67 Gurkha Field Squadron celebrated an historic day on the 13th of July 2023, as it underwent its redesignation. This breathed life into the revered 20 Field Squadron and 61 Field Support Squadron within the 36 Engineer Regiment and the Queen's Gurkha Engineers. The event was planned and coordinated Staff Sergeant Gaurab Gurung.
67 Gurkha Field Squadron was the first Gurkha Squadron to be formed on the 1st of October 1949. After arriving in Hong Kong, the Squadron saw its continuous service in Malaya, Borneo, Brunei and Nepal on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations and construction exercises.
Operation DAWN was a long-term commitment of the 67 Gurkha Field Squadron to a drug rehab project on Town Island, Hongkong. On the 6th of September 1996, a parade was held at Borneo lines, Shek Kong, to mark the disbandment of the 67 Gurkha Field Squadron.
With regimental pride and traditions at the forefront, the event marked a momentous chapter in the unit’s rich history. Under the watchful gaze of distinguished guests, Brigadier Mark Lancaster, Baron Lancaster of Kimbolton, TD, VR, PC (Deputy Commandant the Brigade of Gurkhas) and Brigadier John L Clark CBE (Colonel of the Regiment, the Queen’s Gurkha Engineers). In the first phase saw the parade form up on the square for the redesignation ceremony, supported by the Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas.
The final phase saw the boxing hanger transformed into a festive space where soldiers and guests shared laughter, stories, and cherished memories. Two separate cakes were cut to commemorate the redesignation of 67 Gurkha Field Squadron and 20 Field Support Squadron. It was good to see that previous Gurkha Majors, Commanding Officers, Officers, and Soldiers from 67 Gurkha Field Squadron from the 20 Field Squadron period in Hong Kong attended the event. It was fascinating to listen to their old-day stories.
The parade was supported by The Band of The Princess of Wales Royal Regiment (PWRR) directed by Lieutenant Colonel Wayne Hopla. The parade also involved the presentation of awards:
67 Gurkha Field Squadron now embarks on a new journey under its new banner.
By Lance Corporal Puspa Gurung, 67 Gurkha Field Squadron
