Learning about the Gurkhas was AMAZING! These men are absolutely incredible and the British Military is as well for recruiting them! We definitely want to learn even more about them after watching this! Let us know if that is something you would like us to do with you. Thank you as always to ALL Allied Active duty and Veterans of the Military! Please click the Like button and consider subscribing to our channel if you enjoyed this episode. Thanks so much for watching everyone!

@geoffpriestley7001

Жыл бұрын

Have a look at this its filmed in the north of England probably Lancashire it shows fred dibna a local steeple Jack kzread.info/dash/bejne/fZmAmrawlMyyZbw.html

@stuartmccall5474

Жыл бұрын

Answer to your question : The Gurkhas have always been allowed to have their own unique Regiments within the British Army, manned, NCO'd and largely Officered by Gurkhas. Nowadays with modern warfare requirements you will find Gurkhas "embedded" into other units like Signals and Engineers but always identified as being a Gurkha. Any British Officer in a Gurkha Regiment must be able to speak fluent Gurkhali (Nepalese) as a mark of respect. This video says a lot which you will probably understand, kzread.info/dash/bejne/onyso7qIfJXOotI.html

@SaltimusMaximus

Жыл бұрын

Gurkha's were feared by the Japanese in WW2 who nicknamed them little devils, the Germans were not very keen on them either. Until a few years ago though they were not treated that well, they had no right to stay in the UK once they finished their service. I have a Gurkha Kukri knife at home, I would not want to face one in hand to hand combat which is something they particularly excel at. I think the rest of this documentary follows their journey to the UK where they see the sea for the first time and try fish and chips

@thetruthhurts7675

Жыл бұрын

The UK has the youngest soldiers in the world (well definitely in NATO). They can join aged 16, or 17 years old, and are now called Junior Soldiers. They still get schooling, they get apprenticeships (sometimes even degrees whilst training), and are an active part of the armed forces of the UK.

@geoffpriestley7001

Жыл бұрын

@@thetruthhurts7675 yes thats right my grandson is 17 hes going to the army trade school in Harrogate my other grandson is there has an instructor and the third is in the military police in Aldershot . certainly better than stacking shelves at Tescos

Hey Ladies. The Gurkhas are based at the Catterick army base. It's a massive base in Yorkshire. There was a huge political fight recently were our government wanted to remove retired Gurkhas from the UK post service. It was rightly defeated. The Gurkhas have as much right to stay in the UK as a UK born citizen in my eyes. They fight for the country.

@jillosler9353

Жыл бұрын

I think that was because when the initial agreement was set up and signed between Britain and Nepal their young men could train to be Gurkhas in the British Army but had to return home to help in Nepal when their term of duty was over. The Government didn't want to renege on the Terms. Fortunately that has now changed and those Gurkhas who wish to stay in the UK can do so and qualify for the same full Army pension.

@daphnethurlow5388

Жыл бұрын

Yes..totally correct..they Should be sllowed to remain in the UK..they DESERVE it..they are wonderful.people..

@Markus117d

Жыл бұрын

@@jillosler9353 Exactly, Nepal wouldn't want their people to leave and never come back. There must have been some renegotiation between the UK & Nepal. Because the very first item listed in the Britain / India / Nepal Tripartite Agreement reads = The Gurkha soldier must be recruited as a Nepali citizen, must serve as a Nepali citizen, and must be resettled as a Nepali citizen.

@denisrobertmay875

Жыл бұрын

Much more complicated than that. Originally Gurkha's served in the British Indian Army, with Indian Independence the Gurkhas continued to serve in both nations forces (and still do) with an agreement that their retirement pensions would be equal. With regard to citizenship the disparity grew up that as they were Nepali Nationals thereby not Commonwealth citizens they (or their Dependents) did not qualify for British Nationality in the same time as say Fijian, Nigerian or South Africans ( Commonwealth Citizens made 6-10% of the Armed Forces, Two years residence in UK was required) this was compounded by the fact that, until recently, most Gurkhas (and their Dependents) served outside the UK, (HongKong, Germany, Brunei and Singapore). For example one of my Gurkha's acquaintances was about 14years in the Regiment but had not been in the UK until seriously injured in Afghanistan. He was invalided out and lived in the UK from then keeping his Nepali Citizenship with Leave to Remain (He is after all a proud Nepali). His adult children had difficulties as they were Nepal/Brunei citizens ( I think).

@andy70d35

Жыл бұрын

The Gurkhas have more right to be in the UK than any scum coming in on boats from France, BTW France is not an oppressive country.

A joke that appeared during the Falklands War: An Argentine unit was constantly being taunted by a lone Gurkha, across the valley from them. Exasperated, the commander sent a squad of his troops to silence the impudent soldier. After several minutes of silence, a single, heavily bloodied, Argentine soldier staggered back across his lines with the report "It's a trap, sir. There's TWO of them!"

@fayesouthall6604

Жыл бұрын

Brilliant

@OnASeasideMission

Жыл бұрын

Dammo du! Heard that one a long time before the Falklands. This Roman Legion was invading Wales, see, and.... No disrespect to the Gurkhas. Ever.

@ilkkll5210

Жыл бұрын

That's hillarious

@peterrandall9359

Жыл бұрын

love the story but it could apply to a few of the British army groups

@mickmacgonigle5021

Жыл бұрын

Old joke

Any soldier that has encountered the Ghurkas is an admirer and has huge respect for them. My brother was NZ Infantry stationed in Singapore and did exercises with Ghurkas and he was blown away by them. He was gifted a kukri by one of the soldiers.

@MrChristbait

3 ай бұрын

That's an honour!

The Ghurkas mean so much to us Brits but consecutive governments have treated them appallingly. My brother is an officer in the Ghurka Rifles and adores them.

There is a famous quote, (the source of which is debated), which states: “If a man says he is not afraid of dying, he is either lying or is a Gurkha.” These are fearsome warriors, any online search will bring up stories of incredibly heroic actions by Gurkhas. Yet, if you meet them, they are incredibly polite and humble, you just really don’t want to be their enemy in battle. The British are proud to have them on our side, and long May it continue.

@brianwhittington5086

Жыл бұрын

There have been reports of enemy units surrendering rather than take on the fearsome Gurkha regiment.

@Durgesuth

Жыл бұрын

I watched a documentary on the Gurkhas years ago…. How they raided a village occupied by enemy forces…. A Gurkha hid by a window outside a house and one of the enemy put his head out the window… The Gurkha cut his head off with the kukri knife in one swipe…. In the Falklands Argentinian prisoners were told that if a Gurkha soldier smiled at you….. it meant they wanted to eat you Gurkhas look happy little chaps. But have a ferocious fighting spirit

@clayhead12000

Жыл бұрын

@@brianwhittington5086 Apparently many Argentinians did in the Falklands.

@thetruthhurts7675

Жыл бұрын

Field Marshall Sam Makenshaw, Military Cross, is the person who said this. He died in 2008, and was during the India/Pakistan war The Chief of the Genera staff of the Indian army.

@brianwhittington5086

Жыл бұрын

@clayhead12000 Yes, and that's not the first time. 👍

The British people love and Gurkhas. Thanks to the work of Joanna Lumley, they receive a full army pension.

@ianprince1698

Жыл бұрын

lookup Joanna Lumley for background. Go for Saturday

@cynic7049

Жыл бұрын

Daughter of Gurkha corps Major James Lumley.

@andrew_koala2974

Жыл бұрын

It is ARMY and not army Make sure you get it right Either you don't pay attention to detail or you are mentally lazy or both of the above There is a distinct difference between ARMY an Army NAVY and Navy AIR FORCE and Air Force Now explain what the differences are. Having served in the military for 30 years and serving three countries - UK AU US - I know what the differences are. Also what is the name of the Beach in Sierra Leone And it's not 'China Beach' That was a US TV production starring Dana Delaney (Name that is both Polish and Irish)

@petersmith4423

Жыл бұрын

But the Government reduced it again a couple of years later.

@deniseadams1703

Жыл бұрын

@@petersmith4423 I didn’t know this. Absolutely disgusting!

About 33 years ago I was working for the British Council in Bangkok. I had recently had a daughter and arranged for my mum to come over. I got an invitation to an Embassy party where the security was Ghurka. My mum fought in WW2 (driver) and was stunned at meeting Ghurkhas. She snatched my infant daughter from my arms and handed over to a Sergeant and took a photo. She said, ""Now you have been held by a real man." And I'm like "Mum, I'm standing right here".

We Brits love and respect our Gurkhas.

My next door neighbours are a Gurkha family from Nepal. They are hard working, family oriented people. When they moved in, they knocked my door to say they were having a family party, sorry in advance for the noise. I said, absolutely no problem and mentioned the lovely cooking smells coming from their kitchen. An hour later 3 clipped boxes of Nepalese food arrived, hot and tasty. Every time they party or barbecue they send us food. Incredible people!

@lyndseythomson6262

Жыл бұрын

So jealous I bet it tastes amazing

@antonm1834

Жыл бұрын

best thing ever when youve got great neighbours

@sonurajbhandari3347

Жыл бұрын

Sharing food with a neighbor is normal Nepali culture.

@matthewcullen1298

Жыл бұрын

​@@sonurajbhandari3347 that's fantastic and how it should be.😊we share the meat we smoked with our neighbours and they have come over with a big bag of home grown bananas and mandarins .the Nepalese I have met have been lovely people ,a family who shared food with me when I was working on their unit fixing up a heap of maintenance issues. Their little girl was so shy but after a while she used to smile and say hello. They were just a really lovely family. The husband worked at an old people's home as an aged care worker/nurse. He said the best part was how lovely the old people were and how they would tell him amazing stories of their lives. I bet the old people loved him too. Greetings from Australia.😊

@paulsutherland3806

Ай бұрын

My Dad was an Officer in the Army the Gurkas Amazing Brave loyal Soldiers! ❤

26 ghurkas have been awarded the Victoria cross for gallantry. Only 1358 Victoria crosses have ever been awarded.

My grandfather trained the Gurkhas during WWI. The stories about their bravery and stealth are legendary. It is said a Gurkha can be right beside you and you wouldn't know. My favourite story is a group of Gurkhas having a briefing and told they were going to be dropped from 3000ft over the enemy lines. They got together muttering and one went to the officer and asked if they could be dropped from 300ft. When told it was too low as their parachutes would not open, the reply was "oh, we are using parachutes, ok". Fearless and the UK loves them

@stephencread

Жыл бұрын

Many people thought that story was just a myth- my friend is a retired Brigadier who served with the Gurkhas and he confirmed the story IS true and it was his friend who was the officer giving that briefing: The truly GLORIOUS Gurkhas!

@andrewobrien6671

Жыл бұрын

@@stephencread Wait until they hear about feeling the legs of passing troops. I was told by my mother they were feeling for puttees, but a soldier I knew said they were feeling how the bootlaces were done up, as the British did them differently with a knot in the lace

@ram.ram.saryane8121

Жыл бұрын

MY MOTHER IS FROM NEPALI GORKHA FAMILY , THE FAMILY MEMBERS WORK IN INDIAN ARMY GORKHAS REGIMENT FIGHT WITH PAKISTAN AND CHINESE ARMY FEARLESSLY JAI MAA KALI AAYO GORKHALI🙏🙏🕉🕉💪💪🔥🔥

@markoconnell2458

25 күн бұрын

​@@andrewobrien6671 I'VE also heard that about the bootlaces

One of the scariest things you can meet on a battlefield is a little man with a big smile and an even bigger knife. One of the most respected and feared regiments in the British army.

@12dougreed

3 ай бұрын

How do you know. Maybe from free fire?

My father served with the Gurkhas and had the utmost respect for them. They were greatly feared by the enemy! 🇬🇧

@faithpearlgenied-a5517

Жыл бұрын

@@CryMore17 This is a You Tube comment section, people don't need to be asked something to make a comment on here. Have you ever used the Internet before or are you just a c unt?

@jasetheace71

Жыл бұрын

Yes mate.....Nice one 👍

@colrhodes377

Жыл бұрын

Your father was obviously a good man. Anyone to serve with our Gurkha friends must be been decent and honorable

When I was a very small boy, my parents took me to an open day at Bassingbourne Barracks, Cambridgeshire. The Ghurkas were there with an exhibition, we stopped to talk to them, I can't remember precisely what was said but I do remember these guys being so friendly to me, a small boy with a million questions, patiently explaining everything. Later in the day, I enevtably wandered off and separated from my parents. The first thing that came to me was find these guys who were kind to me, I found the Ghurkas, they looked after me while one went off to find my parents, they gave me a drink and a packet of crisps until my parents turned up. I just knew I'd be safe with them. That was over fifty years ago but it's still so fresh in my memory.

@markhosbrough9180

Жыл бұрын

Bassingbourn was my training depot when I joined the British army royal regiment of fusiliers

@orwellboy1958

Жыл бұрын

@@markhosbrough9180 when was that, Mark. I lived in a small village near Bassingbourne until 1979, I went to school at Bassingbourne village college until 1975 and went drinking with a few squaddies from the barracks but I think they were the Royal Anglian Regiment.

@markhosbrough9180

Жыл бұрын

@@orwellboy1958 I was there 1984

@orwellboy1958

Жыл бұрын

@@markhosbrough9180 ah, I would have missed you, then. When I was born it was RAF Bassingbourne.

@tommoncrieff1154

Жыл бұрын

Love this story.

"Bravest of the brave, most generous of the generous. Never had country more faithful friends than you"

We are so proud of the Gurkha in the UK and The Kukri knife is something to behold 🇬🇧🇬🇧

@karenclover4948

Жыл бұрын

My father was presented one when he finished his tour of Hong Kong in 1969

I'm a Royal Marine veteran. In answer to your question, the guys from Nepal can't join the Royal Marines directly, however they can join Commando Forces by passing the All Arms Commando Course (the course open to all members of the British Armed Forces outside of the Royal Marines). I served alongside the Gurkhas on a couple of occasions and I can't explain well enough how deep my respect for them goes. They are superb soldiers and wonderful people. The MOD needs to form a Gurkha Commando unit now!

@robertmorrison1711

Жыл бұрын

Yes agree with you need R.M.commando unit as they already in the airborne unit ...

My grandad fought alongside the Gurkha's in Burma in WWII and had nothing but praise for them.

@chriscjad

Жыл бұрын

My Grandad also fought alongside the Gurkhas in Burma in WW2. He was RAF intelligence and had some amazing photos of that time!

@issachunt3418

Жыл бұрын

Mine too. He was honoured by the Burma Star association at his funeral in 2002. They placed the Union flag on his coffin and played the last post in church. Very moving.

@w0033944

Жыл бұрын

Same with mine. He said he was glad to be fighting alongside them rather than against them.

@topchelseagirl9074

Жыл бұрын

My Grandad too!

@mikefraser4513

Жыл бұрын

With their 13 Victoria Crosses and numerous other bravery awards it was disgusting that they had to wait so long until they could apply for British Citizenship. The UK Home Secretary announced on 21 May 2009 that all former Gurkhas who have served in the British Army for at least four years will now be eligible for settlement in the United Kingdom.Very late.

I served with 6th Queen Elisabeth’s Gurkha Rifles and had the privilege of recruiting in Nepal in 1973. As a former officer all I can say is that they are without doubt the finest people I have ever worked with and despite the fact that many people think that they are some form of special forces, they are not. They just happen to be the finest infantry in the world. A lot of the candidates who fail selection actually join the Indian army and have a fine record there as well. And,there are Gurkhas in the SAS and the SBS. I really appreciate your comments ladies. ❤️❤️

@MrJoegurung

5 ай бұрын

Sir, my father was attached to the 6th Gurkhas for the longest period of his tenure as Headmaster of the Gurkha Childrens School. His name was Gopal Singh Gurung. Although after he was attached to the 2/2 Gurkha Battalion while in Hong Kong, most of his memories have always been of the 6th Gurkhas. Sadly, he passed away on 4th December 2023 at the ripe age of 94.

@shaunrogers2256

12 күн бұрын

Respect sir ​@@MrJoegurung

On a ship down the Falklands in 93, we played football against them then invited them back to the ship for beer, without a doubt, the nicest bunch of guys we ever met from the British Army, just so humble, despite that fact they were so tough.

@colin7879

Жыл бұрын

I can only imagine what a drunken fhurka fight would look like amongst themselves. I mean, it must happen occasionally surely? Absolutely carnage.

The Gurkhas. Greatest warriors the world has ever known!

@smythharris2635

Жыл бұрын

Possibly in the modern era, but the Spartans would like to stake a claim, I'm sure.

@Chris66able

Жыл бұрын

@@smythharris2635 The Spartans were not actually that good, if you bother to look up the history of Greece.

@barblessable

Ай бұрын

@@smythharris2635 MONGOLS ,Ghengis Kahn

I am an ex New Zealand Soldier. I have met and worked with Gurkhas. I can only say that I have the greatest respect for them. And I mean no SH.T. If you are in combat....you got some Gurkhas close,,,,yer good to go.

I had 2 son's who were stationed at Catterick Barracks, and I met with some Gurkhas when I went to my visit my son's. They were extremely respectful to my Wife and myself, even though we gave them our real names they insisted on calling us Ma'am and Sir when we talked and I have the utmost respect for these guys. I just wished we had more of them in the British Army.

As a soldiers daughter I spent a large part of my early life in Catterick. I was also in Singapore as a teenager where some school mates were Gurkha children. When ever I go back to visit Catterick, to see the young trainee Gurkhas walking around together is wonderful. They are so smart and proud that they are here. Every one we come across recognises that my husband is an ex soldier and always salute him and call him sir.

There isn’t a person who has been or is a member of the British Army who doesn’t have the utmost respect for The Gurkhas. The world should know of these amazing, totally fearless soldiers. God bless every past and present Gurkha.

The Gurkhas really are a breed apart. They are so keen and attentive to instruction, that the army does not employ the usual method of breaking men to reform them into soldiers as they do with us great unwashed. They are never shouted at and only given instruction and direction... as that is always enough to ensure adherence. I had a new gas boiler fitted last year and I noted the name on his van was Gurung. I quizzed him and sure enough he was a ex Gurkha. We talked for a long time and when he left, I felt the urge to hug him, but that would have been weird so we parted with a handshake! :)

@TheNatashaDebbieShow

Жыл бұрын

We would have just hugged him anyway

My dad was a Major in the Gurkhas in WW2, fighting in Myanmar. He only ever mentioned some King Cobra snakes and what good men he was with. The first photo of me as a baby was with some Gurkha soldiers at our home. Gurkhas carried his coffin at his funeral in 2008. Very humble people. I have his Kukri knife and the sword of a Japanese officer.

Many years ago I was working on the roofs of the military buildings in Warminster. On the way to work we passed the Gurkhas camp at Hook. It was first thing in the morning and freezing, the Gurkhas were just setting out on a full kit run. As usual they all waved and had big smiles on their faces. After a full days work on the roof in sub zero temperatures, we headed home. We couldn't believe it, we saw them running back into Hook camp, still waving to us with big smiles on their faces.

From Australia: My father recounted a story from WWII that his uncle had told him. Uncle Bob was in the desert campaign in North Africa, and was in Tobruk during the siege. He was on sentry duty one night, in a forward position on high alert, when a hand was placed over his mouth from behind, a knife was at his throat, and a voice breathed “Ssshhh” in his ear. The hand moved to his collar badge, the voice whispered, “Ah, Aussie. Good,” and then there was silence. Uncle Bob stayed frozen for a time, until he finally realised that he was alone again. Uncle Bob had not seen the Gurkha, and had only heard what the Gurkha had wanted him to. The Aussies classed the Gurkhas as incredibly brave, fearless and absolutely noiseless. The respect also partly arose from being told that they were paid one shilling for every enemy they killed, which they proved when they presented the enemy’s right ear.

@smythharris2635

Жыл бұрын

This is correct our old local bus driver served in Burma and told us that the Japanese were terrified of them. Imagine being last man in a single file jungle patrol. You'd be kakkin your pampers.

@davidshattock9522

Жыл бұрын

Old expression.i said to someone who had been stalked and supprise d ea rly morning by an ex ghurka .whilst doing an out of hours job for the company director

@davidshattock9522

Жыл бұрын

Expression was the ability to cross a bakers floor and not leave a footprint in the flour ,let alone a noise.

@tonyves

Жыл бұрын

Blimey!

@glenchapman3899

Жыл бұрын

My uncle who served in New Guinea tells a similar story. His encounter was wordless. Just a simple pat on the solider after checking his collar. I have also heard second hand stories of Ghurkhas checking shoe laces in similar situations.

My Dad served in the British Army , it was his career and life. , I remember going to the Military dances with mum and dad and seeing the Gurkhas and being so and amazed by their discipline, . But mostly so proud to have them on our side ,. My Dad had much respect and honour for them ,

25kg of sand = 55 pounds. I once met a group of Gurkhas who were training. They are only little guys, and they picked up their fully loaded packs. When they turned around, each of the packs looked as if it had grown a pair of legs. No one laughed, because we all had great respect for them. The Gurkhas are humble - they are all incredibly skillful, and are the best. They know they have nothing to prove.

My Dad was in Coldstream Guards before and during WW2. He said they were among the bravest men he knew. They always serve in the army and always march double time, always👍

I am from Scotland and when I was younger, dad was in the army and made friends with some Gurkha's. They became part of our family and were always so polite. Dad and all of his crew had nothing but the highest respect for the Gurkha's and I was always told they always had the soldier back. I think they are all amazing.

The Gurkhas are held in such high esteem here in UK. They are exemplary soldiers of incredible courage and discipline and have been deployed in every major conflict since the unit was established. As many have stated here, they are so incredibly polite and courteous in manner, but still some of the most ferocious warriors in the world. We are proud and honoured to have these fine gentlemen defending our islands. In battle, if you want to know where the Gurkhas are, look to where the fighting is thickest.

The Gurkhas are hugely admired and respected throughout the Commonweakth and beyond. Very pleased you have started to learn about them.

Dear Natasha and Debbie. You have touched on a subject very dear to my heart. My late father served with Gurkhas. He said they had the courage of Hercules and a loyalty unsurpassed. They truly are "the best of the best". As a country , we have had our a**ses saved more times than counting by the incredible Gurkhas.

I live in Darlington in the North East of England. We're the closest large town to Catterick Garrison where these lads do their training. On their days off, they come to my home town to have a day out. These guys are so polite and awesome. They are always immaculately turned out in their civvy gear. Needless to say they get a lot of looks from the local lasses! We're so proud to have these amazing soldiers in our army.

@susanlee5508

3 ай бұрын

They are girl magnets. ❤

“Bravest of the brave, most generous of the generous, never had country more faithful friends than you”. Sir Ralph Turner (Former Gurkha officer)

@petehall889

Жыл бұрын

Absolutely correct - they are splendid chaps and deserve our greatest respect.

It really changes their families' lives. The family could be the poorest in the area, but if your son becomes a Gurkha. You have respect. It's also a massive change in financial terms for these families. Children can finally go to school and the next generations can escape the poverty trap. Huge respect to these guys. I've only ever met a couple and believe me, you would never know. The don't brag, they are a humble but fearsome enemy. Super proud of them all.

My husband was in the British army for 20 years and he had the most respect for the Gurkhas, I would go as far to say that everyone has respect for them. We were stationed twice in Catterick Garrison and saw them in action while training.

The Gurkhas do get massive love and respect from the UK and rightly so. I was getting a bit emotional watching that ❤

@lindagarczynski2415

Жыл бұрын

Me too.

A mate of mine was in the RE. After Sandhurst his first posting was with the Gurkha Engineers. His first day he walked into the office to find his boots on his desk, absolutely shining. Sneaky bastards had managed to nick them and give them a glow. Do not go up against these guys.

Worked alongside these warriors, modest men yet fierce and unwavering in Battle.

I worked on a military base years ago.. And we had loads of different company's staying for a Royal parade as i opened the shutters to cafe, some of the parachute regiment were wating massive guys, playing up and messing around... Then the Gurkas came in, silence, the Paras got there stuff and sat down quietly... The Gurkas were respected greatly and were very respectful

In the UK, if there is a parade of various Regiments, the Gurkhas ALWAYS get the biggest cheer. 😃👍👍👍 Watch the second part of this where they go out into the community. They visit Richmond in North Yorkshire (the one that all the other Richmonds are named after, either directly or indirectly) where I grew up and Darlington in County Durham which is not far away and were I lived for twenty years. 😃

I worked with an ex Gurkha when I was doing security work at Oxford university. He was such a kind polite man with a great sense of humour. He understood the British tendency to take the piss out of each other. I always felt like he had my back and we had a great respect for each other. He was a great friend. ✌️♥️🇬🇧

My grandfather used to train Gurkhas, he spoke very highly of his men ❤

R.I.P to all the vet's, respect 💪🇬🇧🇺🇲🥰

The badge is not crossed swords but crossed kukris which is a knife the Nepalese use It has its own mythology and is taken very seriously by the Gurkha’s each soldier is issued one and the story goes when the knife is removed from the scabbard it must taste blood so there is a small knife which is part of the scabbard where the soldier can cut himself and place blood on the blade

@terencejay8845

Жыл бұрын

That's part of the myth. There's no requirement to cut yourself if you take out your Kukri. Too much danger of infection in the field, for one.

@michaelibbotson1272

Жыл бұрын

The small notch at the base of the blade is to stop blood from trickling down to the handle

I have a family connection with the Gurkhas and have been to Nepal a couple of times - Their knives which you see crossed as their emblem is called a Khukri - multi- purpose - from cutting down a tree to skinning a goat - The must famous Gurkha alive is known as VC Sahib - He got the Victoria Cross - which is the highest medal awarded for bravery for an insane action in WW2. There is a very interesting documentary about the Victoria Cross which I'm sure you would love to watch - Your man in Hong Kong - Edward

@margaretoconnor3687

Жыл бұрын

I lived in HK in the 70d and 80s and then retiring Gurkhas would go to the Kadoorie Experimental Farm in the New Territories to learn hill farming techniques before returning to Nepal . That must have ended in 1997

@sarahealey1780

Жыл бұрын

Hey Hong Kong elcome to the family xx

@charlieeckert4321

Жыл бұрын

He is right. It is about an hour long, so you may need to do a multiple part reaction. It is the hardest medal to earn in the world. (Only 10 percent of recipients survive the action that earn them the medal.)

@tonys1636

Жыл бұрын

I've heard said that the Regiment has had more members awarded the VC and GC (when on peacekeeping duties) than any other Regiment in the British Army.

@9422655

Жыл бұрын

@@margaretoconnor3687 Ohh... still have a fresh memory of Tai Mo Shan Hill. 🙂

I’ve met a Gurkha as I am a cadet and he would walk up behind people, completely silent, and just hug them. Their stealth and skill at creeping up on people is insane. They also used to cut the enemies boot laces so that, when they realised, they knew how close they were to being killed

My dad was in the tank regiment in the 2nd world war he was in Italy and north Africa the gurkhas fought alongside my dad he couldn't praise them enough.

I live not far from the Gurkha Barracks and some Gurkha families live very near me. They are incredibly humble people and for me it is a delight and honour to have them living here with us in the UK. The UK Government only granted them a right to apply for citizenship in 2004 after a lengthy battle though which shows how little the government thought of them.

@NeckasFBIAgent

Жыл бұрын

Nepal wanted to repatriate their finest after service so it was written in contract However that has been changed and they are free to settle in the UK

@tonyves

Жыл бұрын

Absolutely. They fought and died for us and the UK gov (who never did either) told us they weren't worthy!

@colinelliott5629

Жыл бұрын

To be fair, on Indian independence, all Gurkha units were within the Indian Army, but the British and Indian governments agreed to split off some into the British army, and that the rates of pay should remain comparable, which of course also provided a financial reason for recruitment to continue. As immigration controls increased, Nepalese never acquired the right of British citizenship. Times have changed, but as usual, the British government policy changed even more slowly, and the average politician and civil servant isn't pro-armed forces. The rest of us respect these soldiers enormously. They are truly remarkable.

Watch them arriving in the uk it’s fantastic. Huge respect to the Gurkhas and thank you from the UK 💪🏻

@fayesouthall6604

Жыл бұрын

Absolutely right. They are fantastic 😊

Hiya NAT and Debs,if you were to look back at Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth's funeral, these extremely proud men were there as a main part of the procession.

I served in the Falklands 3 para, fighting alongside the gurkhas. Had many friends who were gurkhas. Greatest warriors on the planet. Marines paras and special forces hold them in the highest regard. Fact.

I'm British army born and bred, grew up in Aldershot military town, nothing but respect for these guys 👌

@iczero1224

Жыл бұрын

I grew up in Aldershot as well, my dad was an MP in the British army and actually did some work with Gurkhas, he always said the where the best of the British armed forces, met many of them over there years, they are the bravest, most polite and respectful people I have ever met

@rosalynadams3758

Жыл бұрын

I was born in Aldershot and now live in Farnborough though I don't have a military connection.

@brucebartup6161

Жыл бұрын

@@iczero1224 Perhaps you ca confirm or refute a story from an RAMC Major I met while I was a Cardiac Technician. Back in the late 7's. He said he or a colleague had looked in detail at the medical results of every fracas with local civilians and UK forces members. The Gurkhas very rarely were involved. Statistically much less interpersonally violent that average British troops. But, when a Gurkha was involved there was a high incidence of a notable "wound of defence". This wound was to the non-Gurkha and consisted of a split. between the webbing separating two fingers at the base through the wrist, between the bones of the fore arm and extending to the elbow. I was tpld it is tjh wound sustaine byu a taller man who seeingh a kukri on it's way t fi face instrinctivrely, by reflex throws out a hand to ward off the blow. Do you think that is just a "Gurkha story" made to embellish the brand? Or did your dad ever have to deal which a situation in which a civilian got injured in this way?

@gozewstuffnthings5837

Жыл бұрын

Man, napaldershit was a good crack. Sitting in the pubs on the strip watching them fighting each other.. mad times. Great guys to be around and on tour with!

@StuartMcArdle

Жыл бұрын

I grew up around the corner from Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Church Crookham. Now a housing estate but the road names are all associated with the Gurkhas and I believe there are statues to pay respects.

My father fought in WW2 (Royal Signals) and until his death every month he gave to Gurkha Support, never told us why (I think that was deliberate) but ultimate respect to the men of the Gurkha Regiment and thank you for your service to our country.

@artistjoh

Жыл бұрын

I hope you continue your father's respect. It is very likely he was alive because of a Gurkha.

I knew a British Army major; told me a story about him as a young officer leading Gurkhas. You have to lead from the front, he said, if you want their respect. You don’t send these men - you have to lead them. So, one exercise, he was leading an assault on an enemy position. Everyone sprang out of the trenches and rushed towards the enemy position. He’s 6’ 2”, and was making good progress, as you would. But he learned he needed to pay attention to pacing - they’ll run all day, but their legs tended to be shorter (well, 6’2”: so are just about everyones’!). He had nothing but respect and admiration for them. Calling them mercenaries is utterly disrespectful. Their head of state is (was) the Queen, so they’re Commonwealth volunteer forces, at worst, contractors. Mercenaries are someone with only monetary connection, nothing more.

These lads do our country proud and we are proud of them.

The Gurkhas arrive at Manchester Airport and travel to Catterick, which is a garrison town in Yorkshire. This is where they'll do all of their training. Anyone can join HM Forces, but they have to have lived in the UK for 2 years and have someone to sponsor them into the military. However, ONLY the Nepalese can join the Gurkhas. Many Gurkhas serve for about 14 years and then they can either leave or transfer to a different branch of the military. I personally worked with quite a few who transferred to the Queen Alexandra's Royal Army Nursing Corps as either student nurses or healthcare assistants. They are fierce warriors but also very caring people and they do very well in the Army Medical Services in general.

The first time I ever personally met British Army Gurkhas was over a decade ago when I played Airsoft for a weekend at the FIBUA (fighting in built up areas) training village at Catterick garrison. When leaving, we stopped in at a pub either just on or just off the camp. My Dad had been in the Paras and was always super respectful of the Gurkhas. I grew up in New Zealand, and many of my older male relatives had served in the NZ army in WWII, who also spoke of Gurkhas with respect. The ones I met were all off duty and super smart in civilian clothes, the general style seemed to be blazers and trousers with knife sharp creases and kukhri patterned ties. They were all quiet and polite and even tolerated us civilian numpties hanging around them. (I think it helped that we bought them beer.) I remember thinking what a privilege it would be to have these guys as neighbours, compared to some of the entitled young people I had been around in Manchester. Go For Saturday!

Where I worked as a driver before retirement was for a UK supermarket. The majority of the security force were Gurkhas. Very slight of build, with childlike hands. The nicest people you could wish to meet. In battle, though, they are fearsome. Stories have been told of enemy heads being removed with a single Kukri swipe. There would be mass protests here if any UK government tried to disband them.

They are very proud and awesome soldiers. I was honoured to be in the British army and got to know some of these lads. I now live in a town that is half Nepalese and half British, and it is wonderful. The Gurkha regiments are special forces in their own right. Nowadays, and as the UK has a growing population, indeed Nepalese can apply for any regiment/corps. Great to watch, and thank you ladies. Will now watch out for more of your podcasts. Take care.

The Gurkhas always turn up at our rememberence service every year my grandchildren always have their picture taken with them they are so humble and so proud to serve our country the most feared regiment in the world thank you girls take care sending love from England x x

I remember once coming back Sennybridge and the vehicle I was driving broke down, the guy who was behind me headed back to depot to arrange recovery and as I was waiting a Land Rover full of Ghurkas stopped and one of them asked if I needed help. I thanked them and told them recovery was on the way however they refused to leave until they were certain that help was coming. Great guys.

@martinsmith6049

Жыл бұрын

On Junior Brecon course it was freezing at Dixies Corner and I heard a Landrover badly turning over... it was our DS enemy. I'd been in Bos in winter and soon stated it going, then asked him where the DS were. All in Brecon on piss, he said. What time they back, fellah? Nine am, I'm picking them up. A good night's sleep with no stags for two sections.... thanks Johny!

I have so much RESPECT for you both, I am 22 year Veteran of the British Army. I was so lucky to come across your channel, thank you for all your respect this is reciprocated my end massively.

I have a friend who is in the Australian SAS and he’s trained with Gurkhas and he has so much respect for them some of the hardest fighters in the world and extremely humble people

We had 4 gurkhas attached to my unit in kosovo in 1999, they were some of the best and hardest working squaddies I've ever had the pleasure to serve with. I remember their corporal said one day that they'd make the dinner that night. Off he went and 2 hours later he came back with a giant bag of spuds and 3 live chickens 😁 never had such a tasty meal in all my life. Namaste to you corporal Rai

Many years ago an Indian friend from northern India told me that I believe twice a year two to four pensioned Gurkhas would come down from the mountains with donkeys to receive and take back the "pensioned Gurkhas pension money " he said that in the 100 / 150 years they have never been robbed !!! I wonder why !!!!

The Gurkha's are legendary and are held in high esteem and awe in the UK by the military and the public.

Morning Guys. When i was in the Resurves, i was doing my training in the UK. The Gurka's were there, and they blew us away. RESPECT.

Go Saturday! Also, when you watched the Queen’s funeral you would have seen the Ghurkhas leading the entire procession of massed bagpipes bands. They have the honour of being first in line there.

@colin7879

Жыл бұрын

I did not know that but that's actually really cool

For Nat & Debbie: They PRs carried 25kg (55 lbs) of sand, not 25 lbs. Also my uncle trained Gurkhas in the late 60s when he was stationed at the British Army Jungle Training School in Johore Bahru, Malaysia. He had nothing but respect and admiration for Gurkha soldiers, and he knew the ups and downs of military life as he was a POW of the Chinese for 2.5 years during the Korean War. He was captured after hand to hand combat at the Gloucestershire Regiment's engagement in the Battle of Solma-Ri at Imjin River. He received the US Presidential Regimental citation. BTW, the "sword" on the Gurkha's dress ties are actually a large curved knife called a Kukri, a traditional Nepalese weapon. My uncle gave me a British Army issue Kukri as a gift when I was young when he visited my family in Australia, on furlough from the Jungle Training school.

@alangauld6079

Жыл бұрын

Same here, my uncle was in the Argylls and was gifted a Kukri which he eventually passed on to me. I used to take it with me into the woods, a fearsome knife. But I don't think the police would have been impressed if they stopped me - it was razor sharp and definitely "an offensive weapon"! But as a youngster, it was just a really cool knife... Later it became an ornament and hung on the wall.

@clairemcsorley

8 ай бұрын

My grandfather trained Gurkhas at the same place and time as your uncle

The Gurkhas they’re real bad asses. They are small but incredibly deadly and brave. In uniform they look like highly disciplined, polite school boys. However on the battlefield they are ferocious. Imagine a incredibly vicious breed of dog. Now imagine that dog is incredibly well trained and disciplined. But once given the order it will relentlessly attack its enemy, ripping it to shreds, without fear, without compassion, without remorse. A 5ft 4 inch powerhouse that can and has literally used its teeth to tear the throat out of a 6ft plus 250lb enemy and will not stop unless you kill them or they have been ordered to stop. That’s the Gurkhas. They are literally the most respected and lovable killing machines.

I remember well, when l was in training. Where we had the honour, not just to train alongside these warriors. But to learn, and enquire skills from them. They're remarkable and honourable soldiers, in every way possible. Just to be in their presence is something l will never forget. Great video ladies. Respect to you. Faugh-a-Ballagh.

They, quite rightly as they are fighting for us, have the right to settle in the UK afterward and tons live locally to me. They have such a positive impact to the local community it's amazing to see. They all set up loads of businesses, too. I work supporting businesses and helped out an ex-Gurkha set a tea business from tea grown in Nepal which in turn means he has boosted his boyhood village's economy to the point where everyone is relatively rich there compared to others in Nepal. They are all so nice. Also they quite often become our local security guards for businesses and shops afterwards so it means we have super hardcore security round here, lol.

@fayesouthall6604

Жыл бұрын

That’s brilliant. They are hard working and family oriented. 😊

@petergordon4525

Жыл бұрын

Only quite recently had automatic right to settle here, thanks to Johanna Lumley.

It is 40 years since I was lucky enough as a Brit to visit Nepal. The Nepalese are the loveliest people I ever met.

Gurkhas, the best of friends, the worst of enemies... It's true and everyone acknowledges it.

Good morning ladies from frosty South Wales,I believe there are at least two more parts to this documentary.It follows the recruits through the training process.

I'd love to see more videos on the Gurkhas, my grandad who was a warrant officer in the army always talked about how formidable and respected they were.

Lovely and fascinating video , thank you ladies. As a Brit I have huge respect for members of the Armed Forces but the Gurkhas deserve special praise. They are hugely respected by the British people .

Served in Malaya/ Borneo, glad to have these fierce little men to watch our backs

Back in 1982 the British Army deliberately put out false signals to the Argentines that they were going to send in the Gurkha's to Port Stanley to finish the Falklands War. Although they didn't it would have helped the Argentines to make their decision to surrender.

Remember this is only selection tests. For even the 4% of the 10,000 they to still have to complete training in the UK - some will not make it. Oh, and they can run a amazing field kitchen, as I once discovered.

Thank you ladies for covering this! The Gurkhas really are loved and admired here in the UK. As usual you cover the topic with great interest and respect! I love this channel ❤

At that point when the new recruiter was talking, and you two were saying how sweet and humble he is; Absolutely, but what I love about these beauties as that they are also elite level (and terrifying) forces. What a combination!

When I used to be a bus driver, there were 4 ex Ghurkas in our garage. They were the nicest people you ever could meet. So humble, yet you knew never to cross them or get on their bad side!

I was in the Royal Air Force, based in Saudi with a small Gurkha signals attachment, they were responsible for all of the ground comms equipment. When they say ‘you make a friend with a Gurkha, you make a friend for life’ they’re not kidding. Lovely guys, hard working, dedicated and incredibly polite. When the Khobar (where we were based) bomb went off, targeting one of the American buildings, the Gurkha Sergeant (who happened to be jogging at the time) was one of the 1st on the scene, helping the American soldiers without a thought for his own safety. Awesome show ladies.

The Gurkhas are an elite regiment, no matter what environment they fight in they win. They have a strong bond with the british army and we are lucky and proud to have them fight alongside us. There is no better soldier to have beside you.

I live near an army camp and if I am out walking my dog , even if it’s pouring down and a gale force wind they are immaculate and you always get a Good Morning Ma’am , even though I look like a soggy mess , absolute warriors but polite and gentlemen. Yes they train in Yorkshire there is a huge training camp there Catterick

I've seen them in Catterick a few times parade with their knifes, all 400 moving at exactly the same time. We see them often at middlesbrough football club too. What is not clear on the video is how small most of them are. There are more videos on forces TV about their socialisation and training. They even go to whitby to have fish and chips.

@fayesouthall6604

Жыл бұрын

Low centre of gravity 😊

The fact that the Brits were impressed by their enemy, post war invited them to join the British Army is the most shrewd move ever. So very impressed by the Brits.

Great video as usual ladies. I’m so glad that you learned about the Gurkha Regiment. Friend of mine was an officer in Afghan conflict. He had a Gurkha as his protection. One night as my friend was leaving the showers a mortar attack came in. The Gurkha threw my friend into the roadside ditch and placed himself on top of my friend. A mortar landing near by showered them with sand and rock. When they stood up my friend (who was damp from the shower at the time) was covered in dust stuck to him. He had to go back and shower again and the Gurkha was really worried because he felt responsible for him having to shower twice - even though he just saved my friends life. 😂 Couple of interesting points about Gurkha Regt; The badge you mentioned is crossed knifes. The Nepalese knife is a Kukri, a curved long blade. Tradition (or myth) was that the blade couldn’t be sheathed once drawn without drawing blood. So Gurkhas have multiple scars on fingers from having to cut themselves before putting it back. Gurkha commitment is legendary in the military, so much so that officers have to be mindful that if they give an order it will be carried out literally, therefore be careful how you give the order. If you said “guard this bridge, no one crosses, do not leave” they will stay there until you come back and tell them to leave. Even if someone turns up and says “I’m here now, you can go” - they won’t, because that’s not the order. Until recently, Gurkhas didn’t receive the same pension as British Army soldiers. They were paid at Nepalese rate, not UK rate. They also couldn’t remain in the UK despite having fought for us. There was a campaign championed by a UK TV actress Joanna Lumley and they were successful in changing that to make it fair. Worth reading about here: www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/what-went-wrong-for-joanna-and-the-gurkhas-2330107.html?amp

There is a Gurkha Nims Dai who was the first Gurkha to go into the SBS (Special Boat Service a tier 1 Special Force) he is also the best mountaineer living today! Look him up, he is super human! It's honestly mystifying that so few Gurkhas go into UK special forces

I have met guys from the Gurkas on many occasions. Nothing changes. They remain this amazing even when in England and on tour. A lot of love for these people

Those crossed "swords" are in fact kukris (a type of machete) particular to Nepal. Legend has it that once a kukri is drawn from its scabbard/sheath it must draw blood before being sheathed.

@ShaneWalta

Жыл бұрын

I'm pretty sure that's a myth. Otherwise it would make sharpening the kukri a pretty unpleasant job!

@lloydcollins6337

Жыл бұрын

@@ShaneWalta it is a myth, they do inspections on parades, and you don't want soldiers on parade in nice clean uniforms dripping blood.

@Mike-James

Жыл бұрын

@@ShaneWalta Yeah that is a myth, probably started by the guys themselves.

@ianpark1805

Жыл бұрын

@@Mike-James ..except that my Dad who served in the Royal Navy in WW2 came across them while stationed in Sri Lanka (then Ceylon). He said they all had a disfigured little finger on one of their hands from cutting their finger when the khukri was drawn, but not in anger. I’m going to guess the disfiguring thing no longer happens nowadays, but my Dads story does give some credence to the story.

@Mike-James

Жыл бұрын

@@ianpark1805 thanks for that, you learn something every day.

Once recruited the Gurkhas head to Catterick in North Yorkshire for 9 months of training.

"As I write these last words, my thoughts return to you who were my comrades, the stubborn and indomitable peasants of Nepal. Once more I hear the laughter with which you greeted every hardship. Once more I see you in your bivouacs or about your fires, on forced march or in the trenches, now shivering with wet and cold, now scorched by a pitiless and burning sun. Uncomplaining you endure hunger and thirst and wounds; and at the last your unwavering lines disappear into the smoke and wrath of battle. Bravest of the brave, most generous of the generous, never had country more faithful friends than you." (Sir Ralph Turner, M.C.)