This Day in History: 1945-06-07

In Burma the 4th Battalion successfully attacked Tanbingon, meeting fierce Japanese resistance. By first light on 8th June they had established a firm perimeter, killing 76 Japanese for the loss of one British Officer (Major PR Collins), 7 Gurkha Other Ranks killed and 11 wounded.  Collins was recommended for a posthumous Victoria Cross but only received a mention in despatches.  Click here to read a more detailed account of the battle.  In 1947 the 4th Battalion became 5/8GR in the Army of independent India and in 1964 a Special Army Order directed that 5/8GR was to be belatedly awarded the Battle Honour ‘Tanbingon’.  Every year on this day 5/8GR commemorates Tanbingon Day.