As part of the events, marking the Centenary of the First World War ( 1914-1918), a special service to honour the overseas-born Victoria Cross heroes took place at the National Memorial Arboretum on 5th March. A total of 628 Victoria Crosses were awarded of which 145 were for the soldiers who came from the then British Empire, USA, Japan, Germany and Ukraine, who fought for the country not theirs. Each soldier was remembered on a specially designed Commemorative Paving Stone. Eric Pickles MP, the Community Secretary, in welcoming the guests, including the Prime Minister David Cameron, described the event as " a small act of gratitude for those who defended the liberty and freedom from a country that respects different faiths and where bravery knows no national barrier".
The Prime Minister spoke about the soldiers, "who fought for the freedom we all enjoy today with their names carved permanently on the Paving Stones, on the soil of our land. They were great men, a remarkable minority on sea, land and air". Sargent Johnson Beharry VC, unveiled the Commemorative plaque, followed by the Last Post and a two minute silence. Representatives of Australia, Canada, Denmark, India, Nepal, New Zealand, Netherlands, Pakistan, Indo-British Heritage Trust and the Prime Minister laid wreaths on the Paving Stones. Among them 21 From India and Pakistan including t Khudadad khan, the first Indian to be awarded the Victoria Cross.
Among the large number of guests from the Armed Services and members of various organisation from all over the country were Major Malcolm Bradbury and Lt. Col.William Prince TD, Secretary and Chairman of The Kai Kai Baluch Club, with very strong connection with India. Lt. Col. William Price, who,was born in India, as was his father, was the only man present who had actually met Khudadad Khan as a six year old, taken by his father. He remembered that Khan looked tall because of his starched- fanned turban but otherwise he was quite small. His link with the historic hero added a personal touch to the event. The VCs are honoured and remembered, not only as warriors winning wars but also winning our hearts and gratitude for their sense of duty and service to the King Emperor. They not only displayed amazing military actions but also a remarkable Indo- British relationship.
photo courtesy: Vinookumar Sachania