NAM.1996-08-382-11

Photograph of a Nigerian soldier of the Munchi tribe from Benue Province, in Burma, 1944-1945 (c). Despite the extreme hardships they endured during their service in Burma during 1944-1945, West African soldiers were renowned for their ability to maintain a cheerful disposition in the face of adversity. In a report made to the Commander-in-Chief West Africa, Major-General Woolner, commander of 81st West African Division, praised his troops morale and commitment as follows: ‘It is impossible to express in words my gratitude to them for their irrepressible cheerfulness under all circumstances, or for their unfailing and enthusiastic support whatever I asked of them.’ From an album of 36 photographs compiled by Captain E B Mee (later Major), Royal Signals, 81st West African Division, Burma, 1944-1945

World War Two, Far East (1941-1945)