The inauguration programme was attended by MLA, Bijoy, Koijam, government’s chief whip MLA, Mangi Babu, GOC 57 mountain division, GS Hooda, Maj. Gen. RM Singh, Assam Regiment, VSM, AVSM and top government officials including chief secretary, DS. Poonia.
It was on this day in 1944 that the soldiers of the first battalion of the Assam Regiment through their gallant action displaying sheer tenacity and dogged determination faced the might of Japanese 31 Division single handedly at Jessami, in the first battle on Indian soil, said an official statement. Adding its magnificent strengthening of the defences at Kohima and finally turning the tide of war.
It further said that the Assam Regiment adoring a badge depicting Rhinoceros comprises soldiers from the North Eastern States and is known for the fighting acumen.
It recalled that the regiment was raised on January 15, 1941, the fledgling first battalion of the Assam Regiment, baptized in fire at Jessami went on to win six battle honours including Jessami and the theatre honour of Burma. Terming it an unparalleled achievement it said that the (late) Maharaj Kumar Priya Barta Singh, the erstwhile Chief Minister of Manipur, had served with the regiment during the Second World War.
