Military Medal 'For Bravery in the Field'. GVI first issue (21212 Naik Abdul Aziz , Bengal S & M Gp. I.E.)

The recipient was by ethnicity and faith a Punjabi Musalman soldier holding the rank of Naik (Corporal) while serving with the Bengal Sappers & Miners Group Indian Engineers, of the British Indian Army

Original Defender Kohima Garrison: Naik Abdul Aziz is confirmed as being decorated with an 'Immediate' award of the Military Medal for 'Bravery in the Field' for his conspicuous gallantry during the Defence of Kohima, 6-20 April 1944 during which he was 'Wounded-in-Action' by 'Mortar' shrapnel to the head

Military Medal: The award was published in the London Gazette issue of 31 August 1944, and the immediate award recommendation is quoted below:

Quote,

During the operations of 161 Indian Infantry Brigade Group in the Arakan and the Naga Hills, Naik Abdul Aziz has been in command of a sub-section of 2 Indian Field Company, I.E. At Kwela Binga on 1st to 3rd January he directed his party during bridging operations under continuous enemy sniping and intermittent gun fire, and it was largely by his determination and courage that the crossings over the chaung were maintained and improved to enable vital supplies to be carried forward. On 6 Apr 44 his sub-sec accompanied 4 R.W.K. Regt Gp into Kohima and on 7 Apr 44 he was wounded in the head by mortar fire. He refused to be evacuated with the last party of wounded to leave before it was encircled by the enemy, and insisted on remaining in active command of his men. During the 12 days which followed, when his section was holding defensive positions under heavy fire, Naik Abdul Aziz toured and rallied his posts and directed his mens fire with complete disregard for his own safety, and when his Sec was relieved on 20 Apr he was the last man to leave. Throughout these operations he has shown on all occasions great initiative and enthusiasm, consistent courage and coolness in action, and inspiring leadership of his sub-section.

Unquote.

All awards for gallantry to 'Original Defenders' of Kohima, are both extremely scarce seen and always highly desirable, for the single action that stopped dead the Japanese invasion of British India, and ultimately turned the tide for the British and Empire forces in the Burma Campaign

Condition: About VF

Code: 22807