Gurkha Recognised For Bravery

A soldier from the Folkestone based Royal Gurkha Rifiles is one of twenty who have been honoured for their courage in Afghanistan today.

32 year old Corporal Baljit Limbu has received a Mention in Dispatches for rescuing a severely wounded comrade despite being injured himself.

Cpl Limbu, was at the back of a patrol in the Nahr-e-Saraj area of Helmand Province in southern Afghanistan last June when he and a fellow Gurkha were hit by a massive improvised explosive device (IED) blast.

He was thrown about 160ft in the air, left temporarily deaf and suffered shrapnel wounds to his right arm and neck in the explosion, which left a hole the size of a large car.

Despite his injuries, Cpl Limbu immediately went to the help of his more seriously injured comrade, dragged him to safety and gave him emergency first aid.

His citation said: "Limbu repeatedly displayed exemplary bravery. He consolidated his reputation as a most resilient commander, and his demonstration of unfailing leadership in adversity and danger was inspirational.''

But he insisted: "I was just doing my job. I just found out (about the honour) about two days ago - it's exciting.''

The Gurkha, who is married with a three-year-old daughter, was injured on two other occasions during his time in Afghanistan.

He was left blind in his left eye when his checkpoint was attacked by insurgents just one hour before the end of his six-month tour.

Recipients of a Mention In Dispatches receive a silver oakleaf to be worn on the appropriate campaign medal ribbon. It is the UK armed forces oldest form of recognition of bravery.