At the G7 summit in Italy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi pinned a Victoria Cross, the highest gallantry award, to Sepoy Kamal Ram's chest for his bravery during the Second World War. Over 50,000 Indian soldiers fought in Italy, with six of them receiving the Victoria Cross for their significant role in liberating the country from Benito Mussolini's Fascist regime and Nazi Germany. Kamal Ram, a young volunteer in the British Indian Army, joined the 8th Punjab Regiment and was part of the 8th Infantry Division that was deployed to liberate Italy from the heavily fortified Gustav Line.
Italy's Recognition of Indian Valor in World War II
During the G7 summit in Italy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi bestowed the Victoria Cross, the highest gallantry award, to Sepoy Kamal Ram for his bravery during World War II. This recognition highlights the significant contribution of Indian soldiers in liberating Italy from the Fascist regime of Benito Mussolini and Nazi Germany.
Indian Contribution to the Italian Campaign
Over 50,000 Indian soldiers fought in Italy during the war. They played a crucial role in the Allied victory by breaking through the heavily fortified Gustav Line, which had held up the Allied advance for months.
Sepoy Kamal Ram's Heroism
Kamal Ram was a young volunteer in the British Indian Army. He joined the 8th Punjab Regiment and was part of the 8th Infantry Division deployed to Italy. During the Battle of Monte Cassino, Ram displayed extraordinary bravery by leading an assault on a German machine gun position under heavy enemy fire. Despite being seriously wounded, he succeeded in capturing the position, which paved the way for the Allied advance.
Other Indian Recipients of the Victoria Cross in Italy
Besides Kamal Ram, five other Indian soldiers received the Victoria Cross for their actions in Italy during World War II:
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why was Kamal Ram awarded the Victoria Cross so many years after the war?
Kamal Ram's Victoria Cross was lost after the war and was only rediscovered in 2022. The Indian government has since taken steps to officially recognize his valor.
2. What is the significance of the Victoria Cross?
The Victoria Cross is the highest military honor awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. It is a testament to the recipient's exceptional gallantry in the face of the enemy.
3. How many Indian soldiers fought in World War II?
Over 2.5 million Indian soldiers served in various theaters during World War II, making it one of the largest volunteer armies in history.
4. What role did the Indian Army play in the liberation of Italy?
Indian troops played a significant role in breaking through the Gustav Line and helped liberate cities such as Cassino, Anzio, and Bologna.
5. Is Italy still grateful for India's contribution to its liberation?
Yes, Italy continues to honor and commemorate the role of Indian soldiers in its liberation from fascism. Numerous memorials and monuments across the country pay tribute to their sacrifice.
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