Remembrance Day Programme was held at Kohima War Cemetery on 11th November, 2024 which was attended by the British Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Andrew Fleming. In his special address, Dr. Andrew Fleming acknowledged the Chief Minister and the State government for hoisting ‘Remembrance day’ since the battle of Kohima. He stated that the Commonwealth War Graves Association assisted by the Nagaland State does a remarkable job in the maintenance of the War Cemetery, the resting place of so many heroes. He mentioned that, it is perhaps the cause of its remoteness to Europe that the battle of Kohima is often referred as ‘The Forgotten Battle’. Speaking on the Battle of Kohima, Fleming stated that the bravery of the British and Indian forces and few allies from Australia and Canada, many of them still plays a critical part in our history. He said that we are gathered here today not only to remember those who have fallen but also those who participated in this historic battle and stated “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it and, we dare not, to forget”.
Chief Minister, Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio called to the attention of the words inscribed on the Kohima Epitaph: "When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today." stating that these words serve as a lasting reminder of the sacrifices made, urging us to carry forward the torch of remembrance and respect for those who served.
Rio expressed his utmost appreciation to Dr. Andrew Fleming, for being the initiative behind the Remembrance Day program and for taking all necessary steps to ensure a successful partnership with the British High Commission and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, in the observance of this global event in Kohima. He further said that, “We stand together at the iconic Kohima War Cemetery, on this solemn occasion of Remembrance Day, to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace, justice, and freedom. This Kohima War Cemetery, located in the State capital, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during this battle.”
The Kohima War Cemetery is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it is the resting place of 1,420 Allied soldiers, and also the place where 917 Hindu and Sikh soldiers were cremated according to their faith. Amidst the serene hills of Kohima, we are reminded not only of the precious lives lost but also of the spirit of resilience that this place embodies. The Kohima War Cemetery is significant and unique as it is located on the very grounds where the Battle of Kohima was fought. It is on this terrain that these brave soldiers reached the extent of hand-to-hand combat and against all odds, ensured that freedom and democracy triumphed.
Seventy-nine years ago, the people of this land witnessed one of the fiercest battles of World War II-the Battle of Kohima. It was here that Allied and Indian forces joined hands in a courageous stand, halting the advance of enemy forces and shifting the tides of war. The battle scars remain etched in these hills, but they serve as symbols of bravery, sacrifice, and unity that still resonate with us every day, we reflect on the lives of the men and women who are laid to rest here, those who were cremated, as well as the countless others whose sacrifices have gone unrecorded. Honor the contributions not only of the Allied soldiers but also of the Naga people, whose support, endurance, and valor were integral to the success of that fateful battle. These men and women were ordinary people who, through extraordinary circumstances, became symbols of hope and resilience, he expressed.
Rio also mentioned that war has taught us the value of peace, unity and oneness. The Naga people have converted the experience of violence into a message for global peace. We observe the memories of the battle to spread the message of peace and love. Let us not take for granted the freedom and peace that we have inherited. Instead, let us honor their legacy by fostering unity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace in our own communities. Kohima and the Naga people will continue to play a contributory role for the good of humanity. This is our commitment for now and for all times to come.
Later in the program, a vintage car rally was flagged off by the British Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Andrew Fleming and the Chief Minister, Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio, in the presence of his colleagues, Ministers, Advisors and MLAs and other officers from the Central and State Government and Armed Forces, Ex-servicemen and former Army Veterans.
(Siizo Kikhi IA)
