The First Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles (1 RGR) proudly marked the Regiment’s 31st Birthday on 1 July 2025 at British Forces Brunei. The event welcomed senior guests, including Brigadier David Pack OBE (Colonel of the Regiment), and Ms Catherine Pochkhanavala-Cleeve (British Deputy High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam).
A temple service commenced the activities and a moving tribute to the Regiment’s fallen heroes. This was followed by an honour guard presented to Brigadier Pack, who delivered an inspiring birthday address, leading the celebrations and recognising outstanding service and leadership across the Battalion.
A highlight of the occasion was the commissioning of three Warrant Officers from 1 RGR to Captain:
- Captain Shishirkumar Gharti Magar
- Captain Man Bahadur Gurung
- Captain Sojit Gauchan
The celebration also included the presentation of prestigious honours and awards:
- King’s Khukuri – Warrant Officer Class Two Deepak Rana
- Parish Trophy (Best Rifleman in 1 RGR) – Rifleman Manish Tamang, C Company
- Regimental Sergeant Major’s Trophy – Corporal Raju Tamang, Headquarters Company
- Gurkha Major’s Trophy – Colour Sergeant Roshan Gurung, Headquarters Company
A tree planting was conducted with blessings from both Pandit Ji and Lama Guru, symbolising growth, harmony, and the spiritual depth of Gurkha traditions.
The evening concluded with traditional dance performances, a Khukuri pattern display, and a stirring performance by the Pipes and Drums capturing the spirit, pride, and heritage of the Regiment.
