British high commissioner pays tribute to Battle of Red Hill’s soldiers

Our Correspondent
Imphal, May 29 (EMN): The British Deputy High Commissioner to India Bruce Bucknell on Tuesday paid floral tribute commemorating the 74th Anniversary of the ‘Battle of Red Hill’ at the India Peace Memorial at Maibam Lokpaching in Manipur.
Speaking during the occasion, the British envoy said, ‘we should remember all the soldiers from various nations because remembrance will avoid future conflicts.
The younger generation of today do not like small conflicts that will create major conflict like the one which happen 74 years ago.’
The British Deputy High Commissioner along with his two officials, members of the Indo-Japan Friendship Association, students of the Manipur University who are pursuing degree course in Tourism and Hospitality, and the members of local clubs and associations attended the programme.
It may be worth noted that the ‘Battle of Red Hill’ also known as ‘Point 2926,’ was one of the fiercest battles fought in Manipur during the Second World War. Also, it may be mentioned that in this battle the Japanese attacked and occupied parts of the Red Hill and Maibam village of present Bishnupur district of Manipur on May 21 1944.
An intense and historic battle ensued for nine days between the Japanese and a combined British effort involving infantry, armour, artillery and air attacks, which was concluded on May 29, 1944.
During the gathering, a functionary of the Second World War’s Imphal Campaign Foundation read out the message sent by Akiko Macdonald, the chairperson of Burma Campaign Society, and Kenichi Okuyama, the former Deputy Mayor of Shonai in Japan.
In her message, Akiko Macdonald remembered the soldiers who fought in the battle and prayed that all the soldiers’ soul rest in peace while Kenichi Okuyama conveyed that India, the Great Britain, and Japan should deepen the friendly relation and promote goodwill.
The anniversary was said to been held under the aegis of the Second World War’s Imphal Campaign Foundation.
The foundation since its inception has been remembered for working towards the reconciliation and restoration of world peace.