Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Burma campaign I.D.S.M. group of five awarded to Subedar Aslam Khan, 10 (Pathan) Battalion, Indian Engineers, for the capture of the Sagaing and Ava Bridge; the gallant subedar features in a film taken after the action now held by the Imperial War Museum

Indian Distinguished Service Medal, G.VI.R. (Subdr. Aslam Khan, 10 Pathan Bn, I.E.); 1939-45 Star; Burma Star; War Medal; India Service Medal, these last four unnamed as issued, nearly very fine (5) £900-1100

I.D.S.M. G.G.O. 264-H/1943; London Gazette 16 December 1943. The original recommendation states:

‘At Letpangaing pt 16 (Burma) on night 4/5 May 1943.

During the night 4/5 May the positions of Sub. Aslam Khan’s Coy of Engineers were rigourously attacked by the enemy and the proposed relief of troops located in front could not take place.

Under enemy pressure a Coy of an infantry unit in front of his positions withdrew and the Subedar gathered many of these withdrawing troops into his Coy’s own defensive area during the battle, regardless of personal danger, and allotting them positions controlled their fire. The position was consequently held and the enemy repulsed, their attempt at infiltration prevented.

The conduct of the Subedar throughout the whole night was exceptionally cool and courageous although under fire.

The fine example he set influenced not only his own men but all others in the vicinity and contributed mainly to the success of the defensive action.’

This I.D.S.M. was awarded for the capture of the Sagaing and Ava bridge, the aftermath of which is featured in a film available at the Imperial War Museum - http://www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/1060028794. Subedar Aslam Khan is shown on the Ava Bridge with Captain Baker, commander of “B” Company, 10th (Pathan) Engineer Battalion.