Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Rifleman

Unit:

6th Rajputana Rifles, Indian Army

Awarded on:

April 19th, 1945

Recommendation:
"At Sadwingyi, on 30th December 1944, Rifleman Khuda Dad was a member of the leading section of a platoon due to launch an attack on the enemy position. At 'H' hour, as the leading section rose to the attack a mortar bomb landed in the midst of them killing one man and wounding five others. Rifleman Khuda Dad, realising that his wounded comrades were lying in the open, under enemy fire, seized his section's Bren gun, the Bren No.1 being amongst those wounded and alone charged the enemy position. He eventually took up his position within twenty yards of the enemy and covered the evacuation of his wounded comrades with his Bren gun and by throwing hand grenades into the enemy position. His complete disregard for his own safety and his selfless devotion to duty was of the highest order."

Originally recommended for the 'immediate' award of the Indian Distinguished Service Medal but downgraded to the Military Medal by General Slim, commanding the 14th Army.