Kohima commemorates 70th Anniversary of historic battle

The 70th anniversary of the Battle of Kohima was observed here today at the 2nd World War Cemetery, where rich tributes were paid in memory of the brave war heroes killed in 1944.

The Battle of Kohima has been voted the Greatest Battle in the history of Britain. During the fighting at Kohima, more than 4000 British and Indian servicemen were killed, missing or wounded, according to Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC).

Taking part in the service, Brigadier Greville Bibby CBE, commander of 15 (North East) Brigade and York Garrison said that it was truly humbling to land in Nagaland, terming it as peaceful and its people beautiful.

Thanking the people of Nagaland for extending good hospitality, Brigadier Bibby said that it was an unforgettable and wonderful experience for all of them.
“We are gathered here today to remember what happened 70 years ago, to honor those who had to face the tribulations of that time, to ensure that the follies of the past are not repeated and to build on the legacies of friendship left behind by those who have gone before us,” said Charles Chasie.

He added, “we are here to commemorate our heroes, honour their memories and take inspiration from them. But above all, we are concerned with the living and how we can build bridges of understanding and friendship across the seas.”

Rev. L. Tsanso who led the ‘act of remembrance’ stated, “Let us remember before Almighty God and commend to his sure keeping those who have died in the service of their country in conflict; Those whom we knew and whose memory we treasure and all who have lived and died in the service of mankind.”

Lieutenant Colonel Ian Hargreaves, commanding officer 2 Signal Regiment pronounced the pericles.WO1 (GSM) Brian Kienan, York Garrison Sergeant Major also took part in the service.

Others who spoke on the occasion included World War II veteran Sovehü Nienu; CJ Ponraj, additional chief secretary to the Government of Nagaland; Bob Cook, curator of the Kohima Museum in York and Dr. P. Ngully, president Kohima Educational Society. Rozelle Mero compered the service.