Prince Charles pays tribute to Gurkha soldiers' courage and bravery in Afghan war

Washington, Jan 28 (ANI): Prince Charles has paid tribute to the Gurkha soldiers who lost their lives while fighting in Afghanistan, and also presented medals to the critically injured ones during their combat operations in that country.

Charles presented campaign medals to members of 1st Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles (1RGR) who recently returned from six months in Helmand Province, the Scotsman reports.

While addressing theses soldiers at the parade ground at Sir John Moore Barracks in Folkestone, Kent, the Prince of Wales praised their bravery, saying that their courage and contribution has made Afghanistan a much safer place.

"I know only too well that at the end of the day it is your unwavering will power and determination to get on with your lives that sees you through. You are without doubt a shining inspiration to us all and we can only wish you the speediest of recoveries," he added.

However, he lamented over that fact that progress was achieved in Helmand at a "terrible cost" as 16 members of 1RGR's wider battle group were killed during the deployment from April to November last year and 110 wounded. (ANI)