KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 21

An unknown World War II soldier was laid to rest with full military honours in Arezzo, Italy, on Thursday, with a bearer party from the Gurkhas carrying him to his final resting place.

The remains of the soldier were recently discovered in a shallow trench in a forest in Alpe di Catenaia near Subbiano, Italy. Research by the Ministry of Defence's Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre (JCCC), known as the 'MOD War Detectives', with support from The National Army Museum, concluded he most likely served with the 20th Brigade of the 10th Indian Infantry Division, which included Gurkha units, and was involved in action in early August 1944.

Tracey Bowers, MOD War Detective, said it was a privilege to work with the Gurkha Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Support Battalion and to highlight the Gurkhas' contribution during the Italian campaign. 'Although it was impossible to name this casualty, we are pleased he has been given a full military burial, laid to rest and honoured,' she said.

The burial comes against the backdrop of the Allies' 1943–44 advance through Italy, following the capture of Sicily and the fall of the Gustav Line, including Monte Cassino. The mountainous regions of the Apennines, where the casualty was found, were key battlegrounds as the Allies pushed toward the Germans' final defensive position on the Gothic Line.

Gurkha soldiers played a significant role throughout the Italian campaign, recognised for their ability to fight in difficult mountainous terrain. They suffered heavy losses and earned two Victoria Crosses for acts of exceptional bravery.

Captain Tej Bahadur Gurung of the Royal Gurkha Rifles said he was honoured to take part in the service: 'His sacrifice echoes through history, and we proudly uphold his legacy of courage and loyalty that defines the Gurkha spirit.'

The JCCC considered DNA testing to determine the soldier's ethnicity, but the condition of the remains made a full profile unlikely.

The service was led by The Reverend (Captain) Timothy Watts, who emphasised the lasting importance of remembering fallen soldiers. 'We honour one unknown soldier today... They gave their tomorrows for our today,' he said.

Claudia Scimonelli, the CWGC's Country Manager in Italy, said: 'It's not often a Commonwealth casualty is reburied at one of our cemeteries in Italy, so it is especially moving to see this soldier laid to rest with full military honours today. It has been an honour to represent the Commission and lay a wreath on its behalf. Although his identity remains unknown, we will care for his grave at Arezzo War Cemetery - alongside those of his comrades - in perpetuity.'