Chindit Memorial, London

Origins and Purpose of the Chindit Memorial

The Chindit Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to the Chindits, a unique British-Indian special forces unit formed during World War II. Created under the leadership of Major General Orde Wingate, these soldiers conducted daring long-range penetration operations behind Japanese lines in the Burma Campaign of 1943 and 1944. The memorial honors their courage, sacrifice, and the strategic impact they had on the Allied war effort in Southeast Asia. It also commemorates Wingate himself, who died on active service in Burma in 1944.

Design and Symbolism

Designed by architect David Price and unveiled in October 1990 by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, the memorial features a tapering 4-meter (13-foot) pillar of Portland stone resting on three red granite steps. Atop the pillar is a bronze sculpture of the Chinthe, a mythical guardian lion from Burmese temple lore, symbolizing protection and vigilance. The Chinthe emblem was adopted as the badge of the Chindit forces, linking the memorial’s design deeply to their identity.

Inscriptions and Honored Heroes

The front of the memorial bears an inscription commemorating all who served in the Chindit expeditions, alongside the Chindit badge on a blue enamel background and their motto, “The boldest measures are the safest.” The monument lists the four Chindit soldiers awarded the Victoria Cross—the highest British military honor for valor—namely Major Frank Blaker, Captain Michael Allmand, Lieutenant George Albert Cairns, and Rifleman Tulbahadur Pun. The sides of the memorial enumerate the various army units that took part in the campaigns.

Tribute to Major General Orde Wingate

The rear face of the memorial is dedicated exclusively to Major General Wingate. It features a blue plaque with his portrait and a famous quote by Winston Churchill describing him as “A man of genius who might well have become a man of destiny.” The inscription also references Wingate’s influential role in the formation of the Israel Defence Forces, stemming from his earlier service in the British Mandate of Palestine.

Location and Historical Recognition

Situated in Victoria Embankment Gardens near the Ministry of Defence headquarters, the Chindit Memorial occupies a prominent position among London’s war memorials. In August 2020, marking the 75th anniversary of VJ Day and just before the memorial’s 30th anniversary, it was designated a Grade II listed building, recognizing its historical and cultural significance and ensuring its preservation.

Legacy and Wider Commemoration

Beyond London, the Chindits are remembered at other sites, including a memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum in England and one at Hurlburt Field in Florida, USA, which celebrates their cooperation with the US 1st Air Commando Group. The London memorial remains a poignant reminder of the harsh jungle warfare, extraordinary endurance, and strategic daring that defined the Chindit campaigns during World War II.