New Catterick Memorial Commemorates Gurkhas Killed In Conflict Since 1999

Gurkha Company Catterick has unveiled a monument to commemorate Gurkhas who have died in recent conflicts.

The names of soldiers killed in operations since 1999, including in Kosovo and Afghanistan, are among those recorded on the new memorial at the Infantry Training Centre at Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire.

Gurkhas from Gurkha Company IC Catterick spent two weeks building the monument and it now stands as a symbol of respect for the comrades who did not come home and pride for those who knew them.

Captain Ram Rai, Platoon Commander, Queen's Gurkha Engineers, said he knew "half of the people" that lost their lives in the conflicts.

"I feel really really proud that at least I have done something for them," he said. 

Many of the current serving soldiers wouldn't have experienced conflicts on the scale such as those in Afghanistan and Kosovo.

The monument acts as a reminder of the sacrifice and that conflict remains out there.

Captain Tom Washington-Smith, Platoon Commander, Gurkha Company IC Catterick, said: "It's very important that every day when they walk past this memorial they get that stark reminder, no-one was expecting the war in Afghanistan.

"Servicemen gave their lives and that could happen tomorrow, next year, when they reach their regiments.

"It's very important they understand what they are getting into and what they might have to do in the future," he added. 

A bugle was played and a guard of honour lined the parade square prior to the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the memorial.

Blessings were also made. 

Major Rajeshkumar Gurung, Officer Commanding, Gurkha Company Catterick, said: "I think a man who wears a uniform, it's our duty to remember our fallen comrades."