Honouring the Fallen: Gurkha Bearer Party Lays Unknown WW2 Hero to Rest in Italy
Today, 20 November, 2025, a moving service took place in Arezzo, Italy, as an unknown soldier from the Second World War was finally laid to rest with full military honours with a bearer party from the Gurkhas carrying him to his final resting place.
The Discovery and The Gurkha Connection
The remains of the soldier were recently discovered in a shallow trench within a forest in Alpe di Catenaia, near Subbiano.
Research conducted by the Ministry of Defence’s Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), known as the ‘MOD War Detectives’, linked the soldier to action that took place in early August 1944. It was determined the casualty was most probably serving with the 20th Brigade of the 10th Indian Infantry Division, a formation that famously included Gurkha units.
Elite Fighters in Mountainous Terrain
The location of the discovery is deeply significant. By the summer of 1944, the Allies were advancing through Italy, aiming to break the formidable Gothic Line. Progress relied on capturing mountainous regions that were easy to defend and extremely difficult to attack.
The Gurkhas were instrumental in this campaign, involved in every major offensive. Their reputation as elite infantry soldiers, perfectly suited for fighting in mountainous and difficult terrain, was essential to the Allied progress. They demonstrated extreme acts of bravery throughout the campaign, earning two Victoria Crosses.
Captain Tej Bahadur Gurung of the Royal Gurkha Rifles, who was part of the bearer party, spoke of the honour:
“I am honoured to be part of the military at the burial of this unknown soldier who fell during World War 2. His sacrifice echoes through history, and we proudly uphold his legacy of courage and loyalty that defines the Gurkha spirit.”
A Final Act of Remembrance
The service was conducted by The Reverend (Captain) Timothy Watts, who stressed the enduring significance of such ceremonies:
“Time passes, but the importance of remembering fallen soldiers grows more important. We honour one unknown soldier today. At the same time, we remember the many from all round the world who served and sacrificed. They gave their tomorrows for our today.”
Tracey Bowers, MOD War Detective, highlighted the importance of the ceremony:
“It has been a privilege to work with the Gurkha Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Support Battalion… and to highlight the contribution of the Gurkhas in Italy during World War 2, something often overlooked. Although it was impossible to name this casualty, we are pleased he has been given a full military burial, laid to rest and honoured.”
The Gurkha Welfare Trust stands with the Brigade of Gurkhas in honouring this final act of remembrance, reinforcing our commitment to the legacy of every soldier who has served alongside the Crown.