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Viscount Slim

The next stage of my “Gurkhas Behind the Lens” project involved Lord Slim, another of the hereditary peers currently serving in the House of Lords.  He is a significant character within the Brigade of Gurkhas; not least because he is the son of Field Marshal Slim who led the forgotten (14th) Army in Burma.

LCpl Suman's portrait of Viscount Slim
LCpl Suman’s portrait of Viscount Slim

 

He was educated at the Military College in Dehra Dun in India (I visited there in 2012), and from there (in 1944) he joined 6th Gurkha Rifles.  He has fascinating stories to tell ranging from mule handlers taking on the characteristics of their mules to recovery from dysentery.  He subsequently served with great distinction in the SAS.

Viscount Slim and LCpl Suman "swinging the lamp"
Viscount Slim and LCpl Suman “swinging the lamp”

Lance Corporal Suman Shrestha joined me for this shoot – he serves with the Queen’s Gurkha Signals based in Bramcote and understands his photography well.  He was a cracking accompaniment to the shoot and I think has a great future as a photographer, should he finish being an excellent soldier!

Viscount Slim and LCpl Suman with FM Slim's statue head
Viscount Slim and LCpl Suman with FM Slim’s statue head

The mutual respect between Suman and Lord Slim was obvious – a really enjoyable day!

The cast head of FM Slim for statue at Whitehall outside the MOD
The cast head of FM Slim for statue at Whitehall outside the MOD
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