Gurkha Rifleman Vijay Rai

Rifleman Vijay Rai from 2nd Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles was killed in action in Helmand province on 15th October 2011. His unit was protecting a checkpoint in Nahr-e-Saraj district when they were attacked by enemy forces. Rifleman Rai died from gunshot wounds.

Rifleman Rai was born in Bhojpur District, Deaurali, in the East of Nepal in August 1990. After passing the infamous Gurkha Selection, he joined the British Army in December 2008. He was posted to 2 RGR in Brunei when he finished his basic training.

On 14th October, his Company deployed with members of the Afghan Uniformed Police (AUP) and soldiers from the 1 RIFLES to a checkpoint in an area known to have a strong insurgent presence. Next day, Rifleman Rai was in position on the roof of the checkpoint when enemy forces attacked with small arms fire. Rifleman Rai was hit in the opening burst. He was given medical care on the ground and evacuated to Bastion hospital by helicopter but sadly he later died of his wounds.

Rifleman Vijay's family said: "Our family is shocked with the news of Vijay's death in Afghanistan on 15th October 2011. He was the youngest son. He followed his father's and brother's footsteps as his father and elder brother served as Indian Gurkhas and his middle brother is serving with Indian Gurkhas as a Sergeant. He rang his family a day before he was taken away from us.

"He was very proud to be a Gurkha, and died doing his chosen job. His father and family members are very proud of him."

Repatriation of Rifleman Vijay Rai will take place on Thursday 27th October 2011