Charlotte Carty, hailing from Milborne Port in Somerset, today completed trekking 77 miles (124km) through hills and jungle, retracing her grandfather’s 39-hour World War II journey from Jessami to Kohima. Carty was accompanied by her husband and three children. Altogether 27 people joined the walk of remembrance including the Alder tours and travels team, and Sampan tours and travel team. Among them were Dr. Robert Lyman, a historian who is an expert on the battle of Kohima. The 61 year old man was also able to complete the 124 km walk.
According to BBC news, Lt Col Brown was the commanding officer of the 1st Assam Regiment, a regiment recruited from local Indian tribes. In April of 1944, the Allied garrison in the village of Kohima was besieged by troops of the Japanese Imperial Army. Lt Col Brown and his troops was directed to withdraw from the battle of Jessami to provide assistance at the battle of Kohima.
He was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his efforts to lead his troop through the challenging Naga jungle terrain. It has been reported that Lt Col Brown arrived in Kohima at 15:00 local time on 3 April 1944.
The Kohima Education trust organised a small program for the team at the end of their journey at War Cemetery Kohima. During the event, Carty delivered a brief speech where she emphasized the importance of honoring and preserving history for future generations.
The team was also accompanied by the Kohima Village Youth Organisation team from D.Khel Kohima village who walked and escorted them till War cemetery.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
Describing her trek as an extraordinary experience, Carty marveled at the strength and endurance of her grandfather in the past. Honoring her grandfather, who arrived in Kohima 80 years prior, she undertook this challenging journey, considering it one of the toughest and longest of her life. “This journey was a long-awaited tribute to these courageous individuals who sacrificed so much for others,” said Carty.
With the walk coming to an end, this will commemorate the 80th Anniversary of The Battle of Kohima which is tomorrow, April 4. I feel the closeness and emotions as I felt my grandfather walking on these ground on the same day, expressed Carty. The beauty of Naga mountains and the people was also deeply acknowledged by Carty and her team.
The team were also greeted by the village people and various organisations on their way.
