Honouring a Legacy: The Launch of Gurkha Hills by Major John Burlison
On Monday 10th November, we were honoured to attend the official launch of Gurkha Hills, a memoir by former Gurkha Officer Major John Burlison. The event was kindly held at Druids Lodge Polo Club and was a moving celebration of a man whose life was defined by service, adventure, and a deep affection for Nepal and its people.
When John died in 2023, his family made a remarkable discovery in his attic: a long-forgotten manuscript of a memoir he had written in the 1980s. Within its pages lies an account of his years based in Pokhara, where he trekked hundreds of miles each year through remote communities on a mission to recruit Gurkha soldiers into the British Army and to ensure the continued welfare of their families and communities.
The book, now lovingly brought to life by his family, offers readers a rare window into that world. It captures John’s unique ability to blend duty with compassion, and his deep respect for the Gurkhas he served alongside.
Surrounded by family, friends, and supporters, the launch event was filled with warmth and nostalgia, as well as many shared memories of holidays and treks with John! Guests heard readings from Gurkha Hills by John’s godson, Jonny Ormerod, which brought his words and wit to life and his niece, Carol, delivered a touching tribute, reflecting on the pride the family feel in finally seeing his work published:
‘So, it is a true legacy to a wonderful man and now a published author and we are thrilled and thank you all for coming to the official launch of his special book ‘Gurkha Hills’.
- Carol Ballett, John’s niece
One particularly special moment came when John’s family presented a very special donation to The Gurkha Welfare Trust, marking the first proceeds from the book’s early sales and continuing his lifetime of support for our work across Nepal. The cheque, beautifully designed by John’s sister Celia, the talented artist behind the book’s front cover, was proudly handed over to GWT representatives.
Rebecca, Partnerships Officer at The Gurkha Welfare Trust, who has been working closely with John’s family, shared her own reflections:
“I don’t think there’s anything I love more than Nepal, and to read it so beautifully and honestly captured transported me back to each of my own trips, spending time weaving my way through the hills to visit remote villages and bustling through busy crowds of the bigger cities.
John’s words give such a true insight into life in remote Nepal, and as I read, I couldn’t help but picture our teams out there today, undertaking almost identical journeys to that of John. I was struck by how similar the experiences still are, even decades later, and how little things in the hills of Nepal have changed since the 1980s when these reflections were first written. John’s care and compassion for the young Nepali boys he helped recruit into the British Army shines through, offering a rare and authentic insight into what it truly takes to become a Gurkha soldier.
Within the pages of the book, John captures everything I cherish about Nepal – the people, the pace, and its heart – all with such eloquence and in a highly entertaining and observant memoir.
Working with John’s family to launch the book has been a true privilege. They’ve carried his spirit and love for Nepal with such grace and warmth. I’d recommend this book to anyone who’s ever been captivated by Nepal, or who just wants to understand what makes it so special.”
Keeping John’s Spirit Alive
The launch of Gurkha Hills is a celebration of a life steeped in service and adventure. Through the book, John’s voice and thoughts live on, sharing stories that continue to reflect the extraordinary relationship between the British Crown and the hill communities of Nepal.
All proceeds from Gurkha Hills will continue to support The Gurkha Welfare Trust’s work, ensuring that John’s dedication to the Gurkhas carries forward to future generations.