. VC Pun first Nepali to receive Guard Of Honour By Nabin Pokhrel LONDON, July 5 - Victoria Cross winner Tul Bahadur Pun was awarded a “Guard of honour” on Thursday when he landed at London’s Heathrow Airport. This is the first time that a Nepali citizen has received the honour from the British Defense Ministry. Hundreds of Nepalese dressed in traditional attire were waiting eagerly for VC Tul Bahadur Pun to arrive at the airport. “A farmer from Myagdi is getting the honour which is only given to the heads of state,” Padam Bahadur Gurung, the chairman of the Gurkha Ex-Servicemen's Organization (GAESO) said, “This is really an honour not only to a single person but also for his country. It has made Gorkhalis proud.” Colonel of the Brigade of Gurkhas, B. G. David Hayes along with two other officials of the Queens Gurkha Orderlies and one chief of Staff in no.2 uniform awarded Pun the ‘Guard of Honour’. “As soon as Pun arrived at the airport, he was welcomed with garlands, one of the officers who awarded VC Pun said. He was taken to VIP lounge by Kernel Hez from the airport. “He was tired, and not in the mood to talk. So he drank some soft drinks. It was followed by a photo session,” the officer said. After resting for a few minutes, Pun was taken to nearby Renaissance Hotel. Due to the security arrangements, there was no permission for everyone to enter the special room. So, the programme was organized at the hotel where hundreds of Gurkhalis, their families and other British nationals thronged. “I’m a son for poor farmer and I’m overjoyed to receive such a great honour. Now I wish only if I can also receive medical treatment,” a visibly tired 84-year old VC Pun said. But Pun despite being exhausted from such a long journey spoke to media persons. “But there are many brave fighters who suffered much more than I did during the war. I request the British government and the people to permit them to come and settle here in Britain.” Pun is suffering from high blood pressure, gastric, hearing problems, and impaired vision. Pun, however, also thanked all those who ran a campaign to help him. Pun joined British Army in 1940 and fought in Burma. He won the Victoria Cross for bravery while fighting against the Japanese troops. However, the British Embassy turned a blind eye to his selfless service and had earlier rejected his visa request despite his service. The efforts and campaigns of GAESO and HWO and Co. Solicitors, and a media campaign by the Daily Mirror helped to put pressure on the British government to recognize and award Pun’s unflinching bravery and selfless service. .