"Once again the centre of Brecon was brought to life with this year's Gurkha Freedom Parade.

This year the parade marked the 23rd anniversary of the granting of the Honorary Citizenship to the Gurkha Company (Mandalay).

This year the Parade was attended by the Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas. The Band of the Brigade of Gurkha's is based at Shorncliffe near Folkstone.

They are a popular band and thus are always very busy and have toured to most parts of the world.The display of precision military marching and musical entertainment was enhanced by a demonstration of traditional Nepalese and Kukri dancing by children and Gurkha soldiers.

This finale to the parade was a special treat and was well received by the spectators.

The Mayor, Councillor Martin Weale's speech praised the role of the Gurkha Company Mandalay played in the development of the British Infantry in their capacity of support staff at the Infantry Training School, Brecon. Also, the part that the Gurkha soldiers play in the wider community of Brecon, was commended and would always be appreciated by the people and especially the Town Council.

The new Commanding Officer, Major Guptaman Gurung had only joined the Company some 48 hours before the parade but nevertheless conducted the event with great proficiency.

This year 14 soldiers were awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct medal which was in recognition of 15 years of exemplary military service.

Also during the parade 8 soldiers were awarded the General Service Medal to mark their service in Afghanistan. During their tour of duty in Afghanistan the Royal Gurkha Regiment won the following honours
5 Military Crosses
3 Mentioned in Dispatches
1 Queen's Commendation for Valuable Service
9 Joint Commanders Commendations
10 Commander British Forces Commendations.

This is the highest number of honours and awards that a Gurkha Battalion has received since Malaya in 1964.

Taking all this into consideration and the continuing involvement within the community of Brecon, and indeed elsewhere in Britain, the Town Council are committed to achieving proper recognition and reward for the Gurkha soldiers and their families.

Recent press and media coverage of the ongoing campaign for settlement rights will always be an issue the Town Council will bring to the attention of the relevant MP's and AM's. The Gurkha soldier's dedication to the service of the Crown and Country should be something everybody must recognise and reward."

Article written by Michael Gittins