Turban vs. Helmet-I

In the early days of World II (1939-1945) the Sikh Regimental Center,then known as 10th Battalion the Sikh Regiment,was stationed in Nowshera (now in Pakistan), when I got enrolled in June 1940.I recollect that Maj. Gern Kilroy (who had earlier commanded its No: 4 Company as a Captain) was deputed by the Army HQ (then called General HQ) to visit the Training Center to convince and persuade the Sikh soldiers being drafted to the European War Zone, to wear helmets (even over their turbans ) to protect themselves from sustaining head injuries.The entire gathering opposed the idea.Ultimately he came forward with a bet that let any one soldier accompany me to the battle field where heavy shelling is going on. If that person yet refuses to wear a helmet, I will reward him with Rs. 100 and in case he then wares it, he will pay me Rs.1 only for losing the bet. ( In those days a soldiers monthly salary was Rs.16 only).He was astounded to see that all the listeners raised their hands, in acceptance of the challenge. He left the stage with a smile and submitted his findings to Army HQ, where the idea was nipped in the bad for good.

– Gurbachan Singh Bedi,Ottawa,Canada.

 — withGen A S Dhillon.