Orders, Decorations and Medals

A good immediate M.M. for the attack on Japanese positions at Dathwekyauk, to Lance Naik Misal Khan, 14th Punjabis

MILITARY MEDAL, G.VI.R. (18804 L/Nk, 14 Punjab R.) officially engraved naming in upright capitals, mounted on original investiture pin-brooch, very fine

M.M., London Gazette, 18th May, 1944: 'In recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Burma.' The following information was extracted from official sources: 'On February 9th (1944), during the attack on the Japanese positions of Dathwekyauk, LINk. Misal Khan was commanding the right hand leading section of the attack. Although surprised by heavy rifle, automatic and grenade fire from a hitherto unsuspected enemy bunker, he led his section with great dash into the communication trenches ... and bombed out the enemy ... personally getting two grenades into covered pits and inflicting severe casualties. he remained holding this position under heavy fire for over an hour and only withdrew with two unwounded men left after orders had been received to come back. The leadership, dash and gallantry of this young N.C.O. in the face of heavy and accurate fire is worthy of the highest praise.'

Lance Naik Misal Khan, a Pathan from the village of Parmulai in the district of Mardan, was serving with the 9th Battalion of the 14th Punjab Regiment at the time of the above related action, the Battalion forming part of 20th Indian Division, 4 Corps. He was originally recommended for the I.D.S.M. but this was down-graded to a C.-in-C. 's Commendation Card by the Corps Commander. Slim then raised this to an M.M.

71 M.M.'s to the 14th Punjab Regiment, 1939-45.