Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A fine Second World War Burma operations M.M. awarded to Rifleman Kharke Pun, 4/5th Royal Gurkha Rifles

Military Medal, G.VI.R. (62939 Rfn. Kharke Pun, 5 R.G.R.), officially impressed naming, one or two edge bruises, otherwise good very fine £700-900

M.M. London Gazette 20 September 1945. The original recommendation for an immediate award states:

‘In the successful operation of the capture of the ridge overlooking the Paukkaung Plain, which began on 5 June 1945, Rifleman Kharke Pun was the No. 1 of the L.M.G. of the left forward section of ‘B’ Company during the Company’s attack on the track feature. This feature was held by one plus platoon of the enemy, who were surprised and attacked. Rifleman Kharke Pun saw on the other side of the saucer feature a Jap L.M.G. preparing to open up on the attacking platoon. He immediately charged the gun and crew, uphill, firing his own L.M.G. from the hip, overran it and killed both enemy before they were able to get their gun into action. This brave act undoubtedly allowed our men to capture the position, killing one officer and nine men with no loss to ourselves and turning the whole ridge position. Throughout the operation, Rifleman Kharke Pun’s cheerful bravery has been remarkable.’