yes the gurkhas were truly great soldiers
Just a minor correction Torny: ". . the gurkhas
are truly great soldiers . . " The Gurkha Regiment is still in existence today and serving both in Iraq & Afghanistan.
and another minor correction
If i'm right in thinking the Gurkhas were more of an extension rather than part of the British army
Sorry, but The Gurkha Regiment has been a
part of the British Army for nearly 200 years. Moreover, as a regiment, they have won more VCs than any other regiment within the British Army.
As for the Polish contribution during WW II: I was based at RAF Northolt for a few years and can confirm that their contribution is acknowledged in the form of a memorial at the south- east corner of the base adjacent to the A40.
In principle, I have nothing against Polish nationals joining the British forces. As very few Gurkhas can actually speak English - they rely on senior NCOs & Officers to translate instructions - I don't see the inability to speak English as an impediment to joining-up