Serving soldiers, veterans, and families of the Queen’s Gurkha Signals (QGS) have met to mark the 75th anniversary of the unit’s formation.
Nearly 500 serving and veteran members of the QGS marched on parade at Bramcote Barracks near Nuneaton, Warwickshire.
Marking the 75th anniversary of the formation was extremely important for everyone who has served in the organisation,
The special day included a parade, an awards ceremony, sports events, and other family entertainment.
General Dame Sharon Nesmith inspects soldiers.
Nearly 500 serving and veteran members of the QGS marched on parade at Bramcote Barracks near Nuneaton, Warwickshire to be inspected by General, Dame Sharon Nesmith DCB ADC Gen, the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff.
General Nesmith, who commissioned into the Royal Signals back in 1991, and is now the deputy commander of all UK military forces, spoke very fondly of the QGS:
The Royal Signals is made a richer place by the contribution that the QGS has made to the Corps over the last 75 years, both in times of peace and in periods of conflict.
“Throughout my service, I have had the honour of working with many soldiers and officers from the QGS, and I wish you all the very best of luck for the next 75 years.”
In late 1948, as the Malayan Emergency gathered pace, it was decided that a Gurkha Signals unit should be established to support the new 17 Gurkha Infantry Division. It was a small cadre (or group) of Royal Signals personnel supported by Gurkha non-commissioned officers.
Marking the 75th anniversary of the formation was extremely important for everyone who has served in the organisation, explained Commander QGS, Lieutenant Colonel Jonny Carey:
“The QGS is an exceptional organisation with very strong bonds between everyone associated with it. Once you immerse yourself within the culture, history, and professionalism of the team, you feel part of a real family.
The organisation was formally established initially as Royal Signals Gurkha but renamed Gurkha Royal Signals after a short time.
In 1977, in recognition of their service, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II bestowed the title of Queen’s Gurkha Signals, and today QGS soldiers and officers are deployed worldwide in support of British military operations.
Added Lieutenant Colonel Carey:
“This celebration of the 75th anniversary of our formation has brought everyone in that family together, whether an association member, from the early days, pariwar, or current serving members of the QGS.”
The special day included a parade, an awards ceremony, sports events, and other family entertainment.
RSM WO1 Subash Thapa said:
Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Queen’s Gurkha Signals is an honour.
“For three quarters of a century, our officers and soldiers have proudly carried the legacy of excellence in military communications, adapting to every challenge while upholding the traditions with professionalism and loyalty to the crown.
“This inspires us to continue serving with distinction, fostering the strong bond between Regiment, Corps and Army for years to come.”
