Pride of place at Bara Khana
NJ Ravi Chander
I grew up listening to stories about World War II from my uncles, granduncles and grandparents who served in the war. My paternal uncle Major P Sampangi Raju’s unit, 12 Field Company of the Madras Sappers, was among the first to go overseas and distinguish itself on the battlefield.
In October 1939, the 12 Field Company joined a combat unit in Egypt. The soldiers’ versatility and adaptability were evident as they built camps and hutted accommodation and initiated defence works. They took part in the encounter with the Italians at Sidi Barrani and were engaged in water supply, track repair, mine lifting and obstacle demolition. The operation in Sudan, as part of the Fourth Infantry Division, highlighted their adaptability. They provided long-range reconnaissance patrols and did mine and track construction. They participated in the fighting that led to a spectacular victory over the Italian forces and the capture of Keren.
Major Raju was awarded the Indian Order of Merit for his exceptional courage, initiative, skill and devotion to duty in detecting and destroying minefields during this operation. Later, he was decorated with the Indian Distinguished Service Medal and the Vishisht Seva Medal. The MEG Museum and Archives in Bengaluru showcase his medals.
On one occasion, Major Raju and a fellow soldier were riding atop an armoured tank with its hatch open when they came under heavy enemy fire. My uncle dived into the mouth of the tank headlong and escaped with his life. But his mate, who jumped in with his leg down, didn’t survive after being shot in the head.
A little-known incident occurred during the African campaign. Col DN Das, who commanded 12 Field Company in the early 1960s, narrated it: ‘When I first met Chatu (Major Raju), he was the oldest hand in the company. He was a sweeper who enrolled just before the company embarked on the desert campaign and had served in it throughout the war. He enjoyed unusual freedom in his dealings with the men, calling platoon havildars and NCOs by name and participating in all the chores and activities.’
Col Das further said: ‘What caught my attention was that he was the first to be served at the company Bara Khanas. Major Raju told me the story behind this unusual custom. During the African campaign, some sappers were trapped inside a minefield. At nightfall, they were still there, without food or water. Chatu volunteered to carry sustenance to them. The Officer Commanding, Major Cameron, honoured him for his selfless courage. At a Bara Khana held after the war, Major Cameron led Chatu to the table and insisted that he be served first. The tradition continued till the day Chatu left the company, on retirement.’
Being introduced to King George VI in Tunisia was a source of great pride for Major Raju. This royal introduction was a testament to the recognition he received for his exceptional service. Besides, a ground on the MEG campus has been christened ‘Sampangi Circus’ in his honour, further cementing his legacy.