Remembrance Day at Kohima War Cemetery: Honoring the heroes of the ‘Forgotten Battle’

On Remembrance Day, November 11, the Kohima War Cemetery hosted dignitaries, veterans, and citizens who gathered to honor the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought in the Battle of Kohima, one of World War II’s critical battles. The ceremony, attended by British Deputy High Commissioner Dr Andrew Fleming, paid tribute to the Allied and Indian forces.

Dr Andrew Fleming, in his special address, acknowledged the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, and the state government for their continuous support in hosting Remembrance Day since the battle. He highlighted the role of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, alongside the Nagaland government, in maintaining the War Cemetery, which serves as the final resting place of 1,420 Allied soldiers, including many from Britain, India, Australia, and Canada.

“We are gathered here today not only to remember those who have fallen but also those who participated in this historic battle. Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it and, we dare not, to forget,” said Dr Fleming.

The Battle of Kohima, fought from April to June 1944, was one of the fiercest and most crucial engagements of World War II. According to Dr Fleming, it is often referred to as ‘The Forgotten Battle’ due to its remoteness from Europe. However, it was here that British and Indian forces, alongside a few allies from Australia and Canada, made a stand against the advancing Japanese forces.

The Kohima War Cemetery is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it is the resting place of 1,420 Allied soldiers, and also the place where 917 Hindu and Sikh soldiers were cremated according to their faith.

The Kohima War Cemetery is significant and unique as it is located on the very grounds where the Battle of Kohima was fought. It is on this terrain that these brave soldiers reached the extent of hand-to-hand combat and against all odds, ensured that freedom and democracy triumphed.

Echoing the gravity of the day, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio called attention to the words inscribed on the Kohima Epitaph: ”When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today.” These words, according to Rio, served as a lasting reminder of the sacrifices made, urging us to carry forward the torch of remembrance and respect for those who served.

“Seventy-nine years ago, the people of this land witnessed one of the fiercest battles of World War II-the Battle of Kohima. It was here that Allied and Indian forces joined hands in a courageous stand, halting the advance of enemy forces and shifting the tides of war,” said Rio.

“The battle scars remain etched in these hills, but they serve as symbols of bravery, sacrifice, and unity that still resonate with us every day, we reflect on the lives of the men and women who are laid to rest here, those who were cremated, as well as the countless others whose sacrifices have gone unrecorded. Honor the contributions not only of the Allied soldiers but also of the Naga people, whose support, endurance, and valor were integral to the success of that fateful battle. These men and women were ordinary people who, through extraordinary circumstances, became symbols of hope and resilience,” he continued.

Rio expressed his appreciation to Dr Andrew Fleming, for being the initiative behind the Remembrance Day program and for taking all necessary steps to ensure a successful partnership with the British High Commission and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, in the observance of this global event in Kohima. He further said that, “We stand together at the iconic Kohima War Cemetery, on this solemn occasion of Remembrance Day, to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace, justice, and freedom. This Kohima War Cemetery, located in the State capital, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during this battle.”

“War has taught us the value of peace, unity, and oneness,” Rio said, urging the gathered crowd to reflect on the lessons of the past. “The Naga people have converted the experience of violence into a message for global peace.

We observe the memories of the battle to spread the message of peace and love. Let us not take for granted the freedom and peace that we have inherited. Instead, let us honor their legacy by fostering unity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace in our own communities. Kohima and the Naga people will continue to play a contributory role for the good of humanity. This is our commitment for now and for all times to come,” he added.

Later in the program, a vintage car rally was flagged off by the British Deputy High Commissioner, Dr Andrew Fleming and the Chief Minister, Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, in the presence of his colleagues, Ministers, Advisors and MLAs and other officers from the Central and State Government and Armed Forces, Ex-servicemen and former Army Veterans. (Inputs from DIPR)

MT