. In the war, they fought and died for us, wearing the turbans.
For more info. Please read the link below.
इटालीमा ६१८ जना नेपालीको चिहान / स्मारक (Live Video)
Live Video By : Singer Milan Lama Tamang
The War Cemetery lies in the Commune of Rimini in the Province of Rimini, just west of the SS72 from Rimini to San Marino and six kilometres from Rimini.
Take the autostrada A14, Bologna-Ancona. Exit at San Marino, Rimini South. On leaving the motorway head towards San Marino and the cemetery is 4.5 kilometres down this road on the right hand side.
Within the cemetery is located the Rimini Cremation Memorial. This Memorial is one of three memorials erected in Italy to officers and men of the Indian Army who were cremated - the other two cremation memorials are in Forli Indian Army War Cemetery and in Sangro River War Cemetery.
Inaguration of Sikh monument in Forli, Italy on 13 August 2011 Part 3
On Saturday 13th August 2011, thousands of Sikhs from all over the World mainly from Europe, gathered at Forli Indian Army War Cemetery in Italy in an inauguration ceremony to reveal the first Sikh military monument dedicated to the Sikh warriors who laid their lives in World War II for the freedom of Europe. President of Shromani Akali Dal Amritsar, Sardar Simranjit Singh Mann came specially from Punjab to attend this historical day.
It has reminded the 300 years of the birth of khalsa when to honor the Khalsa and the sacrifices of the Sikh soldiers during World War I, the City of Ieper together with the European Sikh Community organized a celebration of Peace on Sunday 4 April 1999 at Cloth Hall in Ieper - Belgium and the Panj Piara's unveiled a Sikh monument in Hollebeek where Sikh soldiers were deployed and fought the Germans facist for the first time during World War I.
Sikhs have fought in Forli (1943-45 ) in 1st - 2nd - 8th - 11th - 15th - and 16th Punjab Regiment, Nabha Akal Infantry, 1st Sikh Engineers , 11 Sikh Regiment, 12th and 13th Frontier Force Rifles, Indian Pioneer Corps and English Regiments with Sikhs like King George V's Own Bengal Sappers and Miners, 1st Duke of York Own Cavalry ( Skinner's Horse ), 6th Duke of Cannaught's Own Lancers ( Watson Horse ), Prince Albert Victor's Own Cavalry and Royal Indian Army Services Corps . 352 Sikhs died here out of 800 British Indian Soldiers. Other soldiers are from 18 Garhwal Rifles and 4 & 5th Mahratta Light Infantry. For the liberation of Italy, 5773 British Indian Soldiers have died in Italy, mostly Sikhs, along with the Allied forces. Besides Forly, Sikhs have also fought in Cassino, Florence, Ravana and Sangro River during World War II. Montecchio Precalcino Communal Cemetery and Taranto Town Cemetery Extention have also Samaads of 1 Sikh soldier of World War I each.
The event was proudly organized by the World Sikh Saheed ( Martyrs) Military Memorial Committee , Italy, under the leadership of Mr Harwinder Singh, Mr Prithipal Singh, Mr. Kewal Singh, Mr. Satnam Singh, Mr. Sewa Singh Fauji and Mr Balwinder Singh Chahal with assistance from all the Sikh Sangat and Gurdwaras of Italy and with the kind co-operation of the Town Hall of Forli. The whole event was transmitted live by the Sikh Channel and Sangat Channel TVs.
Messages of congratulations and good will were sent to grace this historical occasion by Governor of West Vlanderen Mr. Paul Breyne in whose province Sikhs have fought twice during World War I, Mayor of Ieper Mr. Luc Dehaene whose City was defended by the Sikhs and Chemical Gas Chlorine was used against them in April 1915, Sardar Ganga Singh Dhillon, Chairman Siri Nankana Sahib Foundation, David Symons, Director of Communication & Information, Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Mr. David Symons writes, In the last two World Wars 83,005 Sikh soldiers were killed and 109,045 were wounded. They all died or were wounded for the freedom of Britain, the Commonwealth and the World, enduring shellfire with no other protection but the turban, the symbol of their faith. we that live on can never forget those comrades who, in giving their lives, gave so much that are great and good to the story of the Sikh Regiment. No living glory can transcend that of their supreme sacrifice. May they rest in peace.
The plaque on the monument placed by the Sikh Community Italy states the quotation of Sir Winston Churchill as, We are today able to live with honour, dignity and independence. In the war, they fought and died for us, wearing the turbans.
For more info. Please read the link below.
memorial of sikh soldier at maraadi forli (Italy)
punjab regiment
Inaguration of Sikh monument in Forli, Italy on 13 August 2011 Part 2
On Saturday 13th August 2011, thousands of Sikhs from all over the World mainly from Europe, gathered at Forli Indian Army War Cemetery in Italy in an inauguration ceremony to reveal the first Sikh military monument dedicated to the Sikh warriors who laid their lives in World War II for the freedom of Europe. President of Shromani Akali Dal Amritsar, Sardar Simranjit Singh Mann came specially from Punjab to attend this historical day.
It has reminded the 300 years of the birth of khalsa when to honor the Khalsa and the sacrifices of the Sikh soldiers during World War I, the City of Ieper together with the European Sikh Community organized a celebration of Peace on Sunday 4 April 1999 at Cloth Hall in Ieper - Belgium and the Panj Piara's unveiled a Sikh monument in Hollebeek where Sikh soldiers were deployed and fought the Germans facist for the first time during World War I.
Sikhs have fought in Forli (1943-45 ) in 1st - 2nd - 8th - 11th - 15th - and 16th Punjab Regiment, Nabha Akal Infantry, 1st Sikh Engineers , 11 Sikh Regiment, 12th and 13th Frontier Force Rifles, Indian Pioneer Corps and English Regiments with Sikhs like King George V's Own Bengal Sappers and Miners, 1st Duke of York Own Cavalry ( Skinner's Horse ), 6th Duke of Cannaught's Own Lancers ( Watson Horse ), Prince Albert Victor's Own Cavalry and Royal Indian Army Services Corps . 352 Sikhs died here out of 800 British Indian Soldiers. Other soldiers are from 18 Garhwal Rifles and 4 & 5th Mahratta Light Infantry. For the liberation of Italy, 5773 British Indian Soldiers have died in Italy, mostly Sikhs, along with the Allied forces. Besides Forly, Sikhs have also fought in Cassino, Florence, Ravana and Sangro River during World War II. Montecchio Precalcino Communal Cemetery and Taranto Town Cemetery Extention have also Samaads of 1 Sikh soldier of World War I each.
The event was proudly organized by the World Sikh Saheed ( Martyrs) Military Memorial Committee , Italy, under the leadership of Mr Harwinder Singh, Mr Prithipal Singh, Mr. Kewal Singh, Mr. Satnam Singh, Mr. Sewa Singh Fauji and Mr Balwinder Singh Chahal with assistance from all the Sikh Sangat and Gurdwaras of Italy and with the kind co-operation of the Town Hall of Forli. The whole event was transmitted live by the Sikh Channel and Sangat Channel TVs.
Messages of congratulations and good will were sent to grace this historical occasion by Governor of West Vlanderen Mr. Paul Breyne in whose province Sikhs have fought twice during World War I, Mayor of Ieper Mr. Luc Dehaene whose City was defended by the Sikhs and Chemical Gas Chlorine was used against them in April 1915, Sardar Ganga Singh Dhillon, Chairman Siri Nankana Sahib Foundation, David Symons, Director of Communication & Information, Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Mr. David Symons writes, In the last two World Wars 83,005 Sikh soldiers were killed and 109,045 were wounded. They all died or were wounded for the freedom of Britain, the Commonwealth and the World, enduring shellfire with no other protection but the turban, the symbol of their faith. we that live on can never forget those comrades who, in giving their lives, gave so much that are great and good to the story of the Sikh Regiment. No living glory can transcend that of their supreme sacrifice. May they rest in peace.
The plaque on the monument placed by the Sikh Community Italy states the quotation of Sir Winston Churchill as, We are today able to live with honour, dignity and independence. In the war, they fought and died for us, wearing the turbans.
For more info. Please read the link below.
WWII Sikh Regiment Memorial Forli Italy
original music - gladiator - hans zimmer
terminator 2 -
Southall to Cassino - The Battle of Monte Cassino WW2
A short film about the Soldiers of undivided India - Sikhs , Muslims and Hindus who fought in the Second World War.
The Film - Southall to Cassino follows veterans, now living in England, as they travel to Cassino, Italy - scene of some of the worst fighting in the War , the allies suffering 55,000 casualties, to pay their respects to their fallen comrades.
The Indians fought alongside the Polish II Corps, the Free French and Canadian and other Commonwealth & British troops
It is a beautiful, poignant little film , made by the BBC (UK) and it was shown on BBC2 in 1989. Most of these proud soldiers are no longer with us.
The film shows the old soldiers, (Indian, German, British,Canadian ,Polish and Italian) telling their stories and recalling their experiences. There is an interview with a German soldier recalling the chivalry of the Indians.
Apologies for the quality, there are numerous 'dropouts' and loss in sound & vision as it was recorded on VHS and is nearly 30 years old.
I do not own the copyright - uploaded for research purposes only
03. Intriguing Bombay - Memorials of the Great War
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Ep. 3 : Over 1 million Indian soldiers served in the First World War between 1914 and 1919. Over 100,000 soldiers were either wounded or died. While the contribution of these soldiers is forgotten by history, a few memorials still remind us of their sacrifices.
Presented by
Renu Rajani
Written & Produced by
Krunal Palande
Munimento ai Sihk
Riposano in quella terra di Romagna dove hanno perso la vita, durante la seconda guerra mondiale, per liberarla dai nazi fascisti. Sono i militari del contingente indiano sepolti nel cimitero di Forlì. Tutti di religione sikh. E la comunità sihk ogni anno li ricorda. Questa volta anche con un monumento. Il servizio.
Salerno War Cemetery
Salerno War Cemetery is administered by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. It is an ex-British and British cemetery. 1,846 citizens of the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, South Africa and 1 Soviet captain are buried here; it's found 9 miles (14.5 km) south-east of Salerno in the south-west of Italy.
A&H Research: The Indian Soldier's Experience of WWII
Diya Gupta, PHD Researcher at King's College London, explores the lost narratives of Indian soldiers in WWII.
Find out more about English research projects at King's:
“The best moments... are when you come across something – a thought, a feeling, a way of looking at things – that you’d thought special, particular to you. And here it is, set down by someone else, a person you’ve never met, maybe even someone long dead. And it’s as if a hand has come out and taken yours.”
Alan Bennett, The History Boys
Many thanks to the Imperial War Museum and Indian Institute of Technology.
Imphal War Cemetery
Imphal, the capital of Manipur State, is in north east India and borders on upper Burma. The cemetery lies10km from the airport on the Imphal-Dimapur road (Highway 39) in the Deulahland district of the town. The small road leading to the cemetery is 1km along this highway on the right side, opposite the D M College.
Historical Information:
The easiest route from Burma (now Myanmar) to India is through Imphal into Assam and after the invasion of Burma, Imphal became a focal point in the defence of India against the Japanese.
Early in 1942, as the Japanese approached Rangoon, a very large proportion of its Indian population fled from the city to India, many of them to Upper Burma and so by Chindwin tracks to Assam. In May of that year, Commonwealth forces followed the same route on their retreat to India. In their wake came still more civilian refugees, many of whom died on the arduous journey under ceaseless heavy rain, without transport and food. Of the 400,000 civilians who fled to India about 140,000 passed through Imphal into Assam.
The defence of India and the retention of a position from which Burma could be re-entered now became of primary importance. The 23rd Indian Division was formed in Manipur State, new airfields were constructed there, and army and air force reinforcements arrived. Eventually there was a considerable concentration of Commonwealth fighting forces in the Imphal area and from November 1944 onwards, No. 38 General Hospital was posted there.
Strategically well placed for attacks on the lines of communication by railway, road and river which were vital for the maintenance of all Allied operations in Burma, Imphal with its airfields was a main objective when the Japanese made their thrust towards India in the spring of 1944. There was severe fighting in the surrounding hills and on the outskirts of the plain and the Japanese succeeded in cutting a long section of the Imphal-Kohima road and holding it for over three months. The Fourteenth Army held on grimly, inflicting heavy punishment on the Japanese. Of all the battles on this frontier of India the siege of Imphal and its relief in the summer of 1944 rank next in importance to the Battle of Kohima.
There were originally some 950 burials in Imphal War Cemetery, but after hostilities had ceased, the Army Graves Service brought in graves from two smaller cemeteries in Imphal and from isolated positions in the surrounding region. The cemetery now contains 1,600 Commonwealth burials of the Second World War.
Source:
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Italy marine detained by India in 2012 back home
(28 May 2016) The second of two Italian marines detained by India in 2012 in the shooting deaths of two Indian fishermen returned home on Saturday.
Salvatore Girone was greeted by Italy's defence and foreign ministers at Ciampino airport near Rome.
Girone arrived on an Italian military flight from Abu Dhabi after first taking a commercial flight from New Delhi on Friday.
The other marine, Massimiliano Latorre, was allowed to return to Italy in 2014 after suffering a stroke while detained in India.
Girone and Latorre are accused of killing two fishermen in Indian waters while they were assigned to anti-piracy duties on an Italian commercial ship.
The two men await the decision, expected by about 2018, of an arbitration court in The Hague on whether their trial should be in Italy or in India.
Italy contends the shooting of the fishermen, allegedly mistaken for pirates, occurred in international waters and it has jurisdiction.
India insists it has jurisdiction.
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