The Military Medal of Captain (QGO) Ramprasad Pun MM, 2nd King Edward VII’s Own Gurkha Rifles (The Sirmoor Rifles)

The Brunei Revolt of 1962 and subsequent Borneo Confrontation, lasting until 1966, saw a significant number of gallantry awards made to Gurkha soldiers, including, in 1965, a Victoria Cross to Lance Corporal Rambahadur Limbu (today the only living Gurkha VC). The Gurkha Museum is fortunate to have been able to expand its collection of these by purchase at auction of the medals of Captain (Queen’s Gurkha Officer) Ramprasad Pun, including the Military Medal awarded to him for actions in Borneo. 

Ramprasad was just a young Rifleman at the time of the action that resulted in his award.  On 2 September 1965, he was the Bren gunner in a platoon from 2nd King Edward VIIs Own Gurkha Rifles tasked with setting an ambush on a route believed to be used for infiltration by Indonesian-backed insurgents.  The expected enemy turned out to be in much larger strength than expected and from a different direction, placing the ambush group in severe jeopardy.  In the words of his medal citation:   

“Throughout this harsh and confused battle against almost overwhelming odds, Rifleman Ramprasad Pun’s behaviour was outstanding. His marksmanship was of a very high order and he inflicted a great number of casualties on the enemy. His fearless example under fire served to encourage the soldiers around him. His personal conduct during the withdrawal phase contributed greatly to his flank group and his platoon reaching the rendezvous without casualties.” 

The Military Medal.  When it was introduced during the First World War, The Military Medal ranked immediately after the Distinguished Conduct Medal.  It was discontinued in 1993, when all ranks became eligible for award of the Military Cross (previously awarded only to officers and warrant officers), which ranks as the third highest award for gallantry on land, after  the Victoria Cross and the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross. 

The purchase was made from the Museum’s Friends Fund, with kind support from The 2nd Gurkha Rifles Trust.