Talks
Britain’s Gurkhas, Their Place in Our History and Our Future
by Colonel David G Hayes CBE
Date: Saturday 3 February 2024
The Gurkhas are the most feared and respected body of fighting men in the British Army. This talk traces their history from their origins in Nepal in 1815 though to their current operations
As one of the best known and to their enemies, the most feared body of fighting men in the British Army, Gurkhas were first recruited to serve the British Crown in 1815. Since that time, with the loyal support of their nation of Nepal, they have fought in all Britain’s major wars and lesser conflicts gaining a reputation for steadfast bravery, endurance and as honourable soldiers.
David Hayes will describe their origins, how they have evolved and survived the rigors of war and international politics, in order to remain such loyal friends of Britain, and such a revered, feared and respected fighting force.
David Hayes was commissioned into the 7th Gurkha Rifles in 1973, served in the Far East and in most of the Army’s major and some minor conflicts, he commanded the British Army’s Jungle Warfare Battalion, his final appointment being Colonel Brigade of Gurkhas, retiring in 2011. He is Chairman of the Gurkha Brigade Association, is a Trustee of the Gurkha Welfare Trust, and the very proud Chairman of the Friends of Yeatman Hospital.
