The Late Rifleman Sachin Limbu 1 RGR

Many of you will have picked up in the press the sad news of this brave young Gurkha soldier. On the 2nd January he finally succumbed to the horrific wounds (losing both legs just below his stomach and numerous other injuries) sustained in an IED explosion on duty in Helmand on 19th June 2010. Against huge odds he fought to live and that he did so for so many months is a testament to his determination and courage and to the skill and care of the staff at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. His father is retired WO2 Dillisher Limbu, Drum Major of 7GR then 2 RGR.

From the following, published in the April/May 2011 edition of Parbate and written by one of Sachin's contemporaries, it is clear that his struggle was an inspiration to all who knew him. It now makes a fitting tribute.

 Parbate article

16 February 2011 was a very memorable day for 30048322 Rfn Sachin Limbu as he received his Operational Service Medal for Op HERRICK 12 from the Colonel of the Royal Gurkha Rifles, Brig J C Lawrence MBE, at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. Early in the morning members of all ranks from B (Sari Bair) Company and their families headed to Birmingham. On arrival we changed into No. 2 dress and prepared for the ceremony. At the same time Lt Col G M Strickland MBE, CO 1 RGR also arrived from Catterick.

We eagerly waited for the arrival of Sachin. He was brought in with his familiar big smile on his face. He was placed in the middle of us, with his parents side by side. Then Brig Lawrence arrived. OC B Coy, Maj Charlie Crowe, read the citation and Brig Saheb and CO Saheb presented Sachin with his OSM and the CO’s Commendation.

The citation reads:

‘‘Rifleman Sachin Limbu deployed on Operation Herrick 12 with B (Sari Bair) Company, 1st Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles as a machine gunner with Callsign Cobra 24B. He was involved in a number of operations to stabilise the area of Walizi Village, many of which involved intense, protracted and close quarter combat in an area known to present a high risk from IEDs. On 24 June 2010 his multiple deployed on a patrol to Walizi as part of an operation to enable Local Nationals freedom of movement and deter insurgent activity in the area. As his multiple reached its objective, an area characterised by frequent insurgent attacks, Rifleman Sachin moved into a fire position to provide protection to his comrades and was caught in a devastating explosion. Rifleman Sachin proved himself to be a skilled and fierce fighter, and his conduct in contact with the enemy was exemplary. Since being evacuated for medical treatment to the UK, he has consistently shown grit, determination and true inner strength. His positive attitude, sheer willpower to overcome adversity and tenacity in the face of grievous injury is a source of inspiration and deep pride to his Company and Battalion."

When he received the medal the whole ward echoed with loud applause and cheers. The atmosphere was full of emotion. It was an incredible moment which can’t be described in words. Sachin is an inspiration for all of us. We chatted with him for almost an hour. He was delighted to see every one of us. Afterwards, we headed back to Sir John Moore Barracks. We hope to be able to visit him more frequently, which will make him feel better. We all wish Sachin the very best for his recovery and may God Almighty shower him with all his blessings now and forever.

Jai B (Sari Bair) Company!